One of my most frequently asked questions.

Having worked in the Retail Construction industry for more than 20 years, I often come across Project Managers and Real Estate Developers working for Retail companies looking to expand their portfolio of locations in New York City.

New York City is a completely different “animal” than other cities in America, especially if you are opening your first store. There are too many factors to take into consideration in order for the project to be successful. Is the project Union or not? Does the building fall under the Landmark PC? Is the location in SOHO and you need to deal with the Loft Board? Or….even better…are you looking to build a store inside the newly opened WTC Mall? Good luck…….

These are just few of the things that come across my mind when I think of what a Project Manager will face when opening a new location in NYC.

 

Few months ago I posted the article Is Your Brand Ready to Open a Retail Store in New York?

There’s no denying New York City’s place in the pantheon of great cities for retail. It is the largest retail city in the United States, and one of the most well known retail cities in the World. But while the New York market provides an unbelievable opportunity for retail, it has its own challenges.

 

Too many Retailers underestimate the time it takes to select the space, negotiate the lease, design the space, submit the plan for permit, wait for the permit to be issued, start construction and then open.

Since it is impossible to avoid the challenges that exist when opening a new retail location in New York, as a Project Manager you need to put yourself in the position to manage all of them.

Hiring, I prefer the term “partnering with”, Architects, General Contractors, Permit Expeditors that have an unchallengeable experience working in NYC will help you, without any doubt, succeed in every project.

 

I want to share with you a few of the company leaders in the Retail Construction Industry that completed projects in New York.

(companies are listed by number of completed projects in NYC. Click on the name to view the full profile)

Architects

Mario Ciuffarin Architect

Atmosphere Design Group LLC

Sawicki Tarella Architecture & Design

SPaCe Architects

Valerio Architects, Inc

General Contractors

Michilli Inc

Shawmut Design & Construction

Schimenti Construction Company

Corcon

Hirsch Construction Corp.

EXA Usa Corp.

 

I’d suggest to contact any of these companies, meet with them and get an idea about their experience, work ethic and most important get a feeling if they are the right partner for you.

You can access any time the full list of 629 companies just typing New York on 4URSPACE.

Good luck with your projects.