Boise, Idaho, the “City of Trees,” is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its thriving retail scene, and at the heart of the scene is the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC®). They play a pivotal role in shaping the retail landscape. For sixty-seven years, ICSC® has been instrumental in fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and driving innovation within the retail sector. Their presence has had a profound impact, contributing to economic growth and development.
And it’s not just in Boise, Idaho, ICSC® is an international company. Just this past May 22-24th, ICSC® held their annual conference in Las Vegas, Nevada to influence the retail sector through networking. These events provide a platform for industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to come together, exchange ideas, and form partnerships. These annual events serve as catalysts for collaboration, innovation, and business growth, empowering local retailers to stay ahead of market trends and consumer preferences. Hawkins had a booth (see photo insert) and held meetings all day with existing and prospective tenants. We offer a wide range of retail space from Alaska to South Carolina encompassing 3.3 million square feet of space to be exact. Isn’t that exciting?
ICSC® research initiatives provide valuable insights into consumer behavior, market trends, and emerging technologies, enabling retailers to make informed decisions and adapt to changing market dynamics. Through its research reports and industry analyses, ICSC® empowers retailers to anticipate market shifts and capitalize on new opportunities.
ICSC® also offers educational programs and resources that play vital roles in supplying retailers with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an expanding marketplace. Further, ICSC® offers a wealth of opportunities for professionals to expand their expertise and stay competitive in the industry, whether it is a workshop on marketing strategies or seminars on sustainable retail practices.
At Hawkins, our very own Beau Manwaring, Director of Asset Management is the Idaho Government Affairs Chair for ICSC®. He advocates for policies that support the interests of retailers and promotes economic development in Boise. By engaging with policymakers and advocating for favorable legislative and regulatory environments, ICSC® helps create a business-friendly climate that encourages investment and entrepreneurship in the retail sector. I asked Beau what it meant to him to be a part of this organization, and his response was “Commercial real estate is integral to the fabric of our communities. Participating in ICSC® gives Hawkins the opportunity to not only improve our CRE business but to improve our communities with projects that improve our daily lives. The group collectively champions the kind of developments that make our neighborhoods more connected and vibrant, turning our commercial areas into hubs of activity that we all enjoy.”
As Boise continues to evolve as a retail hub, the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC®) will undoubtedly remain a driving force behind its success. They play a significant role in helping to shape the retail landscape across the world. I leave you with this quote by Charles Darwin, “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”
