Retail real estate execs place winning bets at RECon

A record 36,000 retail real estate professionals are gathering in Las Vegas this week for the annual RECon conference where for an intense few days they will exchange ideas -- doing deals and showcase hot projects against the backdrop of a challenging retail sales environment and heightened omnichannel activity.



Despite some crosscurrents and a tepid U.S. economic growth, the already massive RECon conference organized by the International Council of Shopping Centers is poised to be the largest ever. The event features four full days dedicated to professional development, educational sessions, and networking opportunities on an expansive show floor with roughly 1,000 exhibitors. ICSC estimates that approximately 50% of all industry deals are conceived of or consummated at RECon.



In addition to deal making, a new component added to this year’s show is reflective of the technology influence affecting all of retail. ICSC added an area called the Technology Lab that will provide attendees a firsthand look at the future of real estate and retail technology. The new aspect of the show offers attendees an opportunity to mingle with a select group of cutting-edge technology companies who are poised to innovate in the real estate industry in 2016. The companies will compete for the title of “the next big thing” from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Monday and Tuesday at the Westgate Hotel.



Those unable to attend RECon can stay abreast of show development on ICSC’s YouTube channel and via iTunes Podcasts.