According to a Gallup poll, only 3 per cent of adults in the US were using GLP-1 medications for weight loss in 2024. By July 2026, this proportion rose to 11 per cent, and 15 per cent reported having tried a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss at some point. This development indicates a significant shift in consumer behaviour, which could have far-reaching implications for various sectors, particularly retail.
Experts are observing these trends with great interest, as a changed physical constitution of the population leads not only to health but also to economic shifts. The direct impacts on the food and beverage industry are already noticeable, as users of these medications often report reduced appetite and altered preferences. This could long-term lead to a realignment of offerings in the food retail sector.
Shift in Consumer Behaviour
Weight loss through GLP-1 medications typically involves a diminished craving for certain foods, especially sugary and fatty products. This could compel supermarkets and restaurants to reconsider their assortments and menus. Furthermore, there are potential impacts on the clothing trade, as a declining average clothing size could affect demand for specific sizes and fits.
Moreover, it is expected that the changes in body weight induced by GLP-1 medications will go beyond the purely physical aspect, leading to psychological effects that, in turn, influence purchasing behaviour. If people feel more comfortable in their bodies, they might gravitate towards new leisure activities or social engagements, which would then boost demand for corresponding products and services in retail and beyond.
Implications for the Property Market
For FREITAG® Immobilien, these developments are significant, as they influence the valuation and development of retail spaces. Shopping centres and high-street locations must adapt to changing consumer needs. This could mean increased demand for spaces for services, healthcare offerings, or specialised food shops, while traditional fast-food concepts or businesses that rely heavily on impulse purchases may need to make adjustments. The demographic shifts, brought about by the wider use of GLP-1 medications, necessitate careful analysis and strategic planning for investments in the retail sector. Proactive adaptation to these new market dynamics will be crucial for the sustainable success of property projects.
- —Analysis of tenant demand in retail properties for new concepts.
- —Assessment of potential for health and wellness providers within commercial properties.
- —Cross-sector consideration of food and clothing retailers.
- —Strategic planning for a changing consumer base in urban centres.
