Five years ago, predictions about the future of brick-and-mortar retail were uncertain. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life for consumers and business owners, and even before that, the rise of online shopping and mobile commerce had already begun to shift consumer behavior. Today, however, the outlook for physical retail in Nevada is increasingly positive.
Retail Space Fills Up
Many consumers still enjoy shopping in person. While e-commerce remains strong, Nevada shoppers have access to a wide variety of retail options across the state.
"Somewhere between dire predictions of shuttered shops and forever empty retail properties, and the reality of Nevada’s currently bright retail landscape, the vacancy rate for existing retail properties has shrunk," says Jennifer Rachel Baumer at Nevada Business.* "It’s down to the lowest it’s been in about 15 years, or since the Great Recession threatened the very existence of retail. Everything from freestanding buildings with drive-throughs in neighborhood shopping centers to big box-anchored centers is in demand.
“Las Vegas experienced a significant increase in positive retail space absorption in fourth-quarter 2024, following eight quarters of minimal movement, with a total of 619,000 square feet absorbed,” according to Liz Claire, Principal at Avison Young. This quote was originally published in the May 2025 issue of Western Real Estate Business and republished by REBusinessOnline.** “This surge was primarily driven by major developments, including the completion of the 500,000-square-foot BLVD retail project, which saw strong pre-leasing activity from prominent tenants like Adidas, H&M, Lululemon, and In-N-Out Burger. Sustained high demand lowered the vacancy rate by 40 basis points from the previous quarter, further solidifying Las Vegas as a leading retail market.”
Consumers Value the In-Person Shopping Experience
Many early predictions underestimated the human element of shopping. Consumers often want to see, touch, and try products before making a purchase. While online and mobile shopping offer convenience, they do not meet every retail need. Some shoppers enjoy engaging with staff, asking questions, and discovering items they didn’t know they wanted. In-store experiences still provide a level of connection and spontaneity that digital platforms cannot fully replicate.
Supporting Small Businesses
Shopping in person also supports small, local businesses. While many have online presences, they may not have the resources to maintain them as robustly as larger retailers. Visiting these businesses in person often provides the best experience and helps strengthen the local economy.
"Small-scale, locally owned businesses create communities that are more prosperous, connected, and generally better-off across a wide range of metrics," says Sustainable Connections.*** "When we buy from independent, locally owned businesses, rather than national chains, a significantly greater portion of our money is then cycled back through our local economy—to make purchases from our friends’ businesses, to aid our neighbors in need, and to support our local farms—ultimately strengthening the base of our whole community."
Independent bookstores, vintage clothing shops, artisan food markets, and specialty retailers are thriving throughout Nevada. Many cater to niche interests and offer goods that are unique and appealing to shoppers looking for something different. In 2025, many consumers are mindful about where they spend their money and prefer to support businesses that align with their values and communities. Brick-and-mortar stores offer a sense of connection that online shopping often lacks. Talking to a store owner or learning that a product was made locally can carry more emotional weight than clicking a “buy now” button.
Big Retail Still Draws Crowds
Large shopping centers across the state also offer convenience and variety. These centers serve not only as retail hubs but also as social and recreational spaces. Beyond shopping, visitors come for dining, entertainment, and community events. Families can run errands and grab a meal, while friends meet for coffee and browse stores. Tourists often include shopping in their itineraries between other activities.
According to Claire, Las Vegas retail saw significant foot traffic.** In the Gas Stations and Convenience Stores category, Terrible’s led with 4.3 million monthly visits. In the Fast Food and Quick-Service Restaurants category, McDonald’s recorded 3.8 million monthly visits. The Grand Canal Shoppes ranked highest among shopping centers with 1.6 million monthly visitors. Walmart led superstores with 4.3 million monthly visits.
In Northern Nevada, retail growth is also strong. Shawn Smith, Executive Vice President at Kidder Mathews****, notes:
“Grocery stores, department stores, and warehouse-style retailers are extremely active. They’re targeting gaps in the market (Spanish Springs, South Reno, Northwest Reno), and their presence often attracts additional fast-casual, sit-down, and quick-service restaurant tenants. We’re also seeing significant growth from dental operators like Aspen Dental and Pacific Dental, as well as fitness brands ranging from boutique yoga to Planet Fitness.”
Nevada Retail Remains Resilient
Nevada’s retail sector has shown resilience through the rise of online shopping and the challenges of a global pandemic. Now, more than two years after the pandemic was officially declared over, retail is thriving. Shoppers have more choices than ever, and that’s a positive sign for both consumers and communities.
* https://nevadabusiness.com/2025/07/lets-go-shopping-retail-in-nevada/
** https://rebusinessonline.com/las-vegas-retail-outperforms-national-trends