Where We Buy: Retail Real Estate with James Cook
Where We Buy is a show about the things we buy and the places we buy them. Listen in as we tour top retail places and talk to fascinating people. James Cook researches retail and real estate for JLL.
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The One with Central Perk - Where We Buy #376
03/27/2026
The One with Central Perk - Where We Buy #376
Phil Colicchio is co-founder of Central Perk Coffee Company and head of Colicchio Consulting. Phil shares the origin story of how a pitch meeting at Warner Bros. about a sandwich concept unexpectedly led to a license for the globally iconic Central Perk brand from the hit TV show Friends. He discusses the challenges of raising capital without owning the intellectual property, the decision to test the concept in Boston before opening in Times Square, and lessons learned from early operational mistakes. He also covers the company's growth plans, its hub-and-spoke expansion strategy, and why quality and hospitality remain at the core of the brand. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. This interview was recorded at Entertainment Experience Evolution 2026, a conference by InterFace Conference Group, which is a division of France Media Inc. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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AI Doesn't Replace Human Judgment in Retail Real Estate - Where We Buy #375
03/24/2026
AI Doesn't Replace Human Judgment in Retail Real Estate - Where We Buy #375
Paul Sill uses data and predictive analytics to help retailers, restaurants, and other brick-and-mortar businesses make site selection decisions. Paul explains the critical difference between correlation and causation in retail data, explaining that misreading data can lead to costly mistakes. He also discusses how new data sources like social media behavior and mobile foot traffic are shaping modern site selection, why AI still can't replace human judgment in real estate modeling, and the importance of validating instincts with data. Paul, who also teaches at DePaul University, emphasizes that good analytics are about mitigating risk, not providing easy answers. Paul Sill is Managing Director and Head of the Visionary Insights Group at JLL, James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Chicago: the Magnificent Mile and Beyond - Where We Buy #374
03/20/2026
Chicago: the Magnificent Mile and Beyond - Where We Buy #374
Walter Wahlfeldt is Midwest Retail Lead at JLL. He discusses the state of retail real estate in Chicago, from the recovery of the central business district to the evolving Magnificent Mile. He covers return-to-office trends, shifting retail rents, the grocery wars heating up in the market, and what makes Chicago a top-five destination for expanding retailers. Wahlfeldt also shares lessons from his own experience as a former bakery owner and what he looks for when evaluating retail concepts. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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From Donation Centers to Boutiques with Planet Aid - Where We Buy #373
03/13/2026
From Donation Centers to Boutiques with Planet Aid - Where We Buy #373
Uli Stosch is Chief Officer of Strategic Development at Planet Aid, Inc., a nonprofit organization that collects and resells used clothing and textiles through nearly 10,000 donation bins across 15 states. Uli explains Planet Aid's mission to divert textiles from landfills, support reuse over recycling, and fund sustainable development projects worldwide. She discusses the logistics of placing donation centers in retail locations, including lease negotiations with shopping center owners, ideal site characteristics, and overcoming industry challenges. She also covers Planet Aid's innovative solar-powered donation centers with security cameras, ESG reporting benefits for landlords, the growing textile waste crisis, extended producer responsibility laws, and the organization's curated resale store called The Loop. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Tous les Jours' Path to 1,000 US Locations - Where We Buy #372
03/06/2026
Tous les Jours' Path to 1,000 US Locations - Where We Buy #372
Taeyun Kim is Chief Development Officer at CJ Foodville US, the parent company of Tous les Jours, a French-Asian bakery cafe chain with over 180 locations across 31 states. Taeyun discusses the company's ambitious expansion plans to reach 1,000 stores by 2030, explaining the brand's unique positioning as a neighborhood bakery offering fresh-baked pastries and bread with European and Asian influences. She covers the franchise-driven growth model, ideal real estate requirements (3,000 square feet in prominent locations), and the recent opening of a state-of-the-art production facility in Gainesville, Georgia to support supply chain stability. She also shares insights on menu innovation, the Korean bakery tradition, signature items like cloud cakes and salt bread, and her background in restaurant real estate development, including her work with Panda Restaurant Group, Argo Tea, and Wow Bao's ghost kitchen program during the pandemic. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Ian Scott's Guide to Unforgettable Retail - Where We Buy #371
03/01/2026
Ian Scott's Guide to Unforgettable Retail - Where We Buy #371
Ian Scott leads retail safaris around the world. He takes listeners on a virtual tour of six distinctive stores—from Fanatics Collectibles' interactive sports collectibles space in London to Buck Mason's immersive lifestyle store in New York, Larfeuille's artisanal leather workshop in Paris, Ffern's sensory fragrance boutique in London, Singapore's DORS at Design Orchard retail incubator, and Patagonia Action Works Cafe. Ian emphasizes the enduring value of physical retail, the importance of cross-sector inspiration, and how stores can create authentic experiences through storytelling, sensory engagement, and human connection. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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How [solidcore] Picks the Perfect Location - Where We Buy #370
