From The Desk Of The CEO | Mar 17, 2025

Lessons from the Open-Air Conference: Standing Out in Retail

 

The chances are if you’ve seen one shopping center you’ve probably seen a mall. I’ll be here all week but seriously folks!

Lessons learned at the open air conference on how to distinguish your retail property …

As landlords , we know that creating a distinctive shopping center experience is crucial to attracting and retaining tenants, as well as keeping customers coming back. The retail landscape is evolving rapidly, and we must continuously adapt to stay ahead of the curve. Here’s how we, as landlords, can set our shopping centers apart in today’s competitive market. At Stark Enterprises these are a few things we focus on.

1. Curate Unique and Diverse Tenant Mix

Our shopping centers should offer more than just the typical retail stores. By carefully curating a mix of tenants that includes a blend of well-known brands, local businesses, and experiential retailers, we can create an environment that appeals to a wider range of shoppers. We’re committed to selecting tenants that add value to the community, bringing unique products and services that cater to different tastes and preferences.

2. Prioritize Customer Experience

In today’s retail world, experience is everything. We understand that customers want more than just a place to shop; they want an immersive experience that engages them on multiple levels. We can achieve this by investing in innovative design and thoughtful layouts that encourage exploration. From interactive digital signage to well-designed common areas and pop-up events, we can create an environment where customers feel welcome and excited to return.

3. Foster Community Engagement

Our shopping center can be a hub for community activities, supporting local events and initiatives that strengthen ties with the neighborhood. Whether it’s hosting local farmers’ markets, charity events, or family-friendly activities, we can ensure that our center becomes a place where people not only shop but connect. This sense of belonging can make our shopping center a destination, rather than just a place to make purchases.

4. Embrace Technology and Innovation

We recognize that technology plays an increasingly important role in shaping the retail experience. By integrating advanced technologies such as mobile apps for wayfinding, contactless payment systems, or even augmented reality experiences, we can make our shopping centers more convenient and engaging for customers. These innovations help create a modern, tech-savvy atmosphere that appeals to today’s shoppers.

5. Regularly Refresh and Evolve the Space

To maintain relevance, we must regularly update and refresh our shopping centers. We are committed to ongoing improvements, whether that means upgrading common areas, introducing new amenities, or even reimagining spaces to adapt to changing trends. By staying flexible and willing to evolve, we can ensure that our shopping centers remain fresh, modern, and appealing to both tenants and shoppers.

 

Sincerely,
Ezra Stark
Chief Executive Officer