RCS Real Estate Advisors

#HappyThanksgiving from #RCSRealEstate Advisors! Today, we're grateful for our valued clients, dedicated partners and the incredible team that drives our success every day. At RCS, we’re proud to support retailers in reaching their goals and unlocking growth in communities across the nation. As we gather with friends and family, we want to express our deepest thanks to those who trust us with their business and to everyone who makes our work possible. Wishing you a holiday filled with warmth, gratitude and celebration!

Friday is the big day! For retailers, #BlackFriday is an opportunity to maximize store performance and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Here’s what to keep in mind as the doors open: 1. Optimize Store Layouts: Prepare for high foot traffic by enhancing store flow and strategically placing popular or highly sought after items. A seamless layout can boost sales and enhance the shopping experience. 2. Strategic Staffing & Space Management: Ensure optimal staffing to handle demand and leverage every square foot to showcase key merchandise without overcrowding. 3. Real-Time Adjustments: Adapt quickly to changing foot traffic and stock levels. A flexible space strategy can make all the difference in meeting customer expectations. Here at #RCSRealEstate we work with retailers to create #RealEstateStrategies that align with their seasonal and long-term goals. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/eu3yjUVz

As we dive into the holiday #Retail season, new consumer trends are emerging across the market. Even amid economic uncertainties, retail sales are on the rise, with momentum expected to grow post-election. Here’s a snapshot of the latest developments we’re tracking: The luxury sector is feeling the impact of shifting consumer preferences. High-end brands are experiencing a slowdown, while niche luxury labels that resonate with ultra-high-net-worth #consumers continue to perform strongly. Discretionary retail is holding steady, with mid-market brands maintaining their appeal. Some are even strategically expanding, signaling resilience and adaptability in today’s market landscape. Popularity shifts are impacting brand performance across the board, as emerging brands and well-performing stores actively pursue new retail opportunities. Meanwhile, brands experiencing unique comebacks demonstrate how consumer tastes continue to evolve. We’re closely monitoring these shifts at #RCSRealEstate and supporting clients as they navigate this dynamic environment. To learn more about RCS, visit: https://lnkd.in/eu3yjUVz

We’re excited to share that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware has formally accepted PureGym's $121 million offer for Blink Fitness' corporate operations and a substantial portion of its gyms in New York and New Jersey. This marks a key milestone in the process following PureGym’s successful bid at auction in late October. While the sale has not yet closed, RCS Real Estate Advisors is proud to continue supporting PureGym as its trusted #RealEstateConsultant and #LeaseNegotiationExperts. We are actively working to strategically reposition over 60 Blink Fitness locations, ensuring PureGym is well-positioned for success as the company expands its U.S. footprint. This #RCSPartnership reflects our expertise in restructuring and commitment to helping clients unlock value and seize opportunities in competitive markets. Learn more about our work here: www.rcsrealestate.com

Industry Insights from #RCSRealEstate. Following a period of economic uncertainty, the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut brings positive news for consumers and the #Retail sector. As lower rates gradually take effect, we anticipate a boost in consumer confidence and purchasing power, driving demand across retail markets. While the impact won’t be instantaneous, this strategic move reflects the Fed’s commitment to achieving a “soft landing” for the economy, fostering stability without significant downturns. This rate adjustment is expected to lay the groundwork for steady growth in #consumerspending — a key factor for sustained retail expansion. Lower borrowing costs mean consumers will have more disposable income, which could translate into higher spending on goods and services. Retailers are poised to benefit from this, as increased consumer demand supports both sales and broader economic momentum. With consumer spending comprising a significant portion of the economy, the Fed’s action is a positive sign, encouraging a strong close to the year for retail and bolstering confidence as we head into the #holidayseason.