02/20/2026
How [solidcore] Picks the Perfect Location - Where We Buy #370
Josh Rainey is Senior Director of Real Estate + Growth at [solidcore], a boutique fitness operator specializing in intense strength training workouts on custom-built reformers. [solidcore] expanded from 85 locations in 2022 to 165 today, with plans to reach 205 by the end of the year. He discusses [solidcore]'s target demographic of primarily women aged 25-35, the importance of community-driven fitness experiences, and the brand's focus on longevity and preventative wellness. Josh covers site selection strategy, ideal co-tenants like premium grocers and athleisure retailers, and how the company's corporate-owned model ensures consistency across all locations. He shares insights on real estate challenges including rising rents in Texas, the return of capital investment to retail, and the importance of creating third places that inspire curiosity and frequency. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Managing the Mixx: Creating Successful Live-Work-Play Destinations - Where We Buy #369
02/13/2026
Managing the Mixx: Creating Successful Live-Work-Play Destinations - Where We Buy #369
Sean McNamara leads The Mixx at JLL, a specialized platform for managing complex mixed-use developments across North America. McNamara explains the unique challenges of managing properties that combine office, retail, residential, hotel, and entertainment uses on a single site. He discusses the importance of creating a sense of place through strategic merchandising, placemaking, and activation, highlighting projects like Plaza Coral Gables in Florida and OCVIBE in Anaheim, California. McNamara covers the rise of sports-anchored mixed-use developments, the role of technology infrastructure, and how successful mixed-use projects can command premium rents when properly managed and activated. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Arte Museum Expands from South Korea to NYC, LA and Orlando - Where We Buy #368
02/06/2026
Arte Museum Expands from South Korea to NYC, LA and Orlando - Where We Buy #368
Julia Yook is General Manager of Arte Museum New York, a 52,000-square-foot immersive media art space at Chelsea Piers. Yook explains the museum's origins in South Korea in 2020, its expansion to locations worldwide including Las Vegas and upcoming sites in Los Angeles and Orlando, and the logistics of creating multisensory experiences that combine light, sound, scent, and spatial design. She covers the museum's 14 distinct zones, the proprietary technology behind interactive features like the sketch room and cafe experience, and how the creative team in Korea designs custom exhibitions for each location. Yook also discusses visitor demographics, corporate buyouts, and social media's role in driving attendance. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Asana Partners' Clare Walsh on Authentic Neighborhood Retail - Where We Buy #367
01/30/2026
Asana Partners' Clare Walsh on Authentic Neighborhood Retail - Where We Buy #367
Clare Walsh is Managing Director of Leasing Strategy at Asana Partners, a retail-focused investment firm with over $7 billion in assets under management. Walsh discusses the company's focus on neighborhood retail across the top 25 U.S. metropolitan areas, highlighting key properties in neighborhoods including Dallas Design District, Charlotte's South End, and Salt Lake City's East Bench. She covers current retail trends including the wellness economy, the rise of authentic Asian cuisine and beauty concepts, and the growing demand for small-format retail. Walsh also explains Asana Partners' active investment approach, the challenge of finding quality all-day cafes, and how experiential retail and AI-powered personalization are shaping the future of neighborhood shopping centers. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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The Gen X Shopper - Where We Buy #366
01/23/2026
The Gen X Shopper - Where We Buy #366
Stephanie Cegielski is Vice President, Research and Public Relations at ICSC, where she leads consumer research initiatives. Cegielski explains why Generation X—born between 1965 and 1980—represents a significant but overlooked opportunity for retailers and shopping center owners. Despite comprising only 19% of the U.S. population, Gen X accounts for a third of total consumer spending. She discusses Gen X shopping behaviors, including their preference for in-store experiences over online shopping, their resistance to social media influencer marketing, and their focus on high-dollar purchases like luxury goods. Joining the discussion are Ana Leon, Director of Retail Research at Nuveen; Mike Jordan, Director of Research at Big V Property Group; Gregg Katz, Director, Business Industry Solutions - Real Estate at Esri; and Meghann Martindale, Principal, Director Market Intelligence, Retail at Avison Young. The panel explores how Gen X's unique position as the "sandwich generation"—caring for aging parents while supporting their own children—drives their spending patterns, and why this generation's hybrid approach to technology makes them the ideal omnichannel consumer. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Canadian Retail Property Investment with Matt Smith - Where We Buy #365
01/21/2026
Canadian Retail Property Investment with Matt Smith - Where We Buy #365
Matthew Smith is the leader of retail investment in Canada for JLL, with 29 years of experience in Canadian capital markets. Smith discusses the current state of Canada's retail investment market, explaining why grocery-anchored centers remain the top investment choice for both domestic and international buyers. He covers the dominance of private capital in the market, the concentration of institutional investment in Canada's six primary markets, and the recent surge of activity in Alberta. Smith also addresses the impact of US tariffs on Canadian consumers and cross-border shopping patterns, the expansion plans of major Canadian grocery chains, and the challenges facing enclosed malls following Hudson's Bay's closure of all locations. He explores why shopping malls remain more central to Canadian retail than in the US, the slowdown in new retail construction, and the ripple effects of Canada's residential housing crisis on retail real estate investment. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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CEO Alan MacKenzie: Canada Retail is (Mostly) a Landlord's Market - Where We Buy #364
