Retail Retold

What does an AI-powered retail organization actually look like?Retail real estate has spent decades trying to optimize speed, scale, and execution. Now AI is forcing the industry to rethink all three.Surfaice Pro is taking this to a different level using mission-critical systems engineering to solve for issues along the store lifecycle, from leasing, through construction, and real estate. Joe Valeri, and Alim Uderbekov, co-founders of Surfaice.pro explain to Chris Ressa where AI is actually gaining traction inside retail organizations and why the operational side of retail may be changing faster than most people realize.Moving beyond AI buzzwords, Joe and Alim are speaking the language of retailers and using practical applications to make the case that the next major competitive advantage in retail won’t just come from merchandising or location strategy. It’ll come from operational speed. The retailers opening stores faster, spotting risks earlier, and making smarter portfolio decisions in real time will separate themselves from the rest of the market.The discussion also gets into the uncomfortable realities surrounding AI adoption: fear inside organizations, skepticism from operators, software fatigue, and the growing pressure executives feel to “do something” with AI before competitors move ahead.One thing becomes clear throughout the conversation: AI in retail is no longer theoretical. The question now is who adopts it early enough to benefit from it and who waits too long.What You’ll HearWhy AI adoption in retail is moving faster than most people realizeHow retailers are cutting manual work out of lease administrationThe difference between generic AI tools and retail-specific systemsWhy speed is becoming a competitive advantage in store developmentHow AI can identify project delays before they happenThe real conversation retailers are having internally about AI and jobsChapters00:01 — Meet the co-founders of Surfaice.proJoe Valeri and Alim Uderbekov explain how they’re building AI for the full store lifecycle.02:48 — Why retail became the perfect AI battlegroundWhy the speed and scale of store development made retail an ideal fit for AI adoption.04:27 — The data retailers are sitting onHow leases, contracts, and construction documents are becoming operational intelligence.05:51 — From site selection to store closeoutBreaking down what “store lifecycle management” really means.07:01 — The three things every retailer wantsSpeed, risk reduction, and smarter operational decision-making.10:31 — AI overload is already hereChris challenges the flood of AI tools entering the industry.16:35 — Retail’s AI tipping pointHow close the industry may be to large-scale adoption.20:25 — Why adoption is harder than it soundsThe internal hesitation, budget conversations, and fear surrounding AI.23:56 — The fear factor nobody wants to talk aboutHow companies are thinking about jobs, efficiency, and operational change.25:37 — Inside Surfaice.pro’s real-world rolloutHow JD Sports is already using AI to streamline operations.29:54 — Why generic AI won’t cut itThe difference between broad AI tools and retail-specific systems.35:30 — What AI could unlock for retailA bigger conversation around creativity, efficiency, and operational scale.37:40 — The cost of standing stillWhy waiting too long on AI may become a competitive risk.

As ICSC Las Vegas approaches, one theme is expected to rise above the rest: dealmaking.On the surface, the story looks simple. Retail fundamentals remain strong. Vacancy is near historic lows. Construction costs continue to limit new supply. Capital is returning to the sector.But beneath that headline, the real conversation begins.Demand is building from every direction. Buyers have capital to deploy. Retailers want to grow. Owners with strong-performing assets know what they hold. That dynamic is set to shape conversations across the convention floor, inside booths, and behind closed doors throughout ICSC Las Vegas.Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono explore how underwriting has evolved. In prior cycles, many deals leaned on cap rate compression and favorable financing. Today, value creation is increasingly tied to rent growth, leasing strategy, traffic, tenant performance, and net operating income.Chris calls it a return to the age of the operator, where execution matters more than financial engineering.While headlines may focus on rates, politics, or broader uncertainty, sentiment inside retail real estate remains constructive. Investors want to buy. Retailers want to expand. Operators are looking to create value.The question heading into Las Vegas is simple:Where are the deals?What You’ll HearWhy strong fundamentals are creating more competition, not more dealsHow the shift back to fundamentals is changing how deals get doneWhy execution is replacing financial engineering as the driver of valueHow retailers are approaching growth with more disciplineWhere AI fits into the conversation and why it’s still earlyWhat’s really driving sentiment heading into ICSCChapters00:07 – setting the stage for ICSC Las VegasFraming the biggest themes expected to drive conversations in Las Vegas02:00 – strong fundamentals, limited supplyWhy low vacancy and high demand are creating a supply crunch03:47 – capital is building, pressure is risingIncreased allocations to retail and the challenge of finding deals05:14 – why retail is still winningComparing retail to other asset classes and where it stands today06:40 – the bid ask gapWhy buyers and sellers are still not fully aligned on pricing08:04 – underwriting is changingThe shift away from cap rate compression and financial engineering10:03 – the return of the operatorWhy execution and fundamentals are back at the center12:17 – how retailers are thinking about growthDisciplined expansion and smarter decision making13:13 – geopolitical noise vs real impactWhy macro headlines are not driving decision making17:19 – AI enters the conversationWhere AI is showing up and where it is still early23:41 – what will actually dominate ICSC Las VegasWhy it all comes back to dealmaking

Insights into evolving market conditionsRetail real estate isn’t defined by one trend right now.It’s being shaped by a mix of forces all hitting at once.Two of CBRE’s top retail leaders, Laura Barr and Scott Schnuckel, join Chris Ressa to dive into what’s actually happening across the industry, from leasing and retailer behavior to talent, data, and the broader market environment.These are the questions shaping commercial real estate right now.What’s driving today’s leasing activity. Why space is tighter than it looks. How retailers are thinking about growth and market share. And what’s changing in how they expect to be supported.There’s also a deeper look at what’s happening behind the scenes.Smaller teams doing more. A talent pipeline that hasn’t fully recovered. And the growing role of data and technology, including how AI is beginning to shape decision making across the industry.At the same time, the fundamentals of the sector are holding up.Capital is still flowing. Demand is still there. And retail continues to position itself differently compared to other asset classes.But that doesn’t mean things are simple.This is a wide ranging conversation about where the industry stands today and what could shape where it goes next.What You’ll HearWhy retailers are fighting hard to protect market shareHow new uses are keeping shopping centers vibrantWhat’s really driving leasing activity right nowWhy space is tighter than it looksThe growing talent gap across the industryHow AI and automation could reshape retail costsChapters00:01 – Inside CBRE’s Retail Leasing LeadershipHow Laura Barr and Scott Schnuckel are shaping retail leasing at scale.02:18 – Moving Beyond Transactional BrokerageWhy the industry is pushing toward true advisory.04:15 – What Retailers Expect NowHow data and strategy are changing the game.08:22 – What Transformation Really Looks LikeFrom talent to execution, what actually drives change.15:40 – The Shift in Store Openings and ClosuresWhy both are down—and what it means.19:08 – The Fight for Market ShareWhy retailers aren’t giving up top-line revenue.24:27 – The Talent Gap in Retail Real EstateA workforce challenge that’s not going away.26:43 – Why Capital Is Flowing Back to RetailWhat’s making the sector investable again.30:16 – The New Shopping Center ModelHow tenant mix is redefining retail.32:41 – Where the Pressure BuildsCosts, competition, and the need to adapt.37:00 – AI and the Future of Retail OperationsHow automation could reshape the industry.42:28 – Why Data Is the Real AdvantageThe shift from tools to actionable insights.43:41 – Rapid Fire: Retail Favorites and NostalgiaExtinct brands, recent buys, and shopping habits.

A disciplined pipeline and strategic site selection approach are enabling growth despite limited supplyRetail real estate didn’t change as much as people thought. The fundamentals never left. What changed is how precisely you have to execute them.Jim Lampassi, Senior Vice President of Real Estate & Construction at Academy Sports + Outdoors, has spent 45 years in site selection and development, helping build brands across Marshalls, Petco, and now one of the fastest-growing sporting goods retailers in the country. Today, Academy has grown to a wide network of 300+ stores across 21 states, with a clear path for continued expansion.What stands out isn’t just the scale. It’s the discipline behind how that growth happens.This market is defined by constraint. High occupancy. Limited new development. Fewer deals to chase. That pressure is forcing better decision-making. For Academy, growth isn’t about finding opportunities. It’s about building them. That means creating a pipeline larger than the goal, leaning into relationships with boutique developers, and being willing to do deals that require more effort to get across the finish line.There’s also a shift that’s no longer up for debate.E-commerce didn’t replace stores. It made them more important. Physical locations drive awareness, influence customer behavior, and increase digital demand. When stores close, online sales don’t fill the gap. They drop. The strongest retailers understand the connection and build around it.At the center of it all is a simple idea. Value wins.In an inflationary environment, customers are more selective. Retailers that consistently deliver accessible price points without sacrificing quality are the ones that keep traffic and loyalty. It’s not a trend. It’s a requirement.For owners and operators, the takeaway is clear. The easy deals are gone. Growth now depends on discipline, relationships, and long-term thinking.This isn’t about finding space. It’s about earning it.What You’ll HearWhy retail fundamentals still matter after 45 yearsHow Academy Sports is growing in a high-occupancy marketWhy building a bigger pipeline is critical to hitting targetsHow boutique developers are unlocking new dealsWhy retailers are creating sites instead of finding themHow stores are driving e-commerce, not competing with itWhy value remains core to Academy’s strategyHow retail real estate creates jobs at scaleWhy industry relationships still drive opportunityWhat it takes to expand with discipline todayChapters00:01 – Jim Lampassi’s 45-Year Retail JourneyA 45-year career across major retail brands and what shaped it.02:27 – Why Retail Fundamentals Still HoldThe fundamentals that still determine whether a deal works.03:03 – Inside Academy’s Expansion StoryFrom tire shop to 300+ stores and expanding footprint.04:21 – Why Value Drives Retail SuccessHow pricing strategy defines long-term success.05:40 – Retail as a Job Creation EngineRetail as a job creation engine across industries.08:16 – The Role of Industry RelationshipsWhy being active in ICSC changes careers and outcomes.10:27 – Retail’s High-Occupancy Reality95% occupancy and what it means for landlords and tenants.12:12 – Finding Deals in a Constrained MarketBoutique developers, incentives, and building your own pipeline.15:09 – Developing the Next GenerationHow the next generation is entering the industry.18:02 – Rethinking Real Estate Team StructureIn-house vs. brokers and what actually works.20:06 – Why Stores Still Drive DemandWhy physical retail is still driving digital demand.22:31 – Building Marshalls in Puerto RicoOpening 11 stores in one day and what it took to get there.26:56 – Academy’s Disciplined Growth PlanWhite space, expansion plans, and long-term positioning.29:14 – The Future of Retail SupplyWhy retail supply constraints may stick longer than expected.

A disciplined approach to product, experience, and real estate is fueling a fast-growing food and beverage conceptPalmetto Superfoods didn’t grow by chasing trends. It grew by challenging them.Hessam Shirmohammadi, co-founder and COO, built the brand around a simple idea: if the product is real and the experience is intentional, customers don’t just visit, they come back daily. What started in San Francisco in 2019 is now a fast-scaling concept with 18+ locations, expanding across California and into Texas, with a clear path toward national growth.The differentiator isn’t just açaí. It’s how Palmetto thinks about retail.Instead of treating real estate as a necessity, they treat it as a strategic lever. Location isn’t just about traffic, it’s about community alignment. College markets, fitness-driven consumers, and dense residential pockets consistently outperform because they reinforce habitual use.At the same time, Palmetto is leaning into a model that most brands avoid: no two stores look the same. While others scale through uniformity, they scale through experience, keeping operations consistent but making each space feel unique. It’s harder to execute, but it builds stronger brand connection.There’s also a bigger play unfolding.Palmetto isn’t positioning itself as just a food and beverage operator. With CPG products in development and a long-term goal of going public, the brand is building toward a lifestyle platform that extends beyond four walls.For retail real estate owners and operators, the takeaway is clear: food and beverage isn’t just filling space anymore, it’s becoming the draw. And the concepts winning today are the ones creating repeat behavior, not one-time visits.This isn’t about smoothies. It’s about building a brand that people integrate into their daily lives.What You’ll HearWhy food and beverage is becoming the new anchor in retailHow repeat behavior drives real growthWhy location strategy is about community, not just trafficHow college markets consistently outperformWhy second-generation space accelerates expansionWhy experience matters more than efficiencyHow strong brands build daily habits, not one-time visitsWhere AI actually improves operationsChapters00:02 – Introduction and backgroundHessam shares his upbringing, early career, and path into entrepreneurship.04:31 – What is Palmetto SuperfoodsBreaking down the concept, product differentiation, and early growth.05:26 – Scaling the brandFrom one location to 18+, including expansion into new markets.06:35 – Long-term visionPlans for national growth, CPG, and building a lifestyle brand.08:05 – Unit economics and real estate strategyHow store size, location, and performance vary across markets.09:30 – Origin storyHow a Brazilian café and authentic açaí sparked the concept.13:05 – Day-to-day as COOWhat leadership looks like in a fast-scaling brand.15:02 – Using AI and systemsHow technology is improving efficiency and decision-making.16:34 – choosing Sacramento (UV)Why college markets and demand signals drove site selection.21:37 – Site selection strategyWhy second-generation spaces are a key growth lever.23:14 – Differentiation in retailWhy every store is intentionally designed to feel different.26:16 – Nostalgia and retailA conversation on extinct retailers and emotional connection to brands.

A different background, and a different lens on retail real estateCareers aren’t linear. And the best ones usually evolve.Anya Wolf didn’t start in retail real estate. Her background was in art, including studio work, art history, and hands-on experience in galleries and education. She was fully immersed in a creative path and exploring what that future could look like.But over time, she gained clarity.The path forward in the art world is long and highly specialized. Then a loss within her family brought everything into focus. It created urgency and a new perspective on the business side of things. That combination led her to make a decision: step into DLC and understand the investments and platform she had grown up around.What followed wasn’t a fast track.She started in a traditional due diligence role. Managing files, answering questions, and supporting transactions. A typical entry point, but one that gave her real exposure to how deals actually get done and how properties are evaluated.That foundation mattered.It built a practical understanding of the business, especially around tenant behavior. One of the biggest takeaways is that retail decisions aren’t driven by what consumers want, they’re driven by economics. Rents, incentives, and demographics dictate outcomes, even when demand exists elsewhere.Now, her focus is evolving again.After building a strong internal foundation, she’s shifting outward, developing relationships, expanding her network, and bringing new perspectives back into the organization.Retail remains strong, but interest rate volatility and broader uncertainty are creating friction. Historically, that’s where opportunity shows up.And for the next generation inside a family business, that matters.Because this isn’t just about maintaining what was built. It’s about understanding it, evolving it, and ultimately creating your own lane within it.What You’ll HearWhy nontraditional career paths can lead to stronger long-term growthHow starting in due diligence builds a real understanding of the businessWhy retail decisions are driven by economics, not consumer demandHow tenants actually evaluate locations and choose marketsWhy asking questions accelerates growth faster than pretending you knowHow to build your own identity inside a family businessWhere the next generation creates value inside an existing platformChapters00:02 – Introduction to Anya WolfBackground, role at DLC, and how she got here01:14 – From art to real estateStarting in art and realizing the limitations of that path03:24 – The turning pointFamily dynamics and the decision to enter the business09:34 – First role at DLCWhat due diligence actually looks like day-to-day10:48 – Learning the business from scratchHow real estate really works behind the scenes14:50 – Accelerating growth early onThe power of asking questions and not pretending18:36 – Shifting from internal to external growthWhy building a network is the next phase20:19 – State of the retail marketStrength, disruption, and interest rate pressure25:16 – Building your own identityNavigating a family business and carving your own lane29:28 – Rapid fireSkills, retail nostalgia, and real-life habits

What if the biggest World Cup winners aren’t the teams?The next major tailwind for retail real estate isn’t coming from policy, rates, or supply it’s coming from global demand.The World Cup is set to drive one of the largest concentrated waves of consumer activity the U.S. has seen in years. But this isn’t just about packed stadiums. It’s about what happens around them and long after.We’re looking at more than a million visitors, many of whom wouldn’t have come to the U.S. otherwise. That means new dollars flowing into restaurants, retail corridors, hotels, and local businesses across 16 host markets. And unlike typical tourism cycles, this demand is compressed, intense, and highly visible.Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono break down what this really means for cities, operators, and investors.But the real opportunity isn’t just the short-term spike.Major global events historically reshape markets. Cities invest in infrastructure, improve accessibility, and elevate their global profile. That exposure doesn’t disappear when the games end it attracts future tourism, business investment, and population growth. We’ve seen it with the Olympics. There’s no reason to believe this plays out differently.There’s also a behavioral shift happening at the local level. Consumers are finding new places, trying new operators, and forming new habits. A great experience during a high-energy moment can turn into long-term customer loyalty.Not every benefit will be evenly distributed. Some markets will see concentrated gains, others more diffuse impact depending on geography, walkability, and where people stay versus where they play.But zoom out and the signal is clear:More people. More spending. More reasons to engage with physical retail.For operators and investors paying attention, this isn’t just a moment it’s a setup.What You’ll HearWhy the World Cup is a major driver of retail spendingHow international tourism fuels local retail marketsWhere the impact goes beyond stadiums and game dayWhy infrastructure investment creates long-term valueHow global events reshape cities over timeWhy consumer behavior shifts matter for operatorsHow impact varies across different host citiesWhere spending actually lands within each marketWhat determines short-term vs. long-term gainsWhy this is a meaningful tailwind for retail real estateChapters00:04 — setting the stageOpening the conversation and framing the scale of the opportunity01:27 — why this event is differentComparing global events and the magnitude of the World Cup02:51 — the tourism surgeBreaking down international visitors and incremental demand03:49 — spending beyond the stadiumHow consumer behavior expands retail impact05:12 — where the real opportunity isMoving beyond food and merch into broader retail effects06:34 — infrastructure and long-term valueWhy cities invest—and why it matters after the event09:16 — the economic numbersBillions in projected output and what that signals10:17 — from one-time visit to repeat customerHow events create long-term retail loyalty12:59 — which markets benefit most?Debating winners across the 16 host cities18:57 — what could go wrong?Pressure-testing assumptions and downside scenarios20:17 — where does the money actually land?Understanding geographic dispersion of spending23:46 — final takeawayWhy the overall impact is overwhelmingly positive

Are you solving the problem, or just applying?How people get hired and what companies actually value is shifting fast.Cary Beale, one of the most active recruiters in retail real estate at Poline Search Partners, sees the disconnect every day. Companies want people in the office. Candidates want flexibility. Everyone says they want the “best talent,” but the definition of that talent isn’t aligned.That tension is reshaping hiring outcomes across the industry.This conversation goes beyond surface-level career advice and gets into what actually moves the needle when decisions are being made. Reputation still compounds, and early habits follow you longer than people think. Job hopping still raises red flags, not just about loyalty, but about decision-making. And communication remains one of the most underrated differentiators in a crowded candidate pool.There’s also a clear message on what doesn’t work: generic answers, safe positioning, and trying to be who you think a company wants. That approach blends in, and blending in is the fastest way to get overlooked.Instead, the candidates who stand out are the ones who understand the real problem behind the role and position themselves as the solution. They do the extra work. They show initiative before they’re asked. And they create moments that are memorable, not just “better,” but different.AI is starting to enter the conversation, but it hasn’t replaced the fundamentals. Hiring is still human. Judgment still matters. And the gap between average and exceptional candidates is still wide.If you’re hiring, this sharpens how to evaluate talent. If you’re interviewing, it’s a reminder that small decisions, how you show up, how you communicate, how you differentiate, have outsized impact.Because in a competitive market, being qualified isn’t enough. Being remembered is.What You’ll HearWhy the office vs. remote divide is slowing hiringHow reputation and job movement shape long-term outcomesWhy communication and clarity make or break candidatesHow to position yourself as the solution, not just an applicantWhat actually separates candidates who get offersWhere AI is starting to impact hiringChapters00:01 — Cary Beale’s path from operator to recruiterFrom owning a restaurant to leading recruiting in retail real estate.03:07 — Shifting from deals to talent placementHow industry experience translates into recruiting success.04:08 — Inside the recruiting businessWhat roles are in demand and how many placements actually happen.04:48 — The remote vs. office disconnectWhy companies and candidates are fundamentally misaligned.06:26 — Why early careers need the officeThe long-term disadvantage of skipping in-person experience.08:50 — AI and hiring: real impact or hype?Where AI is entering the conversation — and where it isn’t.10:34 — Tip #1: reputation compoundsWhy early career behavior follows you longer than expected.11:43 — Job hopping and decision-making riskWhat frequent moves signal to employers.14:02 — Tip #2: communicate clearlyWhy most candidates fail to define what they actually do.18:47 — Tip #3: be authenticWhy trying to fit the mold can cost you the job.20:55 — Tip #4: solve the problemHow to position yourself as the answer companies need.22:28 — Tip #5: be differentWhy standing out matters more than being slightly better.

Can a niche hobby become a viable retail concept?The golf industry quietly experienced one of the biggest participation surges in decades during the pandemic. Millions of people picked up clubs for the first time, and the ripple effects are still reshaping the business of golf, from course operations to the rise of indoor golf concepts.This Retail Retold Replay revisits Chris Ressa’s conversation with Brian Hilko, owner of Golf Factory in Mount Prospect, Illinois, and a tenant at DLC’s Randhurst Village.After two decades as a PGA professional running golf courses, managing operations, and teaching the game, Hilko recognized something most operators overlooked: traditional golf experiences were often transactional and uninspiring. The game people loved deserved better.So he built something different.Golf Factory blends serious golf technology with an approachable, family-friendly environment. Powered by TrackMan simulators used by professional golfers, the concept allows players of all skill levels to practice, compete, and play year round without the intimidation factor many associate with traditional golf settings.Hilko shares the entrepreneurial journey behind launching the business, from identifying the opportunity during the COVID golf boom to building the space with an SBA loan, a partner, and a lot of hands-on work that saved nearly $1 million in construction costs.The conversation also highlights an emerging category within retail real estate: experiential concepts that draw consistent traffic and complement surrounding tenants rather than compete with them. Indoor golf has become a compelling example, delivering entertainment, community engagement, and repeat visits.Looking back now adds helpful perspective. The themes discussed, experiential retail, niche operators, and passion driven entrepreneurship, remain highly relevant as landlords and operators continue to search for concepts that drive traffic and create community.For retail real estate professionals, operators, and entrepreneurs, this replay offers a sharp look at how a passion for the game became a viable retail business.What You’ll HearWhy the pandemic accelerated golf participation - and how millions of new players changed the business of the sport.The problem with traditional golf experiences - and why Hilko believed the industry often underserves players.Indoor golf’s growing role in the sport - combining professional-grade technology with accessibility for casual players.How TrackMan technology is transforming training and entertainment - bringing tour-level analytics to everyday golfers.The entrepreneurial leap from PGA professional to business owner - and recognizing when the opportunity was right.How Hilko financed the business - combining an SBA loan, a partner, and a detailed business plan built from real operational data.Saving nearly $1 million on buildout costs - by rolling up sleeves and completing major portions of the construction personally.Why location strategy mattered - choosing a retail development with strong surrounding traffic and no direct competition.How experiential tenants complement retail centers - driving visitation that benefits surrounding restaurants and shops.Chapters00:06 — Brian Hilko’s background in golfA PGA professional explains how two decades in golf operations led to entrepreneurship.01:26 — Why golf surged during the pandemicChris and Brian discuss the massive participation wave and why the game resonates with new players.02:31 — The appeal of indoor golfHow technology and convenience make the sport accessible for busy people and families.04:14 — Recognizing a business opportunityHilko explains the moment he decided to launch his own golf concept.06:22 — Building a better golf experienceWhy Golf Factory was designed to remove the intimidation factor of traditional golf.08:06 — Financing and launching the businessHow a network, SBA financing, and careful planning made the concept possible.10:25 — Technology that powers the experienceTrackMan simulators bring professional-grade data and gameplay to indoor golf.13:03 — The economics of the buildoutHow the team kept the total buildout under $1 million through hands-on construction.14:36 — Revenue projections and early performanceHilko discusses expectations for growth and seasonality in the business.15:43 — Finding the right retail locationWhy Randhurst Village offered the right combination of demand, traffic, and opport

What did Adam and Chris get right about retail in 2024?Back in 2024, Chris Ressa sat down with DLC CEO Adam Ifshin in Las Vegas ahead of ICSC to talk about a retail market that was already showing unusual strength. Looking back from 2026, that conversation reads less like commentary and more like an early signal of where open-air retail was headed.At the time, Adam laid out a clear case: open-air retail fundamentals were outperforming the broader narrative. Traffic, sales, occupancy, and rent had all moved above pre-pandemic levels, even while capital markets remained strained. That disconnect was the core tension then, and it remains one of the most important dynamics to understand now.What stands out even more in hindsight is how early DLC was in identifying the structural forces behind that strength. Chris and Adam discussed years of underbuilding, limited new supply, rising construction costs, and the steady removal of retail space for other uses like apartments, healthcare, and self-storage. In 2026, those pressures have not disappeared. If anything, they have become harder to ignore.The conversation also reinforced two themes that have continued to shape the market: the durability of value retail and the strength of suburban, secondary, and exurban demand. Long before those ideas became consensus views, DLC was investing around them. Looking back, the logic still holds. Consumers continue to prioritize value, retailers continue to chase the right space, and owners continue to operate in a market where quality supply is limited.This conversation matters now because it captures a moment when disciplined operators were already seeing what others were still debating. For retail real estate professionals, investors, and retailers trying to understand how we got here, this is a sharp look at the thinking that helped define the last two years of the market.What You’ll HearOpen-air retail fundamentals are still too good to ignore - How traffic, sales, occupancy, and rent have all moved past pre-pandemic highs, reinforcing the strength of the sector.Capital markets diverged from fundamentals - How rising interest rates and tighter credit created volatility in financing even while retail performance strengthened.Strong fundamentals matter more than cheap capital - Why disciplined operators prefer a market with solid demand and constrained capital rather than easy money and weak assets.Supply constraints are reshaping retail - How 15 years of underbuilding, rising construction costs, and redevelopment have reduced available retail space.Value is always in fashion - How retailers like Walmart, TJX, and other value-focused brands continue to win with consumers across income levels.Suburban and secondary markets are gaining momentum - How migration, affordability, and remote work have pushed growth beyond major urban centers.Retailers are expanding into smaller markets - How shifting demographics and income growth have opened new opportunities for national tenants.Smart retailers move early on space - How limited supply is pushing tenants to secure locations now before rents climb further.Chapters00:00 — Live from Las Vegas, before the market fully caught upChris opens the conversation with Adam Ifshin from ICSC week in Vegas.01:55 — Why DLC published “Too good to ignore”Adam explains the thinking behind DLC’s 2024 white paper and why the timing mattered.02:35 — The fundamentals were already telling a different storyTraffic, sales, occupancy, and rent had all pushed past pre-pandemic highs.04:45 — The big disconnect: strong assets, stressed capital marketsAdam breaks down why financing conditions were not reflecting what operators were seeing on the ground.08:57 — Why strong fundamentals beat cheap capitalChris asks which environment matters more, and Adam makes the case for discipline over easy money.12:05 — Could outside capital really move into retail?They discuss whether groups from other asset classes could compete in open-air retail.15:34 — Rates, cap rates, and timing the marketAdam explains why buying into strong fundamentals matters more than waiting for perfect conditions.17:41 — What constrained supply really meant long termChris and Adam talk through the deeper implications of limited space and rising retailer demand.20:54 — Why new development was still far from a real answerAdam outlines why replacement cost and labor constraints were holding back new retail construction.25:50 — Why value retail was never just a trendAdam explains why value has always been central to DLC’s view of the consumer.31:54 — The consumer story behind the retail storyAdam makes the connection between consumer health, policy, and retail real estate performance.33:43 — Why suburban and smaller markets were gaining strengthDemographic shifts, remote work, and affordability made these markets more compelling.42:52 — What smart retailers were expected to do nextAdam lays out why decisive tenants would move early as the supply-demand imbalance continued.

