Williamsburg retail pulls ahead as big-time brands move in

WILLIAMSBURG — WILLIAMSBURG CEMENTED ITS LEAD in Brooklyn’s retail market in 2025, accounting for nearly a quarter of boroughwide retail dollar volume as national brands crowded a handful of prime blocks, according to Crain’s New York.

Retail transactions across Brooklyn rose 27% year over year to $678 million, driven by sustained leasing on Bedford and Wythe avenues and North 6th and North 3rd streets.

Brokers say demand is concentrated and self-reinforcing, with brands seeking proximity to each other and to new luxury housing. JLL alone brokered seven Williamsburg retail deals last year, including storefronts for Lululemon, Birkenstock, Patagonia and Mejuri.

Retail growth followed residential momentum, with roughly 8,000 housing units expected over the next five years, many along the waterfront.

Asking rents reflect the pressure: North 6th Street hit about $400 per square foot, among the highest retail rents in the borough.

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