The shopping centre asset derives its value from its ability to generate customer traffic. In order to develop its attractiveness in the eyes of consumers, it combines an entertainment offer (restaurants, cinemas, etc.) with retail. The quality of these diverse services is the key to making the shopping centre an attractive asset. As such, these services are intrinsically tied to its value (digitalisation, concierge, parking, etc.). 

The presence of major national and/or international brands also helps attract customers: FNAC, for example, or large clothing and accessory franchises, play a role as consumer magnets. It is also crucial to ensure that vacancy rates are kept to a minimum.

To meet these objectives, the trend is towards establishing shopping centres in the city centre and developing premium services.

Investors expect a high occupancy rate. They are also attentive to the quality of signatures (national and international brands). Two other indicators must also be considered: the turnover/m² and the effort rate. The effort rate corresponds to the ratio of rent to expenses/sales. It varies significantly from one sector of activity to another. The sustainability of the business is generally considered to be compromised if it exceeds 15% over the long term. Shopping centres have the highest of effort rates.