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The Myrtle Beach region’s continued population explosion showed up in new deliveries and ongoing momentum as the market posted a strong 130,003 square feet of net absorption, according to a Colliers 25 Q1 retail report.

The report said grocery users continue to follow greater year-round residential density, as Aldi and Trader Joe’s both secured new spaces in recent quarters while wholesaler BJs entered the market, opening its first store in the rapidly-growing Carolina Forest area.

It also said the area’s increasingly wealthy, retirement-centric population has begun to attract new types of retail users, with WellCenter leasing strip center space for medical use and fitness tenants remaining active.

According to the report, inflation-adjusted consumer spending saw a slight decline in the first two months of the year as growing economic uncertainty led consumers to cut back, though initial national data indicates growth in March centered around pre-tariff purchases.

Total inventory held steady at 11,496,046 square feet as a new building cycle remains in progress with 156,644 square feet under construction.

Vacancy decreased to 1.74 percent, driven by 130,003 square feet of absorption and availability remains minimal.

Limitations on quality space held rents roughly flat at $21.56 per square foot.