On March 22, REjournals hosted its 5th Annual Milwaukee Commercial Real Estate Summit at the Wisconsin Club with 120 professionals in attendance.
Three panels gathered to share insight on different sectors of the market, and the main takeaway? Milwaukee is not to be overlooked.
Panelists: Adam Connor, Colliers; Alba Colavitti, AIA, CRG; Anne Wal, von Briesen & Roper; Eteri Zaslavsky, Next Realty; Gerard Pecor, CoStar Group; Janet Protas, Conor Commercial Real Estate; Lyle Landowski; Colