The Beman Group recently attended the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) conference in Charlotte, NC, marking a significant opportunity for our team. Typically spanning two days, the conference begins with an evening tailored for intimate networking events hosted by larger national and regional real estate firms. We were privileged to receive an invitation from one such firm with whom we were actively negotiating a deal. This pre-conference evening provided invaluable opportunities to network in a relaxed setting. The following day, held at the Charlotte Convention Center, offered a rich tapestry of networking and knowledge acquisition. The convention floor featured nearly 90 broker and real estate professional booths alongside close to 40 retailer booths.
Attendees were treated to presentations by speakers addressing current market trends and pertinent real estate topics throughout the day. One recurring challenge we encounter is identifying the right contacts within larger national and regional companies when presenting properties for potential partnerships. ICSC provided a unique opportunity to establish direct connections with decision-makers, streamlining our process and enhancing efficiency. By engaging with retailer representatives, we gauged their interest in the Augusta market and showcased our listings effectively. Furthermore, meeting with brokers representing specific retailers facilitated mutually beneficial exchanges, potentially opening doors for future collaborations.
Key takeaway from ICSC-Charlotte 2024:
1. Connect with peers, exchange insights on various deals, and
2. Lay the groundwork for potential future collaborations.
3. Engaging with brokers primarily from South Carolina markets like Greenville, Charleston, and Aiken
4. Expanded our understanding of deal dynamics and inspired us to adapt similar strategies in our own market.
Key 2024 Industry Statistics:
Overall, participating in ICSC proved to be an enriching experience, fostering relationships poised to yield future deals. The Beman Group anticipates substantial benefits from these connections, ultimately enhancing our ability to serve our clients by facilitating property leasing or sales.