There are two categories of retail parks: large retail parks with a surface area of more than 10,000 sq m and those with a surface area of less than 10,000 sq m. The largest ones represent the most attractive retail parks are in prime zones: for example, the Patte d' Oie d' Herblay (95) or the Croix Blanche in Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois (91). Croix Blanche is the largest retail park in Île-de-France with 160 stores and more than 400 fashion, leisure and service brands.

The smallest retail parks are divided into 4 categories according to surface area, number of shops and hypermarket size: large regional centres (80,000 sq m /150 shops), small regional centres, large centres, small centres (20 shops between 5,000 and 20,000 sq m). 

As with shopping centres, investors are looking for a high occupancy rate and quality signage. Two important indicators are monitored: the turnover/sq m and the effort rate. The latter (rent and service charge/revenue ratio) varies according to business segments. If it exceeds 15% in the long term, the sustainability of the business may be compromised. But while shopping centres have higher occupancy rates, retail parks have the advantage of more competitive occupancy costs. Their valuation depends closely on their location and attractiveness.