CBL focuses on local tenants in its new mall campaign

Though scores of national brand retailers populate the 100-plus malls and outdoor centers CBL Properties operates in 24 states, the Chattanooga, Tenn.-based company likes to point out that some 1,300 of its tenants are locally owned businesses.

“Building relationships with local entrepreneurs and helping them realize their dream to open a brick-and-mortar location has always been a foundational component of our business,” said CEO Stephen Lebovitz.

Now CBL will be spreading the word about its native business in a TV and social media campaign entitled “We Are Local.” Spots will feature popular tenants such as Bourbon Creek at Fayette Mall in Lexington, Ky., Bo2S Lady Designs at West Towne Mall in Madison, Wis., and Mason & Magnolia at Coastal Grand in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

“Customers don’t always realize that when they visit their hometown mall, they are supporting local businesses and bringing the dreams of local entrepreneurs to fruition,” Lebovitz said.