Is 2026 about to be the biggest year for retail real estate in decades?Retail real estate doesn’t move in a vacuum. It moves when consumers have a reason to act. 2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest demand environments in decades because three massive global catalysts are converging at the same time: the World Cup, the Winter Olympics tailwind, and America’s 250th anniversary.Major live events compress consumer hesitation. They create urgency. They create moments. And moments drive spending.The data already supports this. Global events generate massive marketing exposure, elevated brand awareness, and increased physical activity in retail corridors. But the real impact isn’t just tourism, it’s domestic behavior. People travel, gather, host, celebrate, and spend in ways they otherwise wouldn’t. Retailers, restaurants, and physical destinations become the center of those moments.At the same time, the fundamentals of retail real estate remain exceptionally strong. Supply is constrained. Leasing velocity is accelerating. Tenants are competing aggressively for physical space, recognizing that stores do more than produce four-wall profit, they lower customer acquisition costs and drive digital growth.The narrative that retail is “technology resistant” completely misses the point. The physical store isn’t fighting technology, it’s enhancing it. Retailers are discovering that their digital performance improves when they open physical locations. Stores are no longer just revenue centers; they are strategic growth engines.This shift has fundamentally changed the leasing environment. Landlords are no longer chasing tenants to fill space. Tenants are racing to secure locations before competitors do.Retail isn’t surviving. It’s expanding. 2026 could be remembered as the year physical retail reasserted its full strategic value, not just as a place to transact, but as a critical platform for brand growth, customer acquisition, and long-term market share.What You’ll HearWhy global events are creating a 2026 retail tailwind - How the World Cup, America 250, and stacked spending moments are driving incremental tourism, domestic travel, and real-world consumer activity.How live moments accelerate spending behavior - Why major events compress hesitation and push consumers from waiting to acting.The leasing velocity surge happening right now - What rising deal volume, stronger economics, and tenant expansion signal about retail confidence.Why retailers are in a land grab for physical space - How constrained supply has shifted the market and intensified competition for prime locations.Why physical stores power digital growth - How brick-and-mortar lowers customer acquisition costs and makes omnichannel performance more efficient.Why retail isn’t tech resistant—tech needs retail - The strategic shift from clicks versus bricks to clicks because of bricks, and what that means for long-term real estate value.Chapters00:01 - Why I’m bullish on 2026The macro retail real estate fundamentals and why the outlook is stronger than the narrative suggests.02:08 - The olympics spending tailwind has already startedHow marketing exposure and brand promotion drive spending beyond the event itself.04:25 - Why the world cup will be a massive retail catalystTourism, domestic travel, and gathering behavior will drive incremental retail demand.06:36 - America 250 and the stacking of spending catalystsPatriotism, celebrations, and event sequencing create sustained spending momentum.08:51 - Leasing velocity is accelerating rapidlyReal-world leasing activity confirms strong tenant demand and economic confidence.10:41 - The myth of technology-resistant tenantsWhy framing retail as resistant to technology misses the real strategic shift.10:59 - Why stores drive digital growthPhysical locations lower customer acquisition costs and enhance overall brand performance.11:54 - The tenant land grab has begunRetailers are aggressively securing space before competitors lock in key locations.13:09 - Why physical retail is more valuable than everThe strategic role of stores is expanding beyond traditional revenue metrics.

Why is grocery-anchored retail still the most resilient asset class in 2026?Grocery-anchored retail continues to prove why it remains one of the most durable and coveted asset classes in commercial real estate. Despite persistent narratives around online grocery, delivery economics, and shifting consumer behavior, grocery real estate entered 2026 from a position of strength, not disruption.Sales growth in 2025 outpaced inflation, signaling more than just higher food costs. Consumers are spending more inside grocery stores, cooking at home, and prioritizing value over convenience. While online grocery sales continue to rise, they now represent roughly 17 percent of total spend, a level that feels elevated and increasingly close to a plateau. Delivery fees, reverse logistics, and thin margins reinforce a fundamental truth: for most shoppers, value wins. The tactile nature of grocery shopping, selecting produce, choosing cuts of meat, and controlling quality creates a level of stickiness unmatched in other retail categories.From a real estate perspective, grocery stores remain exceptional traffic drivers and increasingly valuable anchors. Grocers are reinvesting heavily in their locations on a steady cadence, often without landlord contributions, strengthening centers while protecting long-term performance. That reinvestment comes with expectations, as landlords are pressured to keep common areas and surrounding spaces competitive. When a grocer leaves, outcomes become highly market-specific, ranging from strong backfill demand to full asset repositioning depending on competition, capital availability, and consumer density.Specialty grocers are having a moment, and it is not confined to coastal markets. Ethnically diverse concepts, fresh-focused operators, value-driven formats, and curated regional brands are scaling nationally. These retailers are transforming historically local shopping behaviors into repeatable, high-performing models that attract both loyal core customers and curious new shoppers.Even Amazon’s retreat from its Fresh concept underscores the sector’s resilience. Grocery remains intensely competitive, operationally complex, and deeply rooted in experience, service, and value. The takeaway is clear: brick-and-mortar grocery is not just surviving. It is reinforcing its role as one of retail real estate’s most reliable foundationsWhat You’ll HearWhy grocery continues to anchor retail real estate - A clear-eyed look at why grocery remains one of the most stable, high-performing asset classes despite years of disruption headlines.How consumer spending is shaping the grocery sector - Why sales growth outpaced inflation and what that reveals about value, at-home consumption, and evolving shopping behavior.The real story behind online grocery growth - A candid discussion on delivery costs, margins, and why convenience has limits in a value-driven category.What makes grocery shopping so “sticky” - The human behaviors, from produce to protein, that keep consumers returning to physical stores.Why grocers keep reinvesting in brick-and-mortar locations - How ongoing store reinvestment strengthens centers and creates long-term benefits for landlords.What happens when a grocery anchor leaves a center - Why backfill, repositioning, and outcomes vary dramatically depending on market dynamics.The rise of specialty and ethnic grocers nationwide - How curated concepts, fresh-focused formats, and regional operators are scaling across the country.What Amazon Fresh got wrong about grocery - Lessons from Amazon’s retreat and why technology alone cannot replace value, service, and loyalty.Why grocery real estate still wins - A closing perspective on durability, frequency, and why grocery remains foundational to open-air retail.Chapters00:00 – Grocery’s staying power in retail real estateWhy grocery continues to stand out as one of the most resilient and reliable anchors in open-air retail.02:10 – Consumer spending trends shaping grocery in 2025How sales growth outpaced inflation and what it says about value, at-home consumption, and shopper behavior.04:25 – Online grocery growth and the reality of delivery economicsWhy rising costs, thin margins, and logistics challenges are slowing the push toward full digital adoption.07:15 – The stickiness of the in-store grocery experienceFrom produce to protein, the physical elements of grocery shopping that keep consumers coming back.09:50 – Grocer reinvestment and what it means for landlordsHow consistent store reinvestment strengthens centers and raises expectations for the rest of the asset.12:30 – When a grocery anchor leaves a shopping centerWhy outcomes range from strong backfill demand to full asset repositioning depending on the market.15:10 – The rise of specialty and ethnic grocery conceptsHow fresh-focused, curated, and ethnically diverse grocers are scaling across the U.S.18:05 – Why Amazon Fresh failed to break throughLessons from Amazon’s exit and what it reveals about loyalty, value, and grocery fundamentals.21:35 – What grocery real estate gets rightA closing look at frequency, durability, and why grocery remains foundational to open-air retail.

What does it take to win a competitive retail LOI today?Retail leases are moving fast again, and in East Tennessee, they are moving faster than most people think is possible.Chris Ressa talks with Lindsey Barden, founder of Dark Horse CRE, a tenant-rep-only broker covering Knoxville, Chattanooga, and the Tri-Cities. Her view from the ground is simple: vacancy is extremely low, the best spaces trade off-market, and retailers are routinely battling multiple LOIs for the same box. In the past six months, Lindsey says 80-to-90 percent of her deals have been competitive, forcing brands to show up ready to commit, pay closer to asking, and cut through internal red tape.Landlords are prioritizing certainty and speed, especially in second-generation space. The tenants winning deals are the ones asking for less work and fewer dollars from ownership, tightening timelines, and moving from “perfect protections” to more balanced lease terms.The proof point is a Crunch Fitness anchor lease that went from discovery to signed lease in roughly two weeks. No traditional LOI. Basic terms handled by email. Architects and contractors brought in immediately. Approvals happening across time zones. A two-level layout that required creative planning, not a cookie-cutter prototype. Two motivated parties decided the deal mattered, and executed like it.If you want a takeaway: stop treating leasing like a slow process. Treat it like a race. Speed wins.What You’ll HearWhy East Tennessee is one of the tightest retail markets in the country — and what low vacancy really means for tenants trying to expand.What 80 to 90 percent competitive deal flow looks like in practice — multiple LOIs, limited second-generation space, and constant off-market conversations.How landlords are prioritizing certainty over creativity — why minimal TI, faster approvals, and fewer contingencies are winning deals.What retailers must change internally to compete — consolidating corporate review, accelerating decision-making, and committing earlier.How a Crunch Fitness anchor lease went from tour to signed in 14 days — no traditional LOI, creative problem solving on a two-level box, and approvals happening across time zones.Why speed is the ultimate differentiator in today’s leasing environment — and how motivated parties can compress timelines dramatically.A thoughtful look at retail saturation vs. market expansion — coffee, chicken, gyms, and how to separate durable concepts from passing trends.The mindset shift required to win in 2026 retail real estate — treat leasing less like a negotiation marathon and more like a sprint.Chapters00:00 – Meet Lindsey BardenA 20-year tenant rep veteran shares her journey from Virginia brokerage to founding Dark Horse CRE in East Tennessee.08:15 – Why East Tennessee Is So CompetitiveLindsey breaks down Knoxville’s low vacancy, off-market deals, and why most spaces now trade with multiple LOIs.12:00 – Retailers Must Move FasterCorporate approval timelines are shrinking as brands realize that hesitation means losing the deal.16:05 – What Landlords Want Right NowMinimal TI, fewer contingencies, and faster rent commencement are outweighing bells and whistles in lease negotiations.25:45 – Are We Over-Retailed?Coffee, chicken, and gyms spark a debate about saturation versus untapped market share.33:50 – Trends vs. Durable ConceptsA discussion on fads, long-term winners, and how evolving brands survive shifting consumer demand.38:10 – The 14-Day Anchor DealA Crunch Fitness lease goes from tour to signed in just two weeks through speed, creativity, and alignment.41:30 – No LOI, Just ExecutionBasic terms handled by email and architects brought in immediately compress what normally takes months.44:00 – The Power of Two Motivated PartiesWhy urgency and shared intent—not secrets—made the accelerated deal possible.45:15 – Final Takeaway: Speed WinsRetail leasing is no longer a slow grind; the brands that move decisively are winning the best spaces.

