Transformation in Retail Real Estate: Insights from the GCSP Congress 2025

Transformation in Retail Real Estate: Insights from the GCSP Congress 2025

GCSP Congress 2025 – Exchange on Lighting Concepts and Urban Development

By Thomas Mark | 16.10.2025

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the GCSP German Council of Shopping Places Congress in Berlin – an inspiring meeting point for the retail real estate industry and everyone who wants to actively shape the future of shopping centers.

Transformation is not a trend, but a necessity

The discussions ranged from honest conversations about the challenges of investments and the so‑called “German Angst” to bold visions for the revitalization of city centers and the sustainable repurposing of large retail spaces. One thing became especially clear: transformation in retail real estate is not optional – it is urgent.

Key Insights from the Congress

• Remake instead of rebuild: As Xin Lu and Ulrich Brinkmann emphasized, we don’t have to tear everything down. Preservation, repurposing, and intelligent redesign are more sustainable and often economically more sensible – an approach that also applies to modern lighting concepts in shopping centers.

Rethinking public spaces: Christoph M. Achammer demonstrated how important people‑centered design is: reclaiming spaces, reducing traffic, and creating real quality of stay – aspects that also play a central role in the planning of Christmas lighting and lighting design.

Digital Darwinism: Livia Rainsberger reminded us that technology is developing rapidly, but emotions, experiences, and real connections remain the strongest tools. Shopping centers must offer what the digital world cannot replace – atmospheric ambiance, inspiring lighting installations, and unforgettable moments.

MK Illumination: Light as a Driver of Change

I am proud that MK Illumination is part of this development – not just as a decorator, but as an active shaper of the future of shopping centers. With tailor‑made lighting concepts for retail real estate, we create emotional experiences, promote quality of stay, and support the sustainable transformation of urban spaces.

Dialogue and Innovation as Keys to Success

The exchange at the GCSP Congress showed: only together can we master the challenges of the industry and design shopping centers as vibrant, attractive places for people. Let’s continue the dialogue and break new ground together!

#GCSP2025 #KLARTEXT #UrbanDevelopment #RetailRealEstate #CustomerCentricity #Transformation #PublicSpaces #Placemaking #MKIllumination