ICSC Goes Holiday. Good News from Retail Gurus.

What an evening I just shared with friends and colleagues in the retail and shopping center industry on Oahu, Thursday, November 29th. It was the annual International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) holiday gathering. This year the event was hosted by Ed Kenney of Downtown, the restaurant in the Hawaii State Art Museum. The best and the brightest attended. Bringing to market the new and the most fabulous retail ideas from the movers and shakers in Hawaii today. How? Through cocktails and pupu, of course.

Doug Smoyer, the czar, was there. Also Fred Noa, Jessica Fodor, Al Cottrall, Todd Hedrick, Bill Brizee, Ann Kutaka, Dave Erdman, Rod Tam—to name just a few. Barbara Campbell—our ICSC State Director did an amazing job. Sharon James, Matt Derby, Diane Bruce of GGP—what a gift to be with them and to have them provide so much fun for the event. There were just too many good folks to call each out, individually, so if I’ve not mentioned you, please forgive me. The stars were out. And I was blinded by the light.

The good news is the new developments. From what I learned tonight from the heavy hitters, our new developments are being so carefully designed to be eco friendly, transit friendly, family friendly, on all islands. As in, if you live in Kapolei, you should be able to work in Kapolei and not drive three or more hours each day. The Second City—remember that concept? Well, it’s happening finally.

The shopping center development and marketing folks have their work cut out for them on all islands, but they have a good game plan. I feel confident they’ll make it happen.

Happy Holidays. Film at 11.