Transforming Communities Through Educational Infrastructure

As retail sellers strive to sweeten deals to stimulate transaction activity, preschool and school tenants will benefit from more favorable terms.

LAS VEGAS—There is a notable shift towards value-added projects in retail today, driven by the need to navigate the current financial terrain. So says Pablo Barreiro, chairman of Fortec, who has focused on enhancing communities and revitalizing neighborhoods. He tells GlobeSt.com that Fortec has embarked on a mission to transform vacant properties into vibrant educational hubs tailored to the needs of communities.

The focus on built-to-suit educational projects is not just a strategic move; it’s a response to an underserved sector yearning for quality educational infrastructure. In today’s market, where fluctuations abound, such value-added initiatives stand resilient, offering both social impact and financial viability, he says.

Barreiro predicts an intriguing trajectory for the property sector in the coming year, especially with interest rates poised to maintain their current stance. In this scenario, he says, investors are likely to gravitate towards projects offering higher returns, seeking to counterbalance the challenges posed by stagnant interest rates.

For Fortec, this presents a unique opportunity, he tells GlobeSt.com. As sellers strive to sweeten deals to stimulate transaction activity, preschool and school tenants under Fortec’s umbrella could stand to benefit from more favorable terms. In addition, he says, with construction costs on a downward trend, the prospects for expansion and growth for these tenants appear increasingly accessible.

Check out related retail stories below that you might have missed and stay tuned for more trend coverage from other retail experts we spoke with as the ICSC approaches.

Retail Becomes Top Performing Asset Class

Luxury Retail Thrives: Odyssey Retail Advisors Previews Market Insights

Industry Insiders Talk ICSC, Shifting Positions in C-Suites

How Retail Owners Can Use Data to Big Effect

Suburban Neighborhood Retail Takes Center Stage

Influencers in Retail Real Estate 2024

How E-Commerce Meshes With Brick and Mortar Retail

Online Grocery Sales to Grow 3X Faster Than In-Store

Grocery Sector Overcoming Challenges

Retailers Struggle With Mounting Losses Due to Theft

Convenience Stores Become Destination Locations

Blackstone Buying Tropical Smoothie Cafe for $2B