Where We Buy: Retail Real Estate with James Cook

Adam Rinella, Vice President of Real Estate & Development at Goop Kitchen, shares insights on the brand’s unique journey from a delivery-only concept to a robust dining experience. He discusses the innovative site prototypes, including ghost kitchens and flagship locations, crafted for optimal dining and delivery. Adam highlights the importance of high-quality ingredients, the balance of their indulgent gluten-free menu, and Gwyneth Paltrow's hands-on involvement in design and operations. Plans for expansion to New York and beyond reveal ambitious growth in major markets.

Ben Seidl, Co-founder and CEO of Autolane, dives into the transformative world of autonomous vehicles and retail. He brilliantly unpacks the 'last 50 feet' challenge for driverless cars, likening their operation to air traffic control, ensuring smooth curbside pickups. Seidl shares insights on partnerships with Simon Property Group and the complexities of integrating with various automakers. Plus, he unveils innovative concepts like self-delivery and the expansion to robotic orchestration. A peek into the future of retail and the road ahead for autonomous commerce!

Rene Federico is US Head of Marketing at Primark, the global fashion retailer known for its affordable, stylish offerings. Federico discusses Primark's growth in the US, including its expansion plans and the unique in-store experience that sets the brand apart. She shares insights on adapting Primark's messaging for American consumers, the importance of brick-and-mortar retail, and the company's first US brand campaign. Federico also covers strategies for building brand awareness, the role of social media and influencer marketing, and what shoppers can expect when visiting a Primark store. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Listen: WhereWeBuy.show Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here: http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.

Alex Avery is CEO of Primaris, the only Canadian REIT focused exclusively on enclosed shopping centers. Alex discusses Primaris REIT's growth strategy, recent acquisitions, and the unique dynamics of the Canadian mall market. He explains the company's approach to capital allocation, the importance of scale in mall ownership, and how Primaris REIT is navigating the evolving retail landscape. Avery also covers the impact of department store closures, the role of entertainment and technology in shopping centers, and what makes for a dominant mall in Canada. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Listen: WhereWeBuy.show Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com Watch video podcasts and retail research tours here: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here: http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.

Howard Levine and Camilo Varela, Managing Partners at Second Horizon Capital, share their innovative approach to revitalizing struggling malls into vibrant community hubs. They discuss the timing of their investments post-COVID and reveal the importance of community engagement in their projects. Their successful strategies include transforming traditional retail spaces, enhancing sustainability, and creating engaging local events. They emphasize the challenges positive impact investing presents, while showcasing their commitment to both community enrichment and sound financial returns.

Rob Gerbitz is President and CEO at Hendricks Commercial Properties, LLC, a company known for transforming historic sites into vibrant destinations. Gerbitz shares the story behind Hendricks Commercial Properties' growth, the company's approach to adaptive reuse, and the vision that drives projects like the Ironworks Campus in Beloit, Wisconsin, the Bottleworks District in Indianapolis, and the BoDo District in Boise. He discusses the legacy of founders Diane and Ken Hendricks, the importance of community collaboration, and the challenges and rewards of redeveloping iconic properties. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Listen: WhereWeBuy.show Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here: http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.

Chuck Stilley, Eva Mui, and Mark McDonald are the team behind The Cinema Bridge, a consulting group with decades of experience in the movie theater industry, including leadership roles at AMC Theatres. They discuss the evolving landscape of cinema in the wake of the pandemic, the challenges and opportunities facing theater operators, and the impact of changing consumer habits. The conversation covers box office recovery, the rise of premium formats and alternative content, and how theaters are adapting within shopping centers. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Listen: WhereWeBuy.show Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here: http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.

James chats with Prateek Misra, head of Luxury and Food & Beverage for India at JLL. They discuss the complexities and opportunities for international retailers entering the Indian market, which is home to over 1.4 billion people with a significant portion under 35 years old. Prateek highlights the importance of local partnerships and understanding diverse consumer preferences across India's regions. They explore successful strategies, such as market research, establishing Global Capability Centers (GCCs), and adapting product offerings. Examples include McDonald's localized vegetarian burgers and Uniqlo's culturally adapted clothing. Prateek also emphasizes the growing spaces for e-commerce, QSR, fast fashion, and experiential retail, offering insights into the best practices and potential pitfalls for foreign brands looking to succeed in India. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Listen: WhereWeBuy.show Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here: http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.

Ryan Rao is Chief Development Officer at VIO Med Spa, an expanding chain in the medical aesthetics industry. Rao discusses the company's nationwide growth, the factors driving consumer demand for med spa services, and VIO's unique approach to site selection and real estate. He explains how VIO Med Spa differentiates itself through its retail-focused locations, spa-like environment, and comprehensive service offerings, including injectables, skin rejuvenation, and wellness treatments. Rao also covers the importance of franchisee selection, the impact of private equity investment from Freeman Spogli, and the company's strategies for building brand consistency and operational excellence across its growing network. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Listen: WhereWeBuy.show Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com YouTube: http://everythingweknow.show/ Read more retail research here: http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.

Join the fun at Retail Uncorked Orlando, where James talks with panelists and attendees, sharing insights on retail real estate and industry trends. Plus, market tour adventures, signature drinks and favorite rock anthems. Holly Cohen, Holly Cohen Retail Advisory Services discusses her extensive career in retail real estate, her advisory work on the redevelopment of Sarasota Square Mall, and the evolving needs of brands and landlords in today's market. Alyssa Bloemsma, JOE & THE JUICE shares the story of JOE & THE JUICE's rapid expansion in Florida, the brand's identity-driven approach, and how social media and celebrity partnerships fuel their growth. Whitney Livingston, ICSC talks about leading ICSC as COO through modernization, the importance of innovation and adaptability in retail, and new initiatives to broaden the organization's reach and relevance. Evie Gross, Brixmor Property Group & Ashley Casey, Phillips Edison & Company are the brains behind Retail Uncorked. They reflect on the origins and unique format of the event, emphasizing its casual, community-building atmosphere and the value of authentic industry connections. Plus special appearances from David Spawn with Brixmor and Keisha Virtue with JLL. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Watch the video of this episode on YouTube. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Listen: WhereWeBuy.show Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com Read more retail research here: http://www.us.jll.com/retail Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.