MECSC to explore the evolving role of leasing

Aimed at regional mall operators and retailers, the workshop will highlight all aspects of lease management and the importance of well planned and researched leasing initiatives.

The two day programme from October 24-25, 2007 at the Burjuman Rotana Suites in Dubai, will be led by Walter Kleinschmit, President of R2E Consultants Inc and former General Manager for Kingdom Centre in Riyadh, KSA.

"Proper lease management helps to maximise returns by creating an efficient and dynamic environment for retailers which in turn will ensure quality shopping experience for consumers. This involves developing a strong relationship with retailers and providing them a proper location, ensuring customer traffic and a reasonable duration in which retailers can achieve their business goals,"

said Walter Kleinschmit.

The workshop will cover the importance of leasing in the dynamic and fast growing retail scenario in the GCC which, according to Retail International, currently has approximately 6 million sq.m of retail space completed, around 4.5 million sq.m under development and an estimated total space of 16 million sq.m to be completed by 2015. The programme will also provide guidance in planning, preparation of lease contracts and guaranteeing branding and promotional opportunities for retailers.

Kim Redman, Regional Director of MECSC commented: "As retail business is growing at a phenomenal pace in the region, the importance of having trained professionals with strong knowledge of leasing cannot be ignored. They will ensure that there is a right mix of brands, increased footfall and a win-win relationship with retailers. The workshop is part of our ongoing programme to develop regional talent that will sustain the growth and development of the shopping malls industry. Participants will benefit from Kleinschmit's first hand experience of the regional market and international trends."

Walter Kleinschmit has over 23 years of retail and development experience in the region. Before moving to the Middle East, he worked in Canada specialising in retail. Kleinschmit's training sessions are regionally relevant and attendees will benefit greatly from his vast experience in the field. He is a founder of the Middle East Council of Shopping Centres and a member of the international faculty of the ICSC School of Professional Development.

All workshop participants will receive a complete revised edition of ICSC's 'Shopping Center Study Lease' guide which is a reference tool to understanding and writing a shopping center lease that reflects today's realities. This expanded edition features commentary on premises, rent, marketing, advertising and promotion, operating costs and much more.