What do long-term franchise operators know that others miss?Longevity in retail is earned, not engineered.Chris Ressa and David Habas, Managing Partner at HK Enterprises, unpack what it actually takes to build and operate a service retail business over decades, cycles, and constant change.Habas brings nearly 30 years of franchising experience and a rare dual lens as both an operator and someone who came up through commercial real estate. That perspective shows up throughout the discussion, from how Supercuts’ footprint and service model have evolved, to why tracking customer counts still matters more than chasing top-line growth alone. He shares real AUV benchmarks, candid insights on post-COVID demand shifts, and why price increases only work when paired with consistency and execution.The conversation scales when Habas walks through a pivotal Boston relocation, moving from an iconic, high-rent location to a smaller, smarter space around the corner and growing the business in the process. The takeaway is simple and sharp: great operators don’t fight change, they design around it.For retailers, franchisees, and landlords alike, this episode reinforces a core truth of open-air retail: durable brands are built by people who think long-term, understand real estate, and know how to adapt without losing the customer.What You’ll HearWhy longevity in franchising comes from following the system, not trying to outsmart itHow the salon industry has evolved post-COVID and what “butts in the chair” really tells youReal AUV benchmarks and what separates top-performing locations from the rest of the systemThe tradeoffs between organic growth, acquisitions, and relocations when space is limitedA first-hand look at relocating an iconic Boston store and growing sales while lowering rentHow strong landlord relationships create flexibility during moments of disruptionWhy service retail still wins on consistency, efficiency, and customer trustLessons from building a multi-decade business with a long-tenured leadership teamChapters00:00 – Building a Franchise Before Franchising Was CoolDavid Habas shares his path into franchising and how HK Enterprises grew into one of the largest Supercuts franchise operators over multiple decades and markets.04:45 – How the Salon Industry Has Actually ChangedFrom oversized footprints to tighter, more efficient stores, Habas breaks down how customer needs, services, and layouts have evolved.07:20 – Post-COVID Reality: Traffic, Frequency, and RevenueA candid look at customer behavior shifts, why frequency matters more than headlines, and how the business is tracking recovery.10:30 – AUVs, Scale, and What Performance Really Looks LikeHabas shares real average unit volumes and explains why location, execution, and consistency separate top operators from the pack.12:30 – Growth When Space Is Hard to FindOrganic growth, acquisitions, and smart relocations all come into play when prime retail real estate is limited.18:30 – Turning a Flagship Crisis into a WinA high-rent Boston location forces a move, leading to a smaller footprint, lower occupancy costs, and stronger long-term performance.23:40 – The Operator–Landlord RelationshipWhy not all tenants are created equal and how traffic-driving service retail adds value beyond rent.29:30 – Franchising, Technology, and Playing the Long GameHabas explains why he would choose franchising again and how tech, systems, and discipline keep brands relevant.32:00 – The Next Generation QuestionA candid conversation about family businesses, succession, and what it takes to sustain a multi-generation operation.

What Does It Mean to Think Like an Owner in Property Management?Retail real estate is not won in boardrooms. It is won in the field. Chris Ressa sits down with Tine Helton, Regional Property Manager at DLC, to talk about the work that actually keeps open-air retail centers running across Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. From tenant relationships to infrastructure issues, Tine walks through what it means to own the day-to-day when performance, responsiveness, and consistency are the difference between a good center and a great one.Tine’s path into property management started on the leasing side, where she learned how a deal turns into a real, operating business. That curiosity led her into operations, professional certifications through IREM, and a leadership role focused on getting better at the craft, not just holding the title. The conversation digs into why education, ethics, and peer networks still matter in a business that moves fast and demands real accountability.At DLC, Tine shares what stood out most: a culture that backs its people and expects them to take ownership of outcomes. The result is a practical look at how strong operators build better properties, stronger tenant partnerships, and long-term performance in open-air retail.What You’ll HearWhy the best property managers operate like owners, not order-takersHow leasing knowledge becomes an operational advantage once the deal is signedWhat IREM certifications actually change in day-to-day decision-making and leadershipHow to turn education and peer networks into real career leverageWhat strong culture looks like when performance and accountability matterHow Midwest open-air centers stay competitive through consistency, speed, and follow-throughChapters00:00 – The Operator’s SeatChris introduces Tine Helton and sets the stage for a conversation about what it really takes to run retail centers, not just lease them.01:00 – From Leasing to LeadershipTine explains how her early work supporting leasing teams shaped the way she thinks about operations, tenants, and long-term performance.02:45 – Choosing the Harder PathA look at why she moved into property management and embraced the challenge of being accountable for everything that happens after the deal is done.04:00 – The IREM AdvantageTine breaks down how certifications, ethics, and peer networks through IREM sharpened her decision-making and accelerated her career.07:30 – Turning Education into OpportunityHow investing in professional development led directly to promotions, leadership roles, and industry recognition.12:45 – Joining DLC and Thinking Like an OwnerWhat stood out about DLC’s culture and why ownership, accountability, and support matter in daily operations.15:40 – Growth Without a CeilingTine shares why continuous learning, new disciplines, and community involvement keep her pushing forward.17:45 – Defining a Successful YearWhat success looks like when it is measured by team performance, process improvement, and being a leader others can count on.

What Signals Say 2026 Could Outperform a Strong 2025 for Retail Real Estate?2026 might be the year retail real estate finally turns momentum into pricing power. Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono open with a confident call: next year will outperform an already-strong 2025, and the data is starting to line up behind it.Holiday sales climbed roughly 4 percent year-over-year, outpacing inflation and reinforcing a simple truth: consumers keep spending, even when sentiment wobbles. The conversation breaks down the “K-shaped” economy, where higher-income shoppers drive discretionary growth while value-focused and necessity-based retail remains resilient across every income bracket.The hosts point to sharper inventory discipline and steadier supply chains as quiet margin drivers, giving retailers more control over pricing and fewer forced discounts. On the real estate side, fewer major bankruptcies and limited space givebacks are tightening supply, setting the stage for a more landlord-driven market. The result: upward pressure on rents, stronger net operating income, and potential value gains as interest rates ease.They also look ahead to demand catalysts, from global sporting events and America’s 250th anniversary to a new wave of store openings coming out of late-2025 leasing. While risks remain, from AI-driven job shifts to geopolitical uncertainty, the core bet is clear: tighter supply, resilient consumers, and disciplined operators could make 2026 a defining year for retail real estate.What You’ll HearThe data points behind the call that 2026 tops a strong 2025Why consumer spending keeps winning over sentimentHow the K-shaped economy is reshaping value, necessity, and discretionary retailTighter supply, fewer bankruptcies, and what that means for landlord leverageInventory discipline and supply chains as quiet drivers of pricing powerNOI, rents, and value: how the real estate math is shiftingTraffic catalysts ahead, from global events to a new wave of store openingsThe key risks still in play, from AI disruption to geopolitical shocksChapters00:00 — The Bold Call for 2026Chris and Karly open with a confident prediction that 2026 will outperform a strong 2025 for retail real estate and explain why they’re leading with the conclusion.01:20 — Holiday Sales vs. Consumer SentimentA breakdown of holiday spending growth and why real consumer behavior matters more than surveys and headlines.03:55 — The K-Shaped Economy in RetailHow higher-income and value-focused consumers are shaping different lanes of retail performance across categories.05:55 — Inventory, Pricing, and Margin ControlWhy better inventory discipline and steadier supply chains are giving retailers more leverage on pricing.08:20 — Tariffs, Supply Chains, and StabilityWhat’s changed since early 2025 and why supply volatility feels less like a headline risk for 2026.09:45 — Bankruptcies, Space, and Expansion PressureHow fewer large retail failures are tightening available space and reshaping store rollout strategies.12:10 — The Landlord’s Market and Rent DynamicsA look at how pricing power, tenant improvements, and net effective rents could move in 2026.13:45 — Disposable Income and Category SignalsWhy tax changes, IPO activity, and home furnishings are flashing confidence in the consumer.16:35 — Traffic Drivers and Big Event EnergyFrom the World Cup to America’s 250th, how major moments could translate into real retail foot traffic.20:55 — Risks, AI, and the Black Swan FactorA candid look at job disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, and what could derail an otherwise strong setup.25:20 — NOI, Values, and the 2026 OutlookHow tighter supply, steady expenses, and easing rates could converge to lift property values.27:00 — Final Take: Why 2026 Feels DifferentClosing thoughts on momentum, discipline, and why retail real estate may be entering a defining year.

What Does It Take to Go the Distance in Retail Real Estate Today?Retail real estate in early 2026 is defined by imbalance. In many suburban, open-air markets, demand is overwhelming supply. Five tenants are chasing one quality space. Vacancy is razor-thin. New construction still does not pencil. The result is leverage—and it is shifting.Chris Ressa and Andrew Mahr of Bialow Real Estate dig into how that leverage is actually showing up in deals. Face rents are not always jumping overnight, but economics are tightening through lower tenant improvement packages, higher tenant capital contributions, and tougher negotiations around delivery costs. Retail is repricing—just not always in the most obvious way.The conversation also highlights the growing divide between markets. Urban cores tied to office traffic remain uneven, while suburban lifestyle centers are absorbing demand from retailers with capital, patience, and long-term conviction. Strong operators are choosing to invest more upfront to control fixed occupancy costs over time, especially in junior anchor and specialty formats.A North Miami case study brings the thesis to life. An off-market Wild Fork deal shows how the best sites are no longer “available”—they are unlocked through persistence, relationships, and a willingness to target occupied real estate. The takeaway is simple: in today’s market, waiting for vacancy is passive. Going direct is how deals get done.What You’ll HearHow rising rents are showing up through deal structure, not always through face rateWhy tenant improvement packages are shrinking and tenant capital is coming back into the equationWhat it really means when deals “don’t pencil” in a high-cost, high-rate environmentHow strong retailers are deciding when it makes sense to invest more upfront to control long-term occupancy costsWhy off-market strategies matter more in a low-vacancy worldA real North Miami case study showing how targeting occupied real estate can unlock best-in-market locationsHow landlord-tenant alignment can accelerate expansion and turn single deals into long-term partnershipsChapters00:00 – Welcome and introductionsChris Ressa welcomes Andrew Mahr and sets the stage for a wide-ranging conversation on retail, relationships, and the market.01:00 – Running, resilience, and perspectiveAndrew shares his Boston Marathon journey and why endurance, advocacy, and long-term commitment shape how he approaches business.03:00 – What Bilo Real Estate actually doesA look at Bilo’s role as a national, outsourced real estate department and why deep market familiarity matters.05:15 – Retail in 2026: a tale of two marketsUrban cores tied to office demand lag while suburban, open-air retail faces intense competition and limited supply.07:45 – Why new retail still doesn’t pencilInterest rates, construction costs, and underwriting realities continue to stall speculative retail development.09:30 – Leasing momentum and shifting deal economicsRents are rising—but often through reduced TIs and higher tenant capital, not just headline numbers.12:00 – Who’s winning: strong retailers with capitalWhy the healthiest tenants are choosing to invest more upfront to control long-term occupancy costs.13:30 – Hospitality and wellness as growth categoriesRestaurants, social wellness, and experiential concepts emerge as powerful drivers in mixed-use environments.15:20 – Retail’s changing role in mixed-use projectsHow retail is anchoring hotels and serving as support in residential-heavy developments.16:00 – Off-market strategy in action: North MiamiA Wild Fork case study shows how targeting the best corner—occupied or not—creates opportunity.18:45 – Why “availability” is the wrong starting pointReverse-engineering markets around the best sites instead of what’s listed.21:00 – Relationships over transactionsHow trust between landlords, tenants, and advisors accelerates deals and fuels long-term growth.25:00 – Closing thoughts on partnership and executionA reminder that alignment, patience, and execution—not timing the market—drive success.kM73YTFwizYvpb9vv8GE

What Happens When Strong Consumers, Limited Supply, and Leasing Demand Collide?Retail real estate is not just stable — it is entering a meaningfully better phase of the cycle.Drawing on recent conversations with owners, brokers, tenants, architects, engineers, and contractors, Chris Ressa challenges the prevailing narrative that 2026 will simply mirror a solid 2025. Instead, he outlines why the year ahead could outperform expectations across leasing, rents, and long-term fundamentals.At the center of his thesis is sustained leasing velocity. Across categories and markets, tenant demand continues to outpace available supply, even as headlines focus on isolated retailer struggles. Chris explains why those failures do not define the health of retail — and why today’s winners are expanding with conviction.He also breaks down why early-2025 disruptions, including an unusually high number of store closures and tariff uncertainty, are unlikely to repeat in 2026. With bankruptcies moderating, new construction still muted, and many signed tenants yet to open, available retail space is tightening further.Layer in a U.S. consumer expected to gain discretionary spending power, and the result is a collision of forces that may finally unlock meaningful rent growth. Chris argues this is the early innings of a retail pricing cycle — and 2026 could be the year it clearly shows up.What You’ll HearWhy 2026 could outperform already-strong 2025 resultsHow leasing velocity is signaling a tighter retail marketThe impact of fewer bankruptcies on available retail spaceWhy muted new construction matters more than headlines suggestHow rising consumer discretionary income supports rent growthWhat the next retail pricing cycle may look like for landlords and investorsChapters00:12 – Welcome to 2026Chris sets the stage with early sentiment from across the retail real estate industry.01:58 – Leasing Velocity Tells the Real StoryDemand for retail space continues to outpace supply across most categories.03:28 – Winners, Losers, and Retail RealityWhy retailer failures don’t equal a weak retail sector.05:32 – Bankruptcies, Tariffs, and a Reset MarketHow 2025 disruptions slowed leasing—and why 2026 looks different.07:26 – The Consumer Comes Back Into FocusRising discretionary income and its impact on physical retail demand.08:18 – Rent Growth vs. Landlord CapExHow economics are shifting tenant and landlord cost burdens.09:03 – The Early Innings of a Pricing CycleWhy multiple forces are colliding to push rents higher.10:55 – What’s Next for Retail Retold

Is Retail Entering 2026 with More Certainty Than Ever?Fresh off the energy of ICSC New York, Chris Ressa and Carly Iacono unpack what really matters in retail real estate right now and where the market is headed into 2026. In this episode of What’s in Store, they move past surface-level headlines and dig into the conversations happening behind closed doors with investors, landlords, and retailers alike. pastedOne clear theme emerged: certainty has returned, but the conversation has shifted. Cap rates are no longer viewed solely through the lens of interest rates. Instead, investors are pricing risk based on tenant quality, sector fundamentals, and long-term demand. At the same time, retailers are facing a supply crunch, with limited availability in top shopping centers constraining expansion, even as new stores continue to outperform expectations.Chris and Carly also explore the rising demand for value net lease deals, the growing challenge of maintaining long weighted average lease terms, and why long-term credit tenants have become harder to find. Perhaps most encouraging, retailers are reinvesting heavily in their physical stores, signaling renewed confidence in brick-and-mortar retail.Taken together, these insights paint a clear picture: retail is not just resilient. It is evolving with discipline, data, and conviction.What You’ll HearWhy cap rates are being driven more by risk than ratesHow supply constraints are reshaping retailer expansion plansWhy value net lease assets are suddenly in high demandWhat strong new-store performance signals about consumer behaviorHow retailers are prioritizing physical stores againWhat the absence of AI chatter says about the current cycleWhy these trends matter heading into 2026Chapters00:07 – Setting the Stage at ICSC New YorkChris and Carly explain why ICSC remains the most important deal-making forum in retail real estate.02:30 – Why Cap Rates Are No Longer Just About Interest RatesThe discussion shifts to how investors are pricing risk by sector and tenant quality.10:25 – Liquidity Returns and What It Means for Deal VolumeImproving credit markets are quietly unlocking stalled transactions.12:07 – The Real Supply Constraint Retailers Are FacingRetailers want to grow, but many cannot find space in their top target centers.15:51 – Value Net Lease Becomes a Hot Asset ClassShort-term and below-market leases attract intense buyer demand.25:28 – New Stores Are Outperforming ExpectationsRetailers report new locations beating pro forma sales projections.31:39 – The Challenge of Long-Term Credit and Lease DurationMaintaining portfolio WALT is getting harder as long-term deals become scarce.34:23 – Retailers Reinvest in the In-Store ExperienceCapital is flowing back into physical stores through remodels and upgrades.37:05 – The Surprising Silence Around AI and LaborTwo dominant topics from past conferences barely register this year.38:34 – Why These Trends Point Toward 2026Chris and Carly explain why these themes are just the beginning.

