Vacancy rates for Belgian retail properties reach record levels

Despite years of decline, the vacancy rate for commercial properties in Belgium reached a new record high in 2025: 11.9% of properties stood vacant. However, this is mainly due to closures in the hospitality sector.

Years of vacancy

According to market researcher Locatus, 11.9% of retail properties were vacant at the end of the year, compared to 11.2% at the start of 2025. This brings the vacancy rate to its highest level since measurements began in 2008. The increase marks a clear reversal of the trend after several years of decline.