Where We Buy: Retail Real Estate with James Cook

Ben Seidl, Co-Founder & CEO of Autolane, joins James Cook to discuss how Autolane is addressing the "last 50 feet" challenge for autonomous vehicles in retail environments. Seidl explains how Autolane's platform gives retailers and shopping center owners control over the final approach and parking of driverless cars, aiming to eliminate traffic jams and improve customer experience.

He shares insights on the company's collaboration with Simon Property Group, the logistics of deploying their technology at locations such as Stanford Shopping Center and Barton Creek Square, and the broader implications for delivery, curbside pickup, and the future of retail.

The conversation also covers the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicle regulation, the role of major automakers and tech companies, and Seidl's vision for a new era of "autonomous commerce."

James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.

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.

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.

Howard Levine and Camilo Varela are Managing Partners and Co-Founders of Second Horizon Capital, a company focused on revitalizing underinvested retail properties into vibrant community destinations. They discuss their approach to impact investment, the origins of Second Horizon Capital, and their growing portfolio of malls and lifestyle centers across the United States, including Chicago Ridge Mall and Stony Point Fashion Park. They share insights on community engagement, sustainability initiatives, and the challenges and rewards of transforming retail centers. The conversation also covers their investment philosophy, the importance of local partnerships, and the future of retail real estate.

James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL.

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.