Retail Real Talk: Don’t Be Afraid of Downtown
Let’s talk about something I hear all the time: “Downtown isn’t for me.”
Listen—I get it. Not every business is built for downtown energy. But don’t count yourself out too quickly. Yes, it depends on your product and the city, but with the right strategy, downtown could be your goldmine.
Here’s the deal: You have to know your customer and your concept.
If you’re a destination retailer where easy-access parking is non-negotiable, downtown may not be your best fit. But if you’re a grab-and-go, a bodega, a juice bar, a boutique café, or anything that thrives off foot traffic—don’t sleep on downtown.
There’s space for every kind of retailer in the heart of the city, but success depends on being smart with your setup—not just signing a lease because the skyline view is pretty. You can absolutely make money downtown… just don’t take on more square footage than you need or can truly activate.
Here are 3 things to seriously consider before opening in any downtown space:
1. Foot Traffic vs. Drive-Up Access
Downtowns are walkable ecosystems. If your business depends on convenience and impulse buys, that’s your playground. But if your customers are more likely to drive and linger, you’ll need to evaluate parking, drop-off zones, and peak hours.
2. Right-Sizing Your Space
Do not—and I repeat—do not overextend on square footage. Downtown rent isn’t cheap, and every unused corner is a cost center. Be efficient. Optimize for function over fluff. That small space can still deliver big results if it’s well-designed and operationally tight.
3. Be Part of the Community
Downtown customers are loyal to local. Get to know the rhythm of the neighborhood—city workers, residents, tourists, students. Sponsor local events. Partner with nearby businesses. When you show up for the community, they’ll show up for you.
Bottom line?
Downtown isn’t scary—it’s strategic.
And if you play your cards right, it can be a high-traffic, high-return hub for your retail brand. Let’s stop sleeping on the city core and start activating it—one square foot at a time.
With Love, Grit and Gratitude,
Vividly Vivian