The locally based retail real estate acquisition and operating company, which was launched just under a year ago, recently changed its name from Pivotal Properties. The firm says it is looking to acquire $200 million of "convenience-oriented" retail real estate by 2006. The company purchased three shopping centers totaling $14 million in the past year: Centre Street Village in Danvers; Flint Village Plaza in Fall River; and RK Plaza in Dracut.

"Linear Retail Properties business model calls for the acquisition of a large number of convenience-oriented retail properties over the next several years. Linear has a very clearly defined business model and plan for their use of debt," says Becker.

Targeted acquisitions--in eastern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire--include smaller "unanchored" retail properties ranging from fully-stabilized shopping centers and freestanding stores to retail sites in need of complete redevelopment. Portfolio purchases are also being actively pursued by the company.