Economic, Technology
John Bleasby
January 20, 2021
What is to become of vacant and under-utilized retail and commercial spaces across Canada created by the impact of COVID-19? It’s an unavoidable dilemma for owners and landlords and one that affects the building industry.
“When do you get to the point when you realize you need to make a change?” asks Altus Group director Alan Waggoner. In particular, he points to declining cash flows and changing market conditions affecting the success of older assets.
Small businesses are already struggling as government-mandated shutdowns roll across the country once again. However, even big box stores are witnessing a decline in activity. Curbside pickup simply can’t make up for the loss of business when customers can no longer roam the aisles and turn instead to the internet.