Lucknow has cemented its position as a dominant force in the Tier 2 retail landscape, boasting the highest gross leasable area (GLA) of shopping centers among 21 cities in India. This notable achievement is highlighted in a recent research report by Knight Frank India. The comprehensive study, which analyzed 340 shopping centers across 29 cities, revealed that Lucknow has a substantial GLA of 5.7 million square feet for its shopping centers.
This figure surpasses the operational shopping center stock of other prominent cities like Kolkata and Ahmedabad as of 2023, placing Lucknow at a significant 7th position nationally in terms of shopping center stock. Within the context of the 21 Tier 2 cities surveyed, Lucknow stands out with an impressive 18.4% share of the total 30.8 million square feet of GLA. This highlights the city’s robust retail infrastructure and its pivotal role in the regional retail landscape. Knight Frank India’s analysis indicates that Lucknow has achieved a notable shopping center density of 1,439 square feet per 1,000 residents. The city’s operational shopping centers host over 580 retail outlets, with a notable proportion—about 50%—comprising Indian-origin brands.
International brands also constitute a significant portion, reflecting Lucknow’s growing appeal as a retail destination. A spokesperson from Knight Frank India’s Retail Agency commented, “As the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is instrumental in driving economic activity within the state. The burgeoning demand for retail real estate in the city is a reflection of its growing aspirational population. Lucknow’s substantial shopping center density is indicative of its advanced commercial infrastructure, which effectively caters to urban consumer needs.” Lucknow’s dominance in the Tier 2 mall space is a testament to its thriving retail landscape and growing consumer demand. The city’s robust infrastructure, coupled with its strategic location, has made it an attractive destination for retailers and shoppers alike.