ICSC’s 2024 Holiday Shopping Intentions Survey highlights some key trends for this season’s retail landscape. Despite economic challenges, consumers plan to spend an average of $870 on #HolidayShopping — a sign of resilient demand, but with a sharp focus on value. 61% of shoppers say they’re prioritizing deals and promotions more than last year, indicating that competitive pricing is essential. 78% of consumers plan to shop in-store, valuing the experience and convenience of physical retail locations. 56% plan to use mobile apps for deal-hunting and price comparisons, making seamless online-to-offline integration a must for retailers. At #RCSRealEstate, we’re supporting #retailers in optimizing store layouts, #leasestrategies, and in-store experiences to meet these evolving consumer expectations. With thoughtful real estate strategies, retailers can thrive even with a price-sensitive audience this holiday season. Read the ICSC survey here: https://lnkd.in/eDJHrcdX

For retailers facing financial challenges, Chapter 11 offers a valuable pathway to restructuring and future growth. More than just #realestaterestructuring, Chapter 11 allows retailers to take a comprehensive approach to reorganize debts, renegotiate contracts and secure more favorable lease terms, all while continuing operations. By taking a more strategic restructuring approach, retailers can address financial hurdles and secure new financing options under the court’s supervision. This process gives businesses the time and framework to reduce debt in a manageable way, creating room for more operational and financial stability. Unlike a rushed approach, making the most of Chapter 11 allows companies to address deeper operational issues and set the stage for long-term success. Taking advantage of these tools can position retailers to emerge from the process leaner and more competitive, with the flexibility to adapt to changing market dynamics. Chapter 11 isn’t just a last resort — it’s an opportunity to revitalize a brand. #RCSRealEstate is a group of proven #realestateconsultants that can help your brand successfully navigate a restructuring.

True Religion continues its mission of bringing signature style closer to fans nationwide with a rapid U.S. expansion. This November, the brand is opening three new stores in key cities where customer demand has been on the rise, including: - San Antonio, TX (Nov. 9) - Brooklyn, NY (Nov. 15) - Chicago, IL (Nov. 22) Now with 51 locations nationwide, #TrueReligion strengthens its #retail footprint, marking a big step forward for the iconic denim and lifestyle brand. The new store locations include North Star Mall in San Antonio, Kings Plaza in Brooklyn, and Orland Square in Orland Park, each ready to welcome shoppers with exclusive holiday styles. Join us in celebrating this exciting expansion and get a first look at True Religion’s latest collections at these new locations. Thanks to #RCSRealEstate, True Religion is growing faster than ever! Read more about the expansion here: https://lnkd.in/epqnNrtz

November is here, and as we approach the end of the year, the #retaillandscape remains challenging and full of opportunity. Here’s what we’re focusing on at #RCSRealEstate to help clients close out 2024 with resilience: 1. Market Adaptability – As consumer trends fluctuate, optimizing store formats and aligning real estate with sales performance are more critical than ever. A flexible approach can help retailers respond quickly to shifting demands. 2. Strategic Lease Negotiations – In a complex market, one-size-fits-all solutions fall short. Tailored lease agreements, that consider each landlord’s priorities, can provide stability and enhance long-term viability. 3. Growth-Ready Locations – Whether downsizing or exploring new markets, making data-driven choices about locations helps retailers position themselves for success as we head into 2025. At RCS, we're committed to guiding our clients through these dynamic times, ensuring real estate strategies support their broader business goals. Let us help with your 2025 planning and make the most of the new year together!

We’re thrilled to announce that Pinnacle US Holdings LLC, a subsidiary of PureGym, was the successful bidder at auction for Blink Fitness's corporate operations and a significant portion of its gyms in New York and New Jersey, for $121 million in cash. With backing from Leonard Green & Partners and KKR, PureGym is set to expand its U.S. footprint, bringing more affordable, premium fitness experiences to Northeast communities. As PureGym’s trusted #realestateconsultant, #RCSRealEstate is proud to play a critical role in this transition. Our team of #leasenegotiationexperts is strategically repositioning over 60 Blink Fitness locations, helping PureGym secure prime spots and optimize value for its continued growth in the U.S. fitness market.