Are you managing risk in your leases, or just hoping for the best?Flashing back to December 2023, this Retail Retold replay proves just how relevant the details still are. In this episode, host Chris Ressa breaks down one of the most underestimated risks in retail real estate leasing: possession contingencies. A lease can be fully executed, a delivery date locked in, and everyone feeling good, until the existing tenant does not leave. Without a possession contingency in place, landlords can find themselves caught between two tenants, facing delays, legal exposure, and a deal that suddenly starts to unravel. It is a reminder that possession is not a technicality; it is everything.Chris also zooms out to talk about something just as critical to long-term success: skill-building. Every year, he commits to sharpening a new skill, often outside of traditional business training. These disciplines, ones that demand focus, patience, and attention to detail, end up strengthening how deals get done, decisions get made, and pressure gets handled.This quick-hitter episode is a flashback with staying power. The lesson is simple: protect your deals with the right clauses, and protect your edge by continuously leveling up. Because in retail real estate, the smallest details often decide the biggest outcomes.What You’ll Hear in This ReplayWhy a fully executed lease does not always guarantee possession — and how that gap can derail a dealA real-world breakdown of possession contingencies and when they actually matterThe risk landlords face when existing tenants do not vacate on timeHow one overlooked clause can impact delivery dates, legal exposure, and tenant relationshipsWhy continuously building new skills outside of your core job can make you a better dealmakerChapters00:00 – Flashing Back to December 2023Chris reflects on the timing of the episode and why these lessons still matter today.02:15 – The Habit of Building New SkillsWhy intentional skill development — inside and outside of business — sharpens long-term performance.04:20 – Learning Precision Outside the OfficeHow mastering a detail-oriented hobby improves focus and decision-making in high-pressure work.09:55 – What Is a Possession Contingency?A clear, practical explanation of the clause many deals overlook.12:10 – When a Tenant Does Not LeaveThe real risk of expired leases, holdovers, and delayed possession.14:30 – Protecting Delivery Dates and DealsHow possession contingencies create clarity and protect all parties.15:30 – Final TakeawaysWhy better documents and better operators go hand in hand.

How is Spatial.ai mapping real retail demand?In this episode of Retail Retold, host Chris Ressa gets inside the mind of Lÿden Foust, the CEO and founder of Spatial.ai—the company turning real human behavior into a map retailers can actually use. If you think location strategy is still built on income bands and census data, this conversation flips that idea on its head.Foust explains how Persona Live Segmentation blends social signals, credit card trends, demographic nuance, and movement patterns to reveal who your customer really is—and where they live in the physical world. It’s the engine behind brands like Patagonia and Lululemon choosing sites, growing market share, and targeting high-value segments others miss.Ressa and Foust dig into the elephant in the room: AI isn’t spatial (yet). The technology can write decks and draw buildings, but it can’t feel the difference between half a mile and a trade area boundary. The fundamentals still matter—and boots on the ground beat bots on the map.The two break down how value just overtook quality in consumer preference, why Dutch Bros is winning by going after unexpected segments, and how landlords can use psychographics to land better tenants and build smarter merchandising mixes.What You’ll Hear:Why psychographic segmentation, not demographics, drives retail market shareHow Patagonia, Lululemon, and others use Persona Live Segmentation to find their best customersThe four data sources behind Spatial.ai’s models: social, purchasing, demographics, movementWhy AI is not yet spatially aware enough to replace human site selectionWhat mobile data gets wrong and right about trade areasHow Dutch Bros disrupted the “crowded” coffee category by targeting unexpected segmentsWhy value is now outperforming quality in consumer decision-makingHow property owners can use psychographics to land the right anchor tenantWhere demographic trends are shifting: birth rates, immigration, Gen Z, and Gen AlphaThe surprising role of franchising as a growth engine for retail real estateChapters00:00 — Who Is Lÿden FoustChris introduces Lÿden and the origin story of Spatial.ai’s Persona Live Segmentation platform.01:13 — Why Psychographics MatterLÿden explains why real behavior beats demographics when retailers choose locations.02:15 — The Data Behind Persona SegmentationSpatial.ai blends social signals, spending patterns, demographics, and movement to map customer segments.06:38 — Retailers Using It TodayPatagonia, Lululemon, and others use psychographics to find top customer groups and guide site selection.10:58 — AI’s Limits in Real EstateChris and Lÿden debate why AI isn’t spatial yet—and why human context still wins for site selection.12:41 — Mobile Data: Good and BadThey break down what mobile visitation data reveals, and where it misrepresents certain customer groups.14:27 — Building Trade Areas SmarterLÿden explains how mobile data reshaped trade area analysis and unlocked competitive insight.18:40 — Value Now Beats QualityThey explore why “value” just surpassed “quality” in consumer preference and what retailers should do about it.19:27 — Dutch Bros Case StudyLÿden highlights how Dutch Bros grew share by serving unexpected segments with the right price-value tradeoff.24:37 — Psychographics for LandlordsChris asks how property owners can use segmentation to land anchor tenants and build stronger merchandising mixes.

Can entertainment concepts win in a tight real estate market?The kids’ entertainment world is exploding, and in this episode of Retail Retold, host Chris Ressa dives straight into the center of that momentum with Melissa Tinsley, Director of Real Estate at Unleashed Brands. Melissa pulls back the curtain on the powerhouse portfolio behind Urban Air, Sylvan Learning, The Little Gym, and Water Wings, revealing how Unleashed is rapidly shaping the future of experiential retail.She shares why she left Tropical Smoothie Café after eight years to tackle the high-stakes, high-complexity world of big-box entertainment real estate—where ceiling heights, engineering gymnastics, waivers, zoning battles, and multimillion-dollar buildout decisions turn every Urban Air deal into an adrenaline-fueled puzzle.Melissa breaks down Urban Air’s evolution from trampoline park to full-scale adventure park, how that shift has changed the competitive landscape, and why the brand is aggressively expanding across the West Coast, East Coast, and major suburban hubs.She also explains why Urban Air is becoming a go-to solution for vacant big boxes—drawing families, driving cross-shopping, and creating the kind of sticky traffic landlords crave.Packed with candid insights on franchisee growth, site criteria, and real estate challenges, this episode gives a powerful look at how Unleashed Brands is building the next generation of family-focused retail experiences.What You’ll Hear:The inside story on how Urban Air is rewriting the rules of kids’ entertainmentWhy “trampoline parks” are over—and adventure parks are the new category killerThe gritty realities of big-box real estate: ceiling hurdles, digging pits, raising roofsHow Unleashed Brands is turning dead anchors into high-performing family magnetsThe markets where Urban Air is going all-in—from California to the NortheastWhy franchisees with serious capital are chasing adventure park dealsWhat most landlords still misunderstand about Urban AirThe dealmaking mindset that gets complex entertainment leases signed—fastChapters00:00 – Meet Melissa TinsleyMelissa shares her background and move to Unleashed Brands.01:26 – Inside the Unleashed Brands PortfolioHow Urban Air, Sylvan, The Little Gym, and Water Wings fit together.03:16 – The Reality of Big-Box Entertainment DealsCeiling heights, engineering challenges, waivers, and zoning.04:55 – From Trampoline Park to Adventure ParkHow Urban Air is evolving and outpacing competitors.07:28 – Franchise Growth + Who’s InvestingThe types of franchisees fueling expansion across the country.09:31 – Markets on FireWhere Urban Air is growing fastest—especially CA, NY, and NJ.11:13 – Filling Big Box VacanciesWhy Urban Air is becoming a prime replacement for dark anchors.12:18 – What Landlords Need to KnowCo-tenant reactions, parking concerns, and why Urban Air drives powerful family traffic.

Which of these trends will reshape brands the most?This week on What’s in Store, Karly Iacono and Chris Ressa break down the power moves happening across luxury retail—and why the category is rewriting the rules of real estate.They open with a jolt: luxury brands are no longer just leasing the world’s most iconic corners… they’re buying them outright. Prada dropping $835 million on Fifth Avenue and LVMH investing billions globally isn’t about rent—it’s about dominance. Karly and Chris argue these brands aren’t reacting to the market, they’re locking in control of their physical identity for decades to come. Flagships aren’t stores anymore—they’re statements.They then dive into the comeback of experiential flagships. After a decade obsessed with e-commerce scaling, luxury is doubling down on high-touch experiences: concierge service, curated appointments, even food and beverage. The hosts make it clear—luxury isn’t selling products, it’s selling a feeling you can’t stream.Next, they explore the suburban shift. With affluent consumers spending more time at home, luxury is quietly testing high-income suburbs, balancing exclusivity with convenience without diluting the brand.Finally, Karly and Chris tackle the booming world of resale luxury. Once a fringe online niche, authenticated resale is taking Class A corners—and becoming a gateway for the next generation of luxury shoppers.What You’ll Hear:How luxury brands are flipping the script by buying their real estate and making billion-dollar flagship bets.Why high-impact, high-experience flagships are roaring back as the core of luxury brand identity.The rise of luxury in high-income suburbs — and what it means for convenience, exclusivity, and brand strategy.How authenticated resale is becoming a powerful gateway into luxury for the next generation of shoppers.The real estate implications behind each trend — and why these shifts matter now more than ever.Chapters00:00 — The Luxury Land GrabKarly and Chris break down why luxury brands are buying their real estate and making billion-dollar bets on iconic flagship locations.08:50 — The Flagship ComebackThe hosts explore why experiential, high-identity flagship stores are surging back as luxury brands reassert the power of physical retail.16:15 — Luxury Moves to the SuburbsThey discuss the shift toward affluent suburban markets as luxury brands meet high-income consumers closer to home.22:20 — The Rise of Resale LuxuryKarly and Chris unpack how authenticated resale is becoming a major gateway to luxury—and why resellers are taking prime corners once reserved for the biggest brands.

Could a pandemic business-plan lesson for a bored kid spark the next breakout fast-casual brand?This episode moves fast — because Rob Gresham’s career has never slowed down. Chris Ressa sits with the restaurant veteran who went from washing dishes at 15 to helping architect the early operational engine behind CAVA’s meteoric growth from zero to 80 stores.Rob shares the wild ride: running a steakhouse kitchen as a teenager, getting recruited by Chipotle to fix troubled locations, learning the business side under industry giants, and joining CAVA before it was a household name — building systems, opening markets, and helping scale a brand that eventually went public.Then the pandemic hit. Consulting work vanished. His son was bored. So Rob turned a homeschool project into something much bigger: a business plan for a scratch-made, allergen-conscious chicken concept. When it came time to name it, Rob’s son delivered the winner: Isaac’s — inspired by Isaac Newton, who invented calculus and discovered gravity while quarantined during the plague. “He changed the world in quarantine,” his son said. “You created a restaurant. Name it Isaac’s.”Today, Isaac’s Poultry Market has two booming locations, a cult following, and the DNA of a future fast-casual standout. Rob’s story is momentum, grit, and timing — the kind Retail Retold was made for.What You’ll Hear:How Rob went from washing dishes at 15 to helping scale CAVA into an 80-unit national powerhouseThe pivotal career moves — and mentors — that shaped his operator mindsetWhy he left CAVA at its peak and walked straight into entrepreneurshipThe pandemic moment that sparked Isaac’s Poultry Market (and how his son named it)What it really takes to open a restaurant during supply-chain chaos and skyrocketing construction costsHow Rob chose his first two locations — and the real-world negotiation battles behind themWhy exclusives matter, how fast-casual operators think about competition, and the markets he’s targeting nextThe scratch-made, allergen-friendly philosophy behind Isaac’s menuAnd the big question: Is Isaac’s positioned to become the next major fast-casual brand?Chapters00:00 — From Dish Pit to DriveHow a 15-year-old dishwasher discovered his path — and his ambition — in the restaurant world.02:00 — Learning the Business Beyond the KitchenThe mentors and moments that pushed Rob from chef to full-scale operator.04:45 — Chipotle, CAVA, and Fixing What’s BrokenRob’s early role in stabilizing stores and helping build CAVA’s operational backbone from day zero.06:30 — Building a Rocketship BrandCross-country construction sprints, tiny founding teams, and opening stores at breakneck speed.09:00 — The Decision to Walk AwayWhy Rob left CAVA at its peak and refused to transition into an office role.13:00 — Pandemic Curveball → Entrepreneurial BreakthroughHow a business-plan lesson with his son turned into the foundation for Isaac’s Poultry Market.14:00 — Naming Isaac’s: A Quarantine Stroke of GeniusThe Isaac Newton inspiration that became a bold, meaningful brand name.17:00 — Building Location #1 in a Broken Supply ChainConstruction chaos, blown budgets, and the reality of opening a restaurant during COVID.22:00 — The Battle for Location #2Inside the seven-month negotiation to secure exclusives and protect the emerging brand.29:00 — The Future of Isaac’s Poultry MarketHow Rob is approaching growth, second-gen spaces, and the next wave of opportunity.