01/16/2026
CEO Alan MacKenzie: Canada Retail is (Mostly) a Landlord's Market - Where We Buy #364
Alan MacKenzie is CEO of JLL Canada, overseeing all business lines including capital markets, work dynamics, leasing, and property management across the country. MacKenzie shares his journey from founding a retail real estate company in 2000 to leading JLL's Canadian operations, including his work bringing Lowe's to Canada and representing Walmart. He discusses the current state of Canadian retail real estate, explaining why vacancy rates at top-tier malls are below 2% despite economic headwinds. MacKenzie also covers the impact of Hudson's Bay department store closures, the bifurcation in consumer spending behavior, and why Canada has been slower than the U.S. in returning to office. He explains the unique characteristics of the Canadian market, including stringent zoning policies, limited new construction, and strong immigration-driven demand that's creating a landlord's market in premium retail locations. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Inside Nando’s US Expansion - Where We Buy #363
01/09/2026
Inside Nando’s US Expansion - Where We Buy #363
Kimberly Grant, CEO of Nando’s PERi-PERi North America, and Ryan Welch, Director of Real Estate, join the show to discuss the fast-casual restaurant’s expansion across the United States. Grant and Welch share the story of Nando’s entry into the US market, the brand’s unique approach to hospitality, and the challenges of scaling operations while maintaining authenticity. They cover site selection strategy, customer experience, and the importance of community connection. The conversation also highlights Nando’s global cult following, menu adaptations, and the company’s commitment to creating career pathways for team members. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Nando’s and Beyond: Robbie Brozin’s Path from Founder to Changemaker - Where We Buy #362
01/05/2026
Nando’s and Beyond: Robbie Brozin’s Path from Founder to Changemaker - Where We Buy #362
Robert Brozin is co-founder of Nando’s, the global restaurant chain known for its flame-grilled peri-peri chicken. He left his corporate job to build Nando’s from a single Johannesburg location into an international brand. He discusses the company’s unique people-centric culture, the challenges and rewards of global expansion, and the importance of maintaining strong values and purpose. Brozin also delves into his philanthropic work, including the fight against malaria through Goodbye Malaria and his efforts to revitalize Johannesburg. The conversation covers Nando’s approach to menu innovation, marketing, and community impact, offering insights into building a brand that changes lives—one chicken at a time. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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StripMallGuy’s Standouts: Our Favorite Posts With Don Tepman - Where We Buy #361
12/19/2025
StripMallGuy’s Standouts: Our Favorite Posts With Don Tepman - Where We Buy #361
Don Tepman, President and Founder of TownCentre Capital and the voice behind the popular @StripMallGuy account, joins the show to revisit and unpack his most notable recent posts. In this episode, Don shares the stories, strategies, and lessons behind his standout social media moments, offering candid insights into the world of strip mall investing. From the power of site visits to the impact of social media on deal flow and the nuances of tax strategy, Don reflects on what makes certain posts resonate. He also discusses engaging with college students, the importance of mentorship, and how authenticity shapes both his online presence and investment approach. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Goop Kitchen: From Ghost Kitchens to IRL Flagships - Where We Buy #360
12/13/2025
Goop Kitchen: From Ghost Kitchens to IRL Flagships - Where We Buy #360
Adam Rinella is Vice President of Real Estate & Development at Goop Kitchen, the fast-growing, gluten-free fast casual restaurant brand launched by Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop. Rinella discusses Goop Kitchen’s origins as a delivery-only concept, its expansion to 13 locations in California, and plans for growth in New York and beyond. He explains the brand’s approach to menu development, site selection, and the challenges and opportunities of operating a celebrity-backed restaurant. Rinella also covers Goop Kitchen’s innovative prototypes, the importance of high-quality ingredients, and the role of partnerships in scaling the business. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Autolane's Fix For Autonomous Cars and Retail - Where We Buy #359
12/05/2025
Autolane's Fix For Autonomous Cars and Retail - Where We Buy #359
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. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Building the Primark Brand in America - Where We Buy #358
11/20/2025
Building the Primark Brand in America - Where We Buy #358
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: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Primaris REIT's $3.3 Billion Mall Buying Spree with CEO Alex Avery - Where We Buy #357
11/14/2025
Primaris REIT's $3.3 Billion Mall Buying Spree with CEO Alex Avery - Where We Buy #357
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: Email: jamesd.cook@jll.com Watch video podcasts and retail research tours here: Read more retail research here: Theme music is Run in the Night by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons license.
