Where We Buy: Retail Real Estate with James Cook

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: 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.  

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: 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.  

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: 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.  

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: 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.  

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: 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.