What Does It Take to Scale from Two Gyms to 100+ Stores Across America?n this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa welcomes franchise powerhouse Kal Gullipali — the man who turned two Orange Theory studios into a 100-unit empire spanning Marco’s Pizza, Dave’s Hot Chicken, European Wax Center, and more. From Wall Street to wellness centers to hot chicken, Kal’s story is a masterclass in bold moves, smart capital, and relentless growth.Kal reveals how selling his first franchise lit the spark for scale — and how COVID became the ultimate wake-up call to diversify. Today, his group operates across multiple states, building new stores, buying portfolios, and driving more than $35–40 million in annual growth. He breaks down the numbers, the strategy, and the mindset it takes to play at this level.This episode dives into what it really takes to win in franchising: sharp site selection, patient capital, and powerful partnerships. Kal also calls out a coming shift in the fast-casual world — the return of true customer service — as brands rediscover that speed means nothing without hospitality.What You’ll Hear:How Kal built a 100+ unit, multi-brand portfolio in under a decadeWhy diversification saved his business modelThe real economics behind scaling franchisesWhy the next big franchise trend is a return to the human touchChapters00:00 – Meet Kal GullipaliFrom Wall Street to Main Street — how a former Merrill Lynch analyst became a franchise powerhouse.02:00 – The First Franchise BetWhy Kal’s first leap into Orange Theory Fitness changed everything.04:00 – From Two Gyms to a Hundred UnitsThe mindset, capital, and partnerships behind explosive growth.06:00 – Lessons from Selling and ScalingHow selling early wins funded a smarter, more diversified empire.07:45 – Enter the Pizza and Hot Chicken GameWhy COVID turned Kal into a believer in delivery-driven, resilient brands.09:30 – Building vs. BuyingThe strategy behind mixing acquisitions with ground-up new builds.10:30 – Why Dave’s Hot Chicken Took OffHigh AUVs, hot branding, and a cult following—Kal breaks down the magic formula.13:00 – The Numbers Behind the EmpireA candid look at performance, diversification, and what drives profitability.15:00 – The Power of People and ProcessInside Kal’s shared-services model and how he scales culture across brands.18:00 – The Franchise Trend No One’s Talking AboutWhy customer service—not tech—will define the next era of QSR success.

Is Foot Traffic the New Gold Standard of Retail Success?What happens when two of retail’s sharpest minds go head-to-head on the data behind the industry’s biggest shifts? You get this week’s episode of Retail Retold, where Chris Ressa sits down (again!) with Ethan Chernofsky, Chief Marketing Officer at Placer.ai.Ethan brings the receipts—billions of data points from Placer.ai’s location analytics—to unpack five retail trends that are redefining the way consumers shop and how retailers win. From Chili’s comeback and Trader Joe’s cult following to the rise of “dark stores” and the urbanization of suburbia, Chris and Ethan debate what’s driving foot traffic, loyalty, and value creation across retail. It’s part data, part strategy, and all energy.What You’ll Hear:The five retail trends shaping 2026 and beyondWhy simplicity (and knowing your “reason for being”) drives successHow loyalty and cross-visitation can rise togetherWhy the store is now a media channel, fulfillment hub, and brand platformHow suburban retail is stealing the showChapters00:00 – Welcome Back, Ethan ChernofskyChris and Ethan kick things off with their signature energy — a quick catch-up, a look inside Placer.ai’s marketing team, and how data storytelling is changing the game.02:30 – Trend #1: Know Your Reason for BeingThe biggest driver of retail success today? Focus. Ethan explains how Chili’s, Trader Joe’s, and Sprouts are winning by doubling down on what they do best.08:30 – Trend #2: The Battle for the BasketLoyalty is up — but so is cross-visitation. Chris and Ethan break down why shoppers are visiting more stores and what it means for retailers fighting for “share of list.”13:15 – Trend #3: The Middle Market MysteryCan the “middle” of retail survive? The duo debates whether flexibility, not price point, is the secret weapon for retailers stuck between luxury and value.18:10 – Trend #4: The Store as a PlatformFrom buy-online-pickup-in-store to dark stores and retail media, Ethan unpacks how brick-and-mortar is becoming retail’s most powerful ecosystem.22:45 – Trend #5: The Urbanization of the SuburbsThe suburbs are stealing the spotlight. Ethan and Chris discuss how urban concepts are moving into suburban centers—and what that means for open-air retail.29:00 – Final Thoughts: The Future of Retail is RealChris and Ethan wrap it up with what’s next for data, design, and human experience in the physical retail world.

Are we witnessing a reset in what “proven,” “scalable,” and “investable” mean in franchising?This is not the sugar-coated version of franchising. Patrick Buckley sits down with Chris Ressa to unpack what is actually happening behind the curtain of franchise growth, exits and unit-level profitability. He breaks down the split between legacy giants and scrappy emerging brands fighting for first-time operators, why once-hot home-service brands have cooled off, and why beverages and “drive-thru only” formats are the franchise sector’s new land rush.Patrick gets blunt about the math — labor, food inflation, beef shortages, construction costs and multiples that make zero sense on paper. He explains why Taco Bell can sell at 10X EBITDA while most operators are fighting to keep 10% margin, and why franchising is not a guaranteed “proven system” but a case-by-case knife fight. Health and wellness franchising is rising, the approval gate is tighter than people think, and the biggest risk is assuming the word “franchise” equals safe..What you'll hear: The collapse in home-services franchise buying after the 2020–24 gold rushThe beverage & drive-thru wave and why it's crowding capitalUnit-profit reality: labor > inflation, food > margin, construction > forecastWhy some brands trade at 9–10x EBITDA despite margin compressionHow first-time buyers actually get (or don’t get) approved to buy existing unitsWhy health & wellness may steal share from food over the next decadeThe warning most first-time buyers wish they heard soonerChapters00:00 Introduction to Fran Dogs and Patrick Buckley03:02 Current Trends in Franchising05:40 Challenges Faced by Franchisees08:59 Understanding Franchise Valuations11:44 The Rise of Taco Bell and Beverage Trends14:58 Navigating Franchise Purchases17:41 Emerging Categories Beyond Food and Beverage20:34 Final Insights and Industry Statistics

How Are Retailers Redefining Success Beyond Sales Per Square Foot?The metrics that define retail success are changing — fast. In this episode of What’s in Store, hosts Karly Iacono and Chris Ressa dive into the evolving ways retailers, investors, and developers are measuring performance in an era defined by data, analytics, and AI.From psychodemographics that reveal why consumers buy to macroeconomic drivers reshaping markets, Karly and Chris explore how retail site selection, investment decisions, and KPIs are being redefined. They discuss how new data tools are quantifying once-intangible factors — from population behavior to co-tenancy synergies — and how that data is changing the way we understand performance beyond traditional sales per square foot.The conversation also touches on the influence of political and labor factors, the rise of visits per square foot as a new benchmark, and how AI and predictive analytics may soon reshape everything from store openings to customer engagement.What you'll hear: How psychodemographics are reshaping site selectionWhy macroeconomic “anchors” like universities and studios drive retail growthThe impact of politics, regulation, and labor markets on expansionWhat “visits per square foot” really tells us about performanceHow AI is turning overwhelming data into actionable retail strategy

How did a former baseball player find his swing in commercial real estate? This week on Retail Retold, Chris Ressa welcomes Tyler Bindi, an investment sales broker with Marcus & Millichap, who has quickly risen through the ranks of the net-lease sector after entering commercial real estate in the middle of COVID-19. From his college baseball career at St. Mary's College of California, to selling season tickets for the Colorado Rockies, now to closing deals nationwide, Tyler shares how perseverance, cold-calling, and curiosity built his foundation during one of the toughest markets in recent history.Tyler reflects on the transformation of the net-lease landscape—from near-zero interest rates in 2021 to today’s higher-rate environment—and the resulting shift in buyer and seller psychology. He explains how many mom-and-pop landlords remain sidelined, while new, first-time investors are entering the space seeking stable, long-term income and tax advantages.Together, Chris and Tyler break down how pricing expectations are finally converging, why quick-service restaurants remain a market bellwether, and how opportunistic investors are finding value in short-term, low-rent assets with strong real-estate fundamentals. Tyler also reveals his team’s path to scaling from a one-man operation to a ten-person brokerage and why he believes Q4 2025 will mark a powerful resurgence in net-lease transaction volume.What you'll hear: How Tyler transitioned from sports sales to commercial real estate during COVIDWhat’s changed most in the net-lease market over the last five yearsWhy short-term leases in great locations are attracting investor demandHow buyer and seller expectations are finally coming back into alignmentWhy Q4 2025 could be a breakout quarter for transaction volume

How Did Foresight — and a Lot of Grit — Turn One Client into a Thriving Business?Can tenacity turn setbacks like the 2008 GFC into career breakthroughs?This week on Retail Retold, Chris Ressa sits down with Bethany Babcock, founder of Foresite Commercial Real Estate — and a mom of three who has built a thriving firm through sheer tenacity.Bethany’s journey is anything but conventional. Born in the U.S. but raised in Chile, she came to Texas at 18 with no financial support and worked her way through college while getting her start in real estate. When the 2008 financial crisis hit, she doubled down instead of walking away — jumping into commission-only investment sales and eventually founding her own firm in 2014 with a single client.Since then, Bethany has grown Foresite into a respected full-service company with offices in San Antonio, Austin, and Houston. Along the way she created the CRE Launch Program, an internship pipeline that’s bringing fresh talent into the industry. Her story blends personal grit with professional innovation, offering valuable lessons for anyone navigating today’s retail real estate market.From raising bilingual kids to raising capital, Bethany shows what it takes to persevere — and why “trust but verify” is more than just a business mantra.What you'll hear: How a mom of three turned setbacks into a thriving CRE businessWhy 2008’s downturn became a springboard, not a stumbling blockHow mentorship and grit fueled Bethany’s career shift into retailThe inside story of launching Foresite with one client and growing from thereThe birth of the CRE Launch Program and its role in shaping new talentMarket insights: San Antonio and Austin leasing strength, local buyers vs. international investorsA high-stakes deal that fell apart — and the hard lesson learnedChapters00:00 Introduction to Bethany Babcock02:43 Bethany's Journey into Commercial Real Estate06:05 Career Development and Starting Foresite08:52 Growth and Challenges in Business11:39 Current Market Insights and Trends14:53 Local vs. International Investors17:55 Lessons from a Challenging Deal21:40 The CRE Launch Program and Closing Thoughts

What Can 25 Years in Retail Real Estate Teach Us About Resilience and Growth?On this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa welcomes longtime friend and industry leader Hue Chen, President of Saglo Companies, for a conversation packed with stories and lessons from 25 years in retail real estate.Hue reflects on starting his career in the trenches of the Great Recession, when lead-sharing boards and creativity kept deals alive. He shares how an unlikely sabbatical during that downturn reshaped his outlook, and why sometimes the “boring” tenants — daycares, laundromats, coin ops — deliver the biggest wins.From comparing ICSC attendee lists in 2018 vs. 2025 to unpacking why beverage brands like Dutch Bros and 7 Brew are exploding, Hue uses data and anecdotes to show how the retail landscape is constantly evolving. He and Chris also dive into deeper themes: what it takes to scale a company without being the bottleneck, how community-minded regional tenants often outperform nationals, and why consumer and retailer debt may be retail’s real risk today.It’s a conversation that blends history, humor, and hard truths — and proves that the best retail stories aren’t always about lollipops and rainbows, but about resilience, adaptability, and the unexpected deals that shape entire careers.What you'll hear: How the Great Recession forged Hue’s mindset — and why he never thought of leaving retailThe sabbatical that reset his career and gave him long-term perspectiveWhy “unsexy” tenants like daycares and laundromats can be the most profitable anchorsWhat ICSC attendee lists reveal about a generational shift in retail leadershipHow Saglo builds systems so the president isn’t the bottleneckWhy regional tenants with 2–20 stores often outperform big nationalsThe explosion of beverage concepts like Dutch Bros, 7 Brew, and Luckin Coffee — and what makes them different from StarbucksWhy community engagement is often the real driver of tenant successThe hidden risks: consumer debt and retailer leverage vs. the strength of retail real estate fundamentalsLessons on adaptability, resilience, and how a single deal can shape an entire careerChapters00:00 Navigating the Great Recession: A Shared Journey09:32 The Evolution of Retail Real Estate20:47 Current Market Dynamics and Future Outlook24:56 Retail Resilience and Market Dynamics28:22 Concerns in Retail: Debt and Consumer Behavior31:26 The Importance of Community Engagement in Retail34:24 The Rise of Coffee Concepts in Retail40:30 Defining the 'Third Place' in Today's Society

