Marketing

Oklahoma City -- GBT Realty Corp. announced the acquisition of 30 acres in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The site was purchased in January for $2.95 million. The company broke ground on development of the first phase of the $50 million The Market at Czech Hall, a 450,000-sq. ft. regional neighborhood center last week.

Phase one includes the construction of 180,000-sq. ft. of retail, along with seven outparcels. The first tenant expected to open fall 2016.

The commercial real estate community is somewhat of a paradox. For an industry that is literally built on the premise of creating new and exciting destinations, there is a tendency to do things the way they have always been done.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores has named a new leader for its loyalty and customer relationship management programs.

Steve Miller joins Jo-Ann Fabrics from McKinsey & Company, where he served global clients as an engagement manager within the premier consulting firm’s marketing and sales practice. His work as a project manager afforded him the opportunity to gain experience across all functional areas in leading retail and consumer organizations, which includes building CRM and loyalty programs for Fortune 500 companies.

The nation’s gambling capital is getting another high-end retail center, this one with Paris accents.

Wynn Las Vegas announced the development of Wynn Plaza, a 75,518-sq.-ft. luxury retail center. Debuting fall 2017, the complex will support the existing luxury retail collection at Wynn Las Vegas and Encore, as well as bring the shopping experience to the high traffic area bordering Las Vegas Boulevard.

The majority owner of Ollie’s Bargain Outlet is looking to reduce its stake in the company following a holiday season sales performance CEO Mark Butler characterized as thrilling.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores has added some human resources heft to its executive ranks.

DSW is expanding its e-commerce capabilities with a deal to acquire Ebuys Inc., an online off-price footwear retailer with a presence in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia.

DSW announced that the purchase price includes an upfront payment of $62.5 million as well as future payments contingent on the performance of Ebuys, Inc. The deal is expected to close within the next 30 days.

Honolulu -- The Howard Hughes Corp. marked another critical milestone for Ward Village located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The company broke ground on Ae‘o, a 466 unit mixed-use residential tower that will be anchored by a flagship Whole Foods Market.

Photo: (L-R) Eric Griffith, Michael Herman, Stephen Lebovitz, Rusty Carlton, Robert Snetman.

Chattanooga, Tenn. -- CBL announced the promotions of Rusty Carlton to VP of portfolio accounting; Eric Griffith to VP of mall leasing; Michael Herman to VP of legal services; and Robert Snetman to VP of asset management and third party services.

Cincinnati -- Phillips Edison & Company it has appointed Theresa (“Terry”) Shea as VP, assistant general counsel. In her new role, Shea will work closely with the general counsel to provide legal advice to the Company concerning all aspects of its business.