REAL ESTATE

Howard Hughes Corporation announces new lease to be part of the revitalized Seaport District
New York -- Howard Hughes Corporation announced McNally Jackson Books will open a new location in 2017 at the iconic Seaport District in New York. The independent New York bookstore will set up shop in Schermerhorn Row along the cobblestoned streets of the historic district and bring a new literary experience to the Seaport with a refined and carefully curated selection of books, free interactive event programming, a café with outdoor seating and a family-friendly reading area for children to engage the growing residential community.
Ridge Hill adds nine new retailers
Ridge Hill Shopping Center, developed by Forest City Ratner Companies (FCRC), is expanding.

During the course of the last month, Yonkers, New York-based Ridge Hill added nine new retailers and attractions to its roster of tenants. In the first half of 2015, the center added a total of 50,000 sq. ft. of retail and restaurants, with an additional 15,000 sq. ft. of office space. Seasonal offerings will account for another 14,000 sq. ft. and the center is poised to add 10,000-sq.-ft. of permanent retail before the year ends.

Johnny Rockets targets three new global markets

Fast-casual dining chain Johnny Rockets is expanding its range to include customers in the countries of Italy, Paraguay and Canada.

As part of its strategy to double its global footprint by 2017, Johnny Rockets has signed agreements for 49 new restaurant locations in those three new markets. Some locations will open as early as 2016.
And the latest retailer to expand off-price is ...

It seems as though off-price is one of the few bright spots in traditional retail these days, so it's no wonder that Hudson’s Bay Company is adding another off-price concept to its portfolio.
First Look: Nike's new Michael Jordan showplace

Anyone who thinks Michael Jordan’s star may have dimmed in the 10-plus years since he retired from professional basketball, should think again.

Nike on Saturday, Oct. 24, in Chicago, debuts its first-ever store dedicated entirely to its Jordan Brand, and fans of the sports legend, along with sneaker enthusiasts, lined up for days in anticipation of the opening. Nike also plans to open Jordan Brand stores in additional locations, including New York, Los Angeles and Toronto.
Westfield adds tech talent to make mall digital

Mall owner Westfield Corporation has created a new big data and analytics unit and made a key hire to oversee the important function.

Westfield named Raghav Lal as its new chief data and analytics officer to lead a newly established big data and analytics group that will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing and deploying the company’s data strategy. The move is a significant hiring investment to centralize the company’s wealth of data effectively, efficiently and safely for its customers and retailers alike, Westfield said in a statement.
Cullman Shopping Center now 100% leased

Cullman, Ala. -- Merchants Retail Partners announced a milestone achievement for revitalized Cullman Shopping Center in Cullman, Alabama. The center recently reopened 100% leased with more than 400,000 sq. ft. of retail space.
1.2 million sq. ft. mixed-use Liberty Center opens in Cincinnati

Cincinnati -- Steiner + Associates and Bucksbaum Retail Properties opened their highly anticipated 1.2 million sq. ft. Liberty Center in Cincinnati. Liberty Center is one of the largest mixed-use projects to open in the U.S. this year.
Brixmor appoints new chief investment officer

New York -- Brixmor Property Group named Michael Hyun as its new chief investment officer and as a member of the Company's Management Committee, effective Dec. 14. Hyun will be responsible for the strategic and day-to-day oversight of business development, portfolio management and capital recycling for Brixmor.
Pioneer shopping center magnate passes away at 93

One of the shopping center industry's early stars—and a man who endured many hardships, including internment in a Nazi labor came, has died.