Episode notes
In this episode of 'Behind the Lease', we sit down with retail real estate expert Jeremy Zidell for an in-depth look at his career journey, current brand collaborations, and a definitive breakdown of two major retail markets: Dallas's Knox Street and the massive, highly-curated Dublin Village project in Columbus.
The Dublin Village Project
Zidell details the vision for Dublin Village, a project driven by the desire for highly curated, artisan projects that offer an alternative to traditional centers like Easton Town Center.
- Scale and Delivery: The project is approximately 135,000 square feet of gross leasable area (GLA). It is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2028 and will likely include both retail and office components.
- Targeted Mix: The vision focuses on best-in-class food and beverage (F&B), instructor-led fitness, and a smaller format furniture component.
- Fashion DNA: The fashion component will span contemporary brands through the lower end of luxury, citing Reformation, Rag & Bone, and Alice + Olivia as examples.
Knox Street and Henderson Avenue Insights
Zidell contrasts the distinct "DNA" of two key Dallas retail neighborhoods:
- Knox Street: Analogized to a combination of New York's SoHo and Madison Avenue, the environment is described as polished and regal. Zidell predicts that in five years, Knox will be a much taller, denser version of itself, becoming an "ecosystem and de facto small city unto itself".
- Henderson Avenue: Inspired by Abbott Kinney architecture, this market aims for a more ingratiated feel within the East Dallas community. It is expected to maintain a "cool kid" nature with lower-end contemporary aspirational brands.
Evolution of Brand-Side Decision Making
Zidell notes a significant shift in brand leasing decisions, emphasizing that decision-makers are now hyperfocused on the quality, resume, and track record of developers and deal sponsors. He highlights that while data is key, the business remains heavily reliant on relationships and placing trust in the "jockey" (developer) behind a project to subtract risk from the equation.
Career Path and Brand Collaborations
Learn about Zidell's start in retail real estate 22 years ago, which began unexpectedly after working in the restaurant business at Mi Cocina. He was hired alongside David Fazio as one of The Retail Connection's first interns.
Today, his team works with brands considered the "darlings of their category", including Equinox, Pura Vida, Papa's Bagel, Sézane, Framebridge, and Boll & Branch.