Industry insights: Ainsworth Property joins LFRA, explores the future of Large Format Retail
From planning reform and property taxes to evolving retail formats and investment opportunities, A-P’s Zelman Ainsworth sat down with Large Format Retail Association (LFRA) CEO Philippa Kelly for a wide-ranging discussion on the future of Australia’s Large Format Retail sector.
A-P is a specialist retail property advisory business providing retail strategy, leasing, fit-out delivery and commercial property management services. Drawing on almost two decades of industry experience, Mr Ainsworth and his team work closely with landlords, councils, investors and retailers to identify opportunities, create value and deliver successful retail outcomes.
Mr Ainsworth said the decision to join the LFRA reflected the firm’s growing interest in the sector and the significant opportunities emerging across the Large Format Retail market.
“Large Format Retail is one of the most resilient and compelling sectors of Australia’s commercial property market. Low vacancy, strong retailer demand and limited new supply continue to underpin its fundamentals, creating opportunities for landlords, investors and retailers alike.
“As retail formats evolve and retailers look for new ways to reach their customers, we see significant opportunities to work with property owners on leasing strategies, repositioning existing assets and unlocking the potential of new locations.
“Joining LFRA provides us with an opportunity to contribute to the sector, build relationships with its key stakeholders and stay close to the trends and challenges shaping its future.”
A conversation about the future of Large Format Retail
Through A-P TV, Mr Ainsworth interviews leading retailers, property owners and industry figures, sharing insights into the businesses, people and trends shaping Australia’s retail landscape.
His conversation with Ms Kelly explored the evolution of Large Format Retail, the role of LFRA in advocating for its members, and the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.
Topics included planning and zoning reform, property taxes, rising construction costs, limited new development supply and the changing requirements of major retailers.
The discussion also examined international retail trends and lessons from LFRA’s overseas study tours, including its most recent visit to the United States.
“Philippa has played an important role in advocating for the sector and ensuring Large Format Retail has a strong voice in discussions about planning, policy and investment,” Mr Ainsworth said.
“I was particularly interested in understanding how the sector has evolved, the challenges that remain and where the next opportunities for growth may come from.
“What stood out was the depth of work LFRA undertakes on behalf of its members, much of which happens behind the scenes but has a meaningful impact on the industry.”
Recognising the value of industry intelligence
One of the highlights for Mr Ainsworth was LFRA’s Large Format Retail Directory, produced in partnership with specialist retail economics and demand assessment consultancy Deep End Services.
The Directory provides detailed market intelligence on Large Format Retail centres, developments, retailers and industry contacts across Australia. It also includes precinct mapping and analysis of planning and zoning requirements.
For Mr Ainsworth, whose business places considerable emphasis on market intelligence and identifying leasing opportunities, the resource was particularly impressive.
“I’ve been doing this for close to 19 years. I’ve never seen anything as detailed, relevant and helpful as I’ve seen in this book,” he said.
The Directory has expanded significantly over successive editions, reflecting the growth of the sector and LFRA’s ongoing investment in research and industry intelligence. The next edition is scheduled for release in early 2027.
Building stronger industry connections
Mr Ainsworth said joining LFRA was an opportunity for A-P to deepen its involvement in Large Format Retail and contribute its experience in retail leasing, asset repositioning and landlord advisory.
“Retail property is constantly evolving, and the best opportunities often come from understanding what retailers need, where consumer demand is heading and how property owners can respond.
“We’re looking forward to building relationships across the LFRA network, sharing our experience and playing an active role in the continued success of the sector.”
Watch the full A-P TV interview with Zelman Ainsworth and Philippa Kelly on YouTube.
To learn more about A-P, visit www.a-p.com.au.
