Retail expert Maria Royer (Principal at Real Retail) explores the unique "local first" consumer culture in Seattle where national restaurants struggle due to the strong foodie scene, high minimum wage, and "no tip credit" state status.

Maria, a true market authority and Principal at Real Retail, has been shaping the Seattle skyline for over 30 years. She is the force behind the retail strategies for iconic projects like Amazon's World Headquarters and Ranier Square, and the broker who brings global heavyweights like Uniqlo and Sephora into the market.

Maria spent 10 years working on Amazon's World Headquarters retail strategy, calling it a career high, and was focused on creating something local, unique, and beloved.

As a member of the President's Round Table for the Downtown Seattle Association, Maria confirms the retail ene ...