While overall economic growth remains slow, consumers appear to be weathering the storm. This is particularly impressive given the one-two punch of higher taxes and spending cuts facing the countrys consumer base. Retail sales growth, though inconsistent, has generally remained positive. However, these favorable indicators have not translated into significant or consistent absorption of neighborhood and community shopping center space. The limited demand that exists is primarily for smaller units of less than 5,000 sq. ft. while landlords continue to have a more difficult time leasing larger boxes.
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