Leasing Tip of the Day: Nationals Need Even More Prep Legwork

Leasing Tip of the Day: Nationals Need Even More Prep Legwork

When pitching to national retailers, preparation is key—more so than with local stores. You’ve got to do your homework and be ready before you even think about reaching out. Here are some tips to make sure you’re prepared:

  • Know their existing locations: If they already have a store in your market and you don’t know, that’s a major red flag. Do your research.
  • Use LinkedIn: Follow national and regional players, track their new openings, and secure appointments at industry conferences like ICSC.
  • Set up Google Alerts: Stay up-to-date on retailers’ plans and use new information to re-start conversations.
  • Understand their demographics: Nationals have specific data points they care about. Don’t just throw out general info—tailor it to their needs.
  • Know their space requirements: Don’t offer a 5,000-square-foot space to a retailer that needs 75,000 square feet. Do your legwork.
  • Don’t overlook smaller chains: Today’s small-chain rep could be tomorrow’s big-box decision-maker. Treat everyone like a big player.

Pitching to nationals is all about preparation. The more you know, the better chance you’ll have of landing that deal!

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