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Second Horizon's Community-Driven Approach to Revitalizing Malls - Where We Buy #356
11/07/2025
Second Horizon's Community-Driven Approach to Revitalizing Malls - Where We Buy #356
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. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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The Magic of Adaptive Reuse with Hendricks Commercial CEO Rob Gerbitz - Where We Buy #355
10/31/2025
The Magic of Adaptive Reuse with Hendricks Commercial CEO Rob Gerbitz - Where We Buy #355
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: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Reshaping Theaters in Retail Environments - Where We Buy #354
10/17/2025
Reshaping Theaters in Retail Environments - Where We Buy #354
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: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Decoding India's Retail Landscape - Where We Buy #353
10/09/2025
Decoding India's Retail Landscape - Where We Buy #353
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: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Exploring the Med Spa Boom with Ryan Rao of VIO Med Spa - Where We Buy #352
09/19/2025
Exploring the Med Spa Boom with Ryan Rao of VIO Med Spa - Where We Buy #352
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: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Live from Retail Uncorked Orlando! - Where We Buy #351
09/12/2025
Live from Retail Uncorked Orlando! - Where We Buy #351
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 . Subscribe: | Listen: Email: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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CEO Jeff Rosenberg: How Big V’s Values Shape Every Deal - Where We Buy #350
09/05/2025
CEO Jeff Rosenberg: How Big V’s Values Shape Every Deal - Where We Buy #350
Jeffrey Rosenberg is Chairman & CEO of Big V Property Group, a family-owned company with an 80-year history. Rosenberg discusses the company’s evolution from its origins as a single grocery store in New York state, to an owner and operator of open-air shopping centers, including The RIM in San Antonio and The Avenue Murfreesboro in Tennessee. He explains Big V’s approach to market research, the importance of core values, and the challenges of acquiring premium assets in today’s market. The conversation highlights Big V’s resilience through market cycles and its focus on long-term growth. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Onsite Energy Solutions for Commercial Real Estate - Where We Buy #349
08/29/2025
Onsite Energy Solutions for Commercial Real Estate - Where We Buy #349
James interviews Dan Roberts, co-founder of Veckta, a company that assists large commercial property owners in developing onsite energy systems. Roberts explains how Veckta identifies optimal sites for energy generation and storage, such as solar and battery systems. He details the economic benefits and processes for deploying these systems and highlights the platform's role in streamlining data collection and procurement. They also discuss various energy technologies, the impact of rising energy costs, and the importance of grid improvements. The conversation emphasizes the growing need for onsite energy solutions to cut costs and reduce carbon emissions. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Retail Real Estate Technology with Kinexio - Where We Buy #348
08/24/2025
Retail Real Estate Technology with Kinexio - Where We Buy #348
James interviews David Fuller-Watts of Kinexio about the challenges of managing retail properties and how technology, particularly AI, can streamline processes such as data collection and tenant communication. David shares his journey from founding a marketing agency to creating an enterprise property management solution. The conversation also touches on the future impact of AI on property management, the importance of enthusiasm in software adoption, and the role of Proptech in transforming the real estate industry. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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Montgomery, Alabama: Building a Retail and Economic Future - Where We Buy #347
08/17/2025
Montgomery, Alabama: Building a Retail and Economic Future - Where We Buy #347
James dives into the economic, historical, and retail landscape of Montgomery, Alabama, with Jerime Reid and Frank Robinson. Jerime, the Chief of Staff to the Mayor, and Frank, the Director of Economic Development, discuss Montgomery's pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement and its current status as a dynamic and diverse economy. The conversation covers the impact of Maxwell Air Force Base, the significance of tourism driven by historical sites, and the city's efforts to attract both local and national retail investments. They also highlight ongoing and upcoming development projects. The episode underscores Montgomery's strategic initiatives to create a business-friendly environment while preserving its rich history and culture. James Cook is the Director of Retail Research in the Americas for JLL. Subscribe: | Listen: Email: YouTube: Read more retail research here: Theme music is by The Good Lawdz, under Creative Commons .
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