MIAMI—Prepare for the retail rush. Applebee's, Crunch Fitness, and the cinema eatery Flix Brewhouse are all on the hunt for retail space in South Florida.

CREC is on tap to help these brands find and negotiate leases for new locations in South and Southwest Florida. CREC vice president Chris Barney and co-director of retail leasing Sabrina Meerbott are jointly representing Crunch. Barney is managing the tenant representation assignments for Applebee's and Flix Brewhouse.

“Crunch Fitness, Applebee's and Flix Brewhouse are among the strongest brands in their respective sectors,” says Barney. “Their anticipated expansion in Florida is consistent with the growth we're seeing among retailers across the state. The gradually improving economy is prompting national and regional brands to expand into urban and suburban neighborhoods.”