That Retail Property Guy

In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall examines new FRS 102 accounting standards set to impact UK and Irish retailers from January 1, 2026, considering the challenges of transitioning existing leases to the new reporting method, the options available for doing so, and the potential impact on annual accounts. For Retailers with Leases, this episode offers valuab...

New FRS 102 accounting rules: Retailers, Are You Ready? In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall reminds retailers of the upcoming changes in Accounting Standard FRS 102, which takes effect on January 1, 2026.  He discusses the impact retailers' leased assets, the complexities of calculating lease liabilities for the Balance Sheet, and specifically this epis...

Understanding Landlord Competency in Lease Renewals In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall explores the legal competency of landlords under the 1954 Landlord and Tenant Act, as usual from the tenant's perspective. He discusses renewal rights under the 1954 Act, with potential consequences for tenants who are not in occupation for business or when dealing w...

The Vital Role of Accounts Payable in Retail Property Management In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall explores the intertwined roles of estate management & accounts payable (AP) for retailers as tenants. Highlighting the indispensable role of AP as Gatekeepers of Profit in controlling property outgoings, Gary underscores the shared responsibility of asset...

 Tech Evolution in Retail Property Management: From Floppy Disks to AI   In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy', host Gary Marshall reviews (and laughs at) the evolution of tech and its impact on retail property management and accounts payable over the past 40 years. He recalls early computers, and software like Lotus 1-2-3 and WordPerfect, and contemporary tools like Excel, Power...

User Clauses and Planning Uses for Retail Locations - with Gary Marshall Join Gary Marshall in this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy' as he delves into the complexities of user clauses in commercial leases, and the planning legislation that also impacts Use. Gary discusses why User Clauses impact tenant mix and the broader retail environment, about planning changes, and what to look...

Understanding Deeds of Variation in Commercial Leases  In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' hosted by Gary Marshall, we take an in-depth look at Deeds of Variation - legal documents that allow modifications to existing commercial leases. Common reasons for these variations include adjusting rent review frequencies, allowing structural changes, removing break clauses, and modify...

The Life Expectancy of Retail Locations. Join Gary Marshall in this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy' as he explores the life expectancy of retail locations and the implications for developers, tenants, shoppers, and communities. Is the end nigh at 35 years? Prompted by contrasting news articles, Gary delves into the factors affecting the longevity of maturing retail spaces. With not...

That Retail Property Guy discusses the different spaces in retail leases, with differing user permissions, different costs per square foot/metre, and different physical constraints. Consider how a retailer might have opportunities to make changes or alterations to improve cost/sales ratio of  a fixed lease - and the pitfalls of making changes without the right documentation.  Optimise the leased a...

A nudge for retailers - Preparing for FRS 102: New Financial Reporting Changes for Retailers wef 1st Jan 2026  In this re-published episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall discusses the upcoming changes in accounting rules under FRS 102, which will be mandatory from January 1, 2026. These changes significantly impact how lease liabilities must be reported on balance she...

Join Gary Marshall in this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy' as he delves into the intricacies of completion statements in retail property management. Learn about the importance of getting these financial summaries correct, the common pitfalls to avoid, and why attention to detail can make a significant financial difference. This episode is packed with insights, all aimed at ensuring...

The Essential Guide to Archiving Tenant Documents explores the importance of archiving critical property documents for retail tenants.  From old-school title deeds and legal documents tied up with red tape to modern electronic storage options, the podcast emphasises the value of keeping comprehensive, accessible records. The host shares insights on how well-maintained archives can provide a compet...

Modernising Retail Leases: Operational, Legal and Environmental Considerations In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall discusses the changes in lease agreements over the past 25 years, including requirements for new clauses covering pandemics and environmental impact (so-called green leases). It emphasises the importance of careful negotiation and professional a...

Understanding VAT on Lease-Related Charges and Property Costs: Essential Insights for Retail Tenants In this episode, we delve into the complexities of VAT (Value Added Tax) on property leases. We examine the current VAT rates in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, and discuss which goods and services are subject to VAT. We look at the implications for landlords, especially those who opt to charge...

Challenges of Subletting and Assignment: Key Considerations for Retailers What can tenants do to mitigate the financial burdens of surplus properties including various strategies like subletting, underletting, and assignment in the UK retail property market? Join That Retail Property Guy' as host Gary Marshall discusses strategies for tenants to dispose of surplus leases. Gary explains the im...

Preparing for FRS 102: New Financial Reporting Changes for Retailers  In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall discusses the upcoming changes in accounting rules under FRS 102, which will be mandatory from January 1, 2026. These changes significantly impact how lease liabilities must be reported on balance sheets for businesses in the UK and Republic of Ireland....

The Impact of Theft and Vandalism on Retail Buildings and Security Measures This episode explores the multifaceted issue of theft in retail environments, beyond common shoplifting concerns. The discussion covers the various types of theft involving building materials and expensive equipment, such as solar panels and EV charger units. Organised criminal activities, seasonal variations and advanceme...

Understanding Commercial Lease Repair and Maintenance Obligations This episode provides an in-depth overview of commercial lease repairing obligations, emphasising the importance of tenants understanding their responsibilities and double-checking them against those of the landlord. It explains the differences between Full Repairing and Insuring (FRI) leases and Internal Repairing and Insuring (IRI...

The Impact of Banning Upward Only Rent Reviews: A Deep Dive In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall explores the UK government's surprising proposal to ban upward-only rent reviews in commercial property leases, a move that could have significant ramifications for tenants and landlords alike. Gary examines the potential benefits and pitfalls, the history of...

Discussing the Upcoming VOA and HMRC Integration and Reimagining Business Rates In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall explores an announcement on the Gov UK website regarding the integration of the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) into HMRC by April 2026. Highlighting inefficiencies within the current business rates system, Gary discusses the potential impacts on...

In this episode of That Retail Property Guy , we shine a light on one of the most overlooked yet essential functions in any retail property operation: Property Accounts Payable . While estates teams focus on leases and landlord relationships, it’s often Property AP that carries out the financial obligations those leases require. But this isn’t standard Accounts Payable. These are high-value, legal...

Navigating Insurance Obligations for Retail and Commercial Tenants In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall explores the often-overlooked complexities of insurance obligations within retail leases. He explains the typical insurance responsibilities that tenants face, including reinstatement, loss of rent, and terrorism coverage, and advises tenants to thoroughly...

Revolutionising Retail Property with E-Billing: A Vision for the Future Gary Marshall, host of 'That Retail Property Guy,' delves into the evolving landscape of the retail property sector as it transitions from traditional paper or imaged invoicing to proper e-billing systems. With countries like Germany, which has legally adopted B2B e-billing, leading the curve, the shift seems inevita...

Navigating Sanctions in Property Letting: New Legal Obligations In this episode of 'That Retail Property Guy,' host Gary Marshall discusses the new legal obligations for UK letting agents effective from May 14, 2025, which require financial sanctions checks on both landlords and tenants. These measures aim to prevent financial crime, safeguard national security and comply with internatio...

Reflecting on 25 Episodes of Retail Property Insights with Gary Marshall In this milestone 25th episode of 'That Retail Property Guy' podcast, host Gary Marshall reflects on the journey that began in January 2025, sharing insights and thanking his audience for their support. Drawing on over 40 years of experience, the podcast offers infotainment, anecdotes and practical advice aimed at i...