Why are institutions pouring billions into an asset class others are doubting?In this episode of What’s In Store, Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono break down one of the most resilient yet often misunderstood corners of commercial real estate: net lease. While headlines focus on retail closures or shifting tenant dynamics, the reality is that net lease portfolios are performing at an extraordinary level, with occupancy rates consistently between 98 and 99 percent. This asset class is attracting serious institutional capital, and its structure creates predictable long-term income streams, and replacement costs and tenant “stickiness” make these properties so durable.They also tackle misconceptions—explaining why recent cap rate movements and financing challenges haven’t diminished the underlying value of well-located, freestanding real estate. With creative financing and strategic positioning, today’s market offers investors a rare window to buy below replacement cost while securing stable returns. Whether you’re an active investor, a retail real estate professional, or simply curious about how “mailbox money” really works, this episode delivers a clear-eyed look at why net lease is a powerful and timely opportunity.What you'll hear: Why net lease portfolios are maintaining 98–99% occupancyHow long-term leases provide durability and predictable incomeThe role of replacement cost in strengthening asset valueWhy tenant “stickiness” adds security to investmentsThe growing appetite from institutional investorsHow rising cap rates and high financing costs create opportunityStrategies for investors navigating today’s marketChapters00:00 Introduction to Net Lease Opportunities03:01 Understanding Occupancy Rates in Net Lease REITs05:55 The Durability of Income in Net Lease Investments08:47 Institutional Interest in Net Lease Properties12:09 Market Trends and Future Predictions for Net Lease14:59 Investment Strategies in Net Lease Real Estate

Bryan Furze is buzzing with insights. In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa and Bryan, Senior Vice President at Charter Realty, talk about his bold move from landlord to broker after 25 years in retail real estate. Brian shares how his career has taken him from leading portfolios at major landlords to now building Charter’s Northern New England business, giving him a unique perspective on both sides of the deal. Together, Chris and Brian break down why retail real estate isn’t oversupplied but rather “under demolished,” how construction costs are reshaping small-shop leasing, and why secondary markets like New Hampshire and Maine are becoming hotbeds of growth. Brian also tells the story of a high-stakes Boston acquisition that tested his team but ultimately transformed a neighborhood. Plus, the conversation touches on sustainability, pollinator-friendly practices, and the personal side of balancing career, family, and passion projects.

What Do Cold Plunges, K-Pop, and Loyalty Clubs Tell Us About Consumer Behavior?Shifting the focus from real estate to consumer behavior, Chris Ressa and Natalie Chambers, Executive Creative Director at the Dealey Group, dive into the shifting landscape of what makes the consumer tick. Natalie shares three standout trends that you might not expect —ancient wellness rituals, pluralversal storylines, and the rise of social silos—and Chris debates her on what’s hype versus what’s here to stay.From cold plunges and sound baths to Korean corn dogs and Baseball Lifestyle 101, the conversation weaves together fun examples with deeper insights on belonging, loyalty, and retail programming. They also cover the balance between convenience and dwell time, debating how shopping centers should position themselves for consumers who want it all.Part debate, part discovery, this episode looks at how AI, culture, and community are reshaping what it means to shop—and what it means to connect.What you'll hear: How the rise of AI is pushing consumers toward both high-tech convenience and “ancient wellness” rituals like cold plunges and sound bathsWhy pluralversal storylines—from K-pop hits to unexpected food trends—are reshaping cultural consumptionThe growing power of social silos and loyalty clubs in making shoppers feel like they belongChris and Natalie’s spirited debate on convenience vs. dwell time and what it means for shopping centersReal-world examples of how retail can turn “points on a map” into places people loveChapters00:00 Understanding Consumer Behavior02:51 The Impact of AI on Consumer Trends05:58 Exploring Ancient Wellness Trends08:57 Plural-versal Design in Consumer Culture11:54 The Rise of Niche Markets and Social Silos17:55 Balancing Convenience and Dwell Time in Retail20:48 Implementing Insights in Real Estate Marketing23:46 The Future of Retail in an AI-Driven World

What does it take to turn a passion for running into a thriving retail business?With fall marathon training season in full swing, we thought we would throw it back to a conversation that Chris Ressa had with Kim Caruso, owner of Fleet Feet Poughkeepsie, located at DLC’s Shops at South Hills. Kim shares her journey from corporate America to entrepreneurship, explaining how a casual 5K inspired her passion for running and ultimately led to opening a specialty running store in her hometown.Kim reflects on the challenges and opportunities of owning a retail business, especially navigating the pandemic. From shifting to appointment-based fittings and curbside pickup to building community through virtual running groups and challenges, she highlights the resilience of specialty retail. Throughout, Kim emphasizes the importance of connection, experience, and service—showing how brick-and-mortar retail thrives when rooted in relationships.Chris underscores a core truth in retail real estate: the people behind the business are as important as the location itself. Fleet Feet Poughkeepsie’s success wasn’t just about market demand, but about Kim’s relentless energy, passion, and community focus.What you'll hear: Passion to Business: Kim turned a personal love for running into a successful small business, proving that spotting a gap in the market can open doors for entrepreneurship.Pandemic Pivot: By introducing online appointments, curbside pickup, and creative virtual events, Fleet Feet kept customers engaged and sales steady—even while doors were closed.Community is the Differentiator: Specialty retail wins not just on product, but by building experiences and relationships. Customers return because they feel part of something bigger than a transaction.The Value of Franchise Support: Partnering with Fleet Feet gave Kim access to vendors, training, and expertise that would have been unattainable as an independent startup.Real Estate Lessons: Location matters, but the people running the store drive its ultimate success. Kim’s active involvement and vision made Poughkeepsie one of Fleet Feet’s strongest openings.Resilience & Optimism: Despite being down 15% in 2020, Fleet Feet weathered the storm and positioned itself for a strong rebound with pent-up demand expected in 2021.Entrepreneurial Advice: Know what you’re good at, lean on experts for what you’re not (like commercial real estate), and give customers a reason to choose you over online competitors.Chapters00:16 Kim Caruso's Journey to Fleet Feet03:29 Navigating the Pandemic: Challenges and Innovations08:02 The Future of Physical Retail09:41 Community Engagement and Events11:56 Connecting with Customers Digitally15:13 Reflections on the Pandemic Experience18:38 The Franchise Journey with Fleet Feet26:12 Choosing the Right Location30:18 The Importance of Teamwork in Business

Are You Measuring Foot Traffic Accurately—or Guessing?In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa sits down with Carla Hinson, Vice President of Solutions at MRI Software, to uncover the top three things most people don’t know about foot traffic. Carla explains how advancements in data collection have moved from simple counters to cell phone tracking, and now to visual AI that provides true, real-time insights into consumer behavior. She highlights three critical dimensions: potential—the ability to capture more granular and accurate traffic data; performance—understanding capture rates and linking them to revenue outcomes; and optimized experiences—using data to refine in-store layouts, marketing strategies, and customer engagement. With MRI’s OnLocation Footfall Analytics, retailers and landlords can track who’s walking by, who’s entering, and how customers behave once inside. Carla also emphasizes the growing role of AI—both personally and professionally—in shaping expectations around technology adoption and decision-making in real estate.What you'll hear: Carla Henson is the Vice President of Solutions at MRI Software, focusing on strategy and go-to-market initiatives.MRI Software is known for property management and supports clients across various segments, including residential and commercial real estate.AI is increasingly being integrated into personal and professional lives, enhancing productivity and decision-making.Visual AI technology allows for detailed foot traffic analysis, linking to existing security cameras to track customer behavior.Understanding foot traffic is crucial for retailers to optimize marketing strategies and improve customer experiences.Capture rates are essential metrics for retailers to measure the effectiveness of their storefronts and marketing efforts.Data-driven insights can reveal discrepancies in perceived versus actual customer demographics.The evolution of technology has shifted expectations from personal to professional environments, impacting how businesses adopt new tools.AI has been in development since the 1950s, but its accessibility and application in retail are relatively new.The future of data analytics in retail and office spaces holds significant potential for optimizing space usage and enhancing customer engagement.Chapters00:00 Introduction to MRI Software and Carla Henson07:25 The Role of AI in Retail and Personal Life10:58 Understanding Foot Traffic: Potential, Performance, and Optimization17:09 The Future of Data in

Can a Dead-End Street Become the Hottest Retail Destination in Town?In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa sits down with Howard Aspinwall, the dynamic owner of Mellow Monkey, a destination home décor and gift shop tucked away on a dead-end street in Stratford, Connecticut. Howard shares his unconventional journey from art school to chef, tech executive, and finally retail entrepreneur—starting Mellow Monkey as an online-only business before making the rare move into brick-and-mortar. He reveals how his eclectic background, unique product curation, and immersive in-store experience turned an unlikely warehouse location into a tri-state shopping draw.Howard also dives into his social media strategy, how humor and personality fuel customer engagement, the agility needed to pivot product lines, and the looming impacts of tariffs and supply chain challenges on the retail landscape. It’s a masterclass in building a retail brand that people seek out—even when it’s literally at “the end of the earth.”What you'll hear:Howard's diverse background includes art, culinary arts, and technology.Mellow Monkey started as an online business before transitioning to brick-and-mortar.The store is located in an unconventional area, creating a unique shopping experience.Social media plays a crucial role in driving traffic to the store.Howard emphasizes the importance of creating a fun and immersive environment for customers.The store features a constantly changing inventory of unique products.Customer acquisition costs online are high, making brick-and-mortar more profitable.Howard's approach to marketing includes humor and personal engagement.The store has a small but dedicated team that fluctuates with the seasons.Economic conditions are impacting retail, but Mellow Monkey has maintained strong consumer confidence.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Mellow Monkey13:22 Transitioning from Online to Brick-and-Mortar21:15 The Unique Store Experience24:56 Navigating Economic Challenges29:56 Connecting with Customers and Community

Can you really train your brain to remember everything?In this fascinating episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa is joined by Chester Santos, 2008 U.S. Memory Champion and world-renowned memory expert, to explore how mastering memory can transform your personal and professional life. Chester breaks down the science behind memory training, shares practical applications for business leaders, and even puts Chris on the spot with a live memory test. From eliminating to-do lists to improving client relationships, this episode proves that memory isn't just a gift—it's a skill you can build.What you'll hear:Memory is a skill that can be developed and improved.There is no limit to human memory; the more you know, the easier it is to learn new things.Chester trained for the memory championship like an Olympic athlete.Memory techniques can help minimize the use of notes during presentations.Maintaining eye contact during meetings enhances professional relationships.Visual representation aids in memory retention.Involving multiple senses can strengthen memory connections.Making information unusual or extraordinary helps in remembering it.Memory skills can significantly impact personal and professional success.Chester offers online memory training resources for those interested.Chapters00:00 – Intro: What happens when memory becomes your superpower?01:13 – Meet Chester Santos: U.S. Memory Champion & “International Man of Memory”02:30 – Why Memory Is an Overlooked Professional Skill03:08 – Clear the Air: Chester’s surprising answers05:38 – From 2020 Segment to Memory Champion08:00 – What It Takes to Win a Memory Championship10:20 – Self-Taught Success: Training like an Olympian11:10 – What Happens at a Memory Championship? (Hint: Decks of Cards)13:00 – What Science Says About Super Memory14:35 – Real-World Applications: Business, Sales, and Public Speaking20:25 – Ditching To-Do Lists and Meeting Notes—Seriously26:00 – 3 Core Principles to Improve Your Memory Today30:00 – Interactive Exercise: The Story Method Memory Challenge35:00 – How to Apply Memory Skills to Presentations37:15 – How You Can Train with Chester39:20 – Where to Find Chester Online40:15 – Fun Questions: Blockbuster, Chinatown Suitcases & Target Electronics

How did Jason Olsen take a lightbulb idea of improving salon suite experiences to a nationwide franchise with 120 locations? In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa sits down with Jason, the founder and CEO of Image Studios, to explore his remarkable journey from running a $100M used car dealership to building and scaling his business. Jason shares how the 2008 recession pushed him to rethink his future and the lessons he learned in creating a recession-resilient, asset-light business. From negotiating leases and launching on credit cards to creating a franchise model that empowers beauty professionals, this episode is a masterclass in entrepreneurial grit, real estate savvy, and franchise growth.What you'll hear:How Jason pivoted from the auto industry to the beauty and real estate spaceWhy salon suites are a recession-resistant business modelThe key strategies behind scaling from one location to a national franchiseInsights on site selection, lease negotiation, and supporting franchisee profitabilityChapters00:00 Introduction to Jason Olson and Image Studios02:02 The Journey to Founding Image Studios05:59 Lessons from the Automotive Industry11:53 Building a Unique Business Model15:56 The Launch of Image Studios22:11 Franchising and Expansion30:01 Current Operations and Future Growth

Is the expansion of specialty retailers surprising? Ultimately, physical stores remain vital for consumer interaction and brand loyalty.In this episode of 'What's in Store', Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono explore the reasons behind the success of physical stores in an increasingly digital world, emphasizing the importance of customer experience, pricing strategies, and the discovery element in retail. The conversation highlights how various sectors, including cell phones, fashion, and home improvement, continue to thrive in physical retail despite the convenience of online shopping.Takeaways:Batteries Plus is expanding despite being a commodity item.Physical stores drive traffic and offer better pricing for many items.Customer experience and service are crucial in retail success.Retailers are using stores for fulfillment and distribution.The gap between online and in-store prices is widening.Consumers prefer the immediacy of physical stores for urgent needs.Discovery of new products is easier in-store than online.Retailers benefit from having a physical presence in a market.Physical retail is more valuable now than pre-COVID.The relationship built in-store cannot be replicated online.

What's a 1031 exchange and how can you use it to make money in real estate? In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa sits down with 1031 exchange expert David Foster to demystify one of real estate’s most powerful wealth-building tools. David, a seasoned Qualified Intermediary (QI), breaks down how 1031 exchanges allow investors to legally defer capital gains taxes when selling and reinvesting in real estate. From common pitfalls (don’t call after the sale!) to best practices and market trends, David shares insider knowledge gleaned from decades of experience and thousands of transactions.Takeaways:A 1031 exchange allows investors to defer taxes on profits from real estate sales.Qualified intermediaries (QIs) are essential for facilitating 1031 exchanges.Documentation and compliance with IRS regulations are critical in 1031 exchanges.The best time to involve a QI is when a property is under contract for sale.Costs for QIs are generally reasonable and vary by location.Market conditions can significantly impact the effectiveness of 1031 exchanges.Investors should be aware of depreciation and its impact on taxable gains.The 1031 exchange has historical roots in supporting agricultural growth.Strategic asset selection is key to successful 1031 exchanges.Over-leveraging can lead to challenges in executing a 1031 exchange.Chapters00:00 Introduction to 1031 Exchanges04:57 Understanding the Role of a Qualified Intermediary09:32 The Process of a 1031 Exchange14:42 Cost and Value of 1031 Exchanges19:14 Market Trends and 1031 Exchanges24:19 Challenges and Lessons from 1031 Exchanges27:02 Fun Questions and Conclusion

It's Shawarma with Swagger, and it's coming to America. From humble beginnings in London, Ontario, to a thriving restaurant chain with over 64 locations, Tahini’s is now poised for U.S. expansion—fueled by innovative flavors, a massive social media following, and a franchise model centered around local ownership and community engagement. This week, Chris Ressa talks with Tahini's Founder and CEO Omar Hamam and Business Development Officer Shawn Saraga, on the big plans the company has in the U.S. Takeaways:From One Store to a Franchise EmpireOmar Hamam grew Tahini’s from a single restaurant into 64+ locations—and he’s just getting started.U.S. Expansion Is UnderwayFirst U.S. locations are launching in Illinois, New Jersey, Baltimore, and Miami—with 100 planned in 2–3 years.Fusion-Forward MenuTahini’s blends Mediterranean staples with bold global flavors—think butter chicken shawarma and smoked brisket.Massive Social FollowingWith 5M+ followers and 12M weekly views, Tahini’s built U.S. demand before opening a single U.S. store.Owner-Operator Franchise ModelThey reject master franchises—every franchisee must be hands-on, local, and deeply involved in the community.Built for Delivery and Late NightMost locations are fast-casual with strong off-premise sales—and 70% stay open until 2 a.m.Real Estate Sweet SpotIdeal sites: grocery-anchored centers, 1,200–2,000 SF, with smart infill and non-traditional site flexibility.Healthier, Guilt-Free EatsFresh, grilled, and made-to-order—Tahini’s hits the crave factor without the fast-food regret.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tahini's and Founders' Backgrounds07:53 Expansion Journey and Franchise Model10:51 Store Concept and Market Positioning13:31 Innovative Menu and Unique Offerings16:10 Social Media Influence and Brand Awareness18:45 Franchisee Selection and Community Engagement22:12 Owner-Operator Approach to Expansion24:06 Future Growth and Market Strategy28:54 Health-Conscious Menu and Customer Appeal

In this Retail Retold Replay, Chris Ressa dives into the winding path of a complex lease deal at a DLC shopping center in Cheektowaga, NY — where Five Below ultimately took the space, but not before a rollercoaster of negotiations, tenant terminations, and lessons in legal vs. physical possession.The story starts with Office Depot downsizing, a prospective tenant backing out, and ends with a successful Five Below opening. Along the way, you'll hear why contingencies in commercial real estate deals are everything — and how timing, relationships, and flexibility can turn a near-miss into a win.A must-listen for anyone in leasing, development, or deal-making.Takeaways:Buy now, pay later options are on the rise and appealing to younger consumers, and retailers are investing heavily in buy now, pay later platforms.Supply chain challenges can vary based on ordering behaviors. Retailers who continued ordering during the pandemic are better positioned.Five Below's entry into Cheektowaga, NY involved complex negotiations.Possession in commercial real estate can be legally defined but physically contested.The importance of having tenants who are committed to their locations.Understanding the contingencies in real estate agreements is crucial.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Retail Retold02:47 The Buy Now, Pay Later Craze05:40 Supply Chain Insights08:20 The Five Below Story

Through the lens of a single neighborhood shopping center in Lawrenceville, GA, Chris Ressa lays out a compelling story of what’s happening across retail real estate today—and why the industry isn’t just surviving, it’s thriving.Despite headlines about disruption and store closures, America is undersupplied when it comes to retail space, and demand is surging. In Lawrenceville, post-COVID success triggered a leasing domino effect that brought in over 40,000 SF of new tenants and added nearly $800K in NOI.Takeaways:The power of low supply and high demand and how it’s reshaping site competition A behind-the-scenes look at a grocery-anchored center’s three-year transformationThe diverse, modern tenant mix redefining “normal” retail—think healthcare, beauty, food, and auto alongside legacy brandsHow smart reinvestment and strong market forces create a flywheel of growthWhy traditional metrics like “retail per capita” miss the mark in today's environmentChapters00:00 Retail Real Estate Fundamentals Post-COVID05:23 The Lawrenceville Case Study: A Retail Success Story09:28 The Evolution of Retail Tenant Mix

SummaryIn this episode of What's in Store, Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono hold their feet to the fire—revisiting bold predictions made at ICSC to see what held up, what flopped, and what’s next. From the unshakable rise of value retail to the surge in food and beverage concepts, they dissect the real trends shaping retail today. They dig into the tug-of-war between experiential and convenience, the true state of omnichannel, and why sustainability is more than a buzzword. It's a candid, no-fluff look at where retail is heading—and how close they came to calling it right.TakeawaysThe retail industry is experiencing a tight supply and high demand for space.Experiential retail is evolving, but convenience remains a priority for consumers.Omnichannel retailing has become a standard expectation for most retailers.Sustainability initiatives are not currently driving business decisions in real estate.Redevelopment and repurposing of properties are slower than anticipated due to various challenges.Food and beverage concepts are thriving, with a notable increase in coffee sales.Value retailing continues to be a strong focus for consumers amid economic pressuresThe conversation around tariffs and AI was less prominent than expected at ICSC.Mixed-use developments are still a hot topic, but execution remains challenging.Predictions for the future should consider longer timelines for significant changes.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Retail and Real Estate Predictions04:58 Reflections on ICSC Predictions09:52 Supply and Demand Dynamics in Retail15:08 Experiential vs. Convenience Retail19:54 The State of Omnichannel Retailing25:00 Sustainability and ESG Initiatives29:56 Repurposing and Mixed-Use Developments33:47 Food and Beverage TrendsEnjoy the show! Remember to rate and review!

It's an exciting time at DLC. In a perfect case study of how our vertically integrated team executes in unlocking the value of real estate, Chris Ressa interviews Jack Rosencrans, Vice President of Development at DLC, about DLC's foray into self-storage development in Columbus, OH. The conversation covers the rise of self-storage as a viable asset class, the strategic decision to enter the Columbus market, the development process, including zoning approvals, underwriting, and construction challenges, as well as the early performance of the facility post-opening. Jack shares insights on the market dynamics, the importance of data in decision-making, and the potential for future self-storage projects at DLC.TakeawaysSelf-storage has become a lucrative asset class post-COVID.Columbus was chosen for its under-supply of self-storage.DLC utilized in-house capabilities for construction and development.Zoning approvals were a significant part of the development process.The project faced scrutiny and required thorough feasibility studies.Underwriting involved collaboration with established operators like CubeSmart.Value engineering was crucial to manage construction costs.The facility opened ahead of schedule and is performing well.Local market knowledge was key in securing financing.DLC sees potential for more self-storage developments in the future.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Self-Storage Development01:59 The Rise of Self-Storage as an Asset Class04:59 Market Analysis: Why Columbus?09:10 Navigating the Development Process12:04 Underwriting and Financial Considerations14:51 Construction Challenges and Solutions21:13 Opening and Early Performance23:54 Future of Self-Storage at DLC

In this episode of Retail Retold, host Chris Ressa speaks with Peyton Thomas, Vice President of Construction at Renovo Construction. They discuss Peyton’s unique journey from a career in acting to construction, the innovative approaches Renovo takes in the general contracting industry, and the challenges faced during the construction of a Dick’s Sporting Goods store in Ithaca, NY. The conversation highlights the importance of partnerships in the industry and how Renovo aims to build strong relationships with clients and tenants.What you'll hear:Renovo focuses on providing a professional approach to contracting.The company aims to align with landlords’ and tenants’ goals.Creative problem-solving is essential in construction projects.Weather conditions can significantly impact construction schedules.Design changes can complicate project timelines.Team communication is crucial during construction challenges.Building relationships with clients is a priority for Renovo.Trust is fundamental in contractor-client relationships.Renovo’s experience enhances its partnership with DLC.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Peyton Thomas and Renovo02:58 Peyton’s journey from acting to construction05:57 Understanding Renovo’s unique position in the market09:07 Building two projects at once – Dick’s Sporting Goods in Ithaca, NY12:05 Navigating the challenges of changing designs and personnel15:01 Future growth is built by building partnerships

In this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa discusses the current state of the retail market, highlighting growth in retail sales and the implications of recent bankruptcies. He shares a detailed case study of a redevelopment project in Lockport, New York, where a vacant Walmart was transformed into a multi-tenant property. Ressa emphasizes the importance of creativity and adaptability in commercial real estate, offering valuable lessons learned from the project.What you'll hear:Retail sales showed growth at the end of 2024, exceeding expectations.Bankruptcies like Party City provide insights into market dynamics.There is a persistent shortage of retail space in America.Creative solutions can lead to successful retail developments.Adapting to market changes is crucial for success in real estate.Getting ahead early in a project increases the chances of success.Collaboration between parties can yield innovative outcomes.The transformation of a single property can enhance community optionsUnderstanding consumer behavior is key to retail success.Flexibility in strategy is essential in a changing market.Chapters00:00 Retail Market Overview and Trends04:54 Case Study: Lockport, New York Redevelopment10:06 Lessons Learned from Retail Development

SummaryIn this episode of What's in Store, Chris Ressa and Karly Iacono are building up the buzz leading into ICSC Las Vegas—the "Super Bowl" of retail real estate. It's not just about big deals; it's about the mindsets of the retailers, landlords, and other industry stakeholders. The trio of hot topics? Tariffs, AI, and supply-demand warfare. While tariffs continue to ripple uncertainty, AI's footprint in site selection and real estate decisions is exploding, despite concerns over its imperfections. On the ground, the supply crunch is forcing retailers to get creative—even snapping up bankrupt spaces just to get in the game. Ressa and Iacono see Vegas as a litmus test for who's truly playing offense in this market squeeze. TakeawaysThe Real Estate Gala showcased a diverse group of non-institutional investors.Tariffs are a significant concern, with varying opinions on their impact.Retailers are generally optimistic and sticking to expansion plans despite challenges.Artificial intelligence is becoming ubiquitous in business operations.There is a need for consolidation in AI tools to avoid inefficienciesSupply and demand dynamics are still favoring landlords in retail real estate.Retailers are being creative in accessing real estate despite constraints.The conversation around tariffs and AI will dominate discussions at ICSC.Investors are anxious about the impact of tariffs on retailer earnings.New concepts in retail are emerging, but traditional methods still hold value.Chapters00:00 Insights from the Real Estate Gala04:07 Leading into the retail real estate Super Bowl, ICSC Las Vegas06:00 The Impact of Tariffs on Retail13:45 Artificial Intelligence in Retail26:12 Supply and Demand Dynamics in Retail

Your best new tenant might be sitting right above your head. On this episode of Retail Retold, Chris Ressa is joined by Bill Fitzgerald of Radial Power to reveal a game-changing secret for retail landlords: your rooftop is prime real estate. Backed by industry heavyweights like Starwood and Related, Radial Power is turning unused roof space into pure NOI with zero CapEx. Forget about just cutting costs—solar is adding revenue streams, hitting ESG goals, and future-proofing properties.Bill breaks down how Radial operates as a tenant, not just a service, paying you for your roof space and handling everything from installation to energy sales. This is rooftop leasing redefined, and it’s supercharging the balance sheets of forward-thinking landlords.Ready to make your roof work for you? Tune in now.TakeawaysBill Fitzgerald has been in solar for about seven years.Radial Power helps drive sustainability through rooftop solar.Solar can drive value add and increase net operating income (NOI).There are two main ways to operate solar on properties: ownership or leasing.Radial Power operates as a rooftop tenant, managing all costs and risks.Monetization of solar includes selling electricity and environmental credits.Regulatory environments significantly impact solar operations and pricing.Solar energy is geographically sensitive due to varying regulations.Solar providers like Radial Power are often misunderstood as sellers of solar systems.Solar installations can create additional NOI without upfront capital expenditures.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Solar and Retail Real Estate02:45 Understanding Radial Power's Mission04:56 Exploring Solar Ownership Models08:47 Monetizing Solar Assets13:39 Regulatory Challenges in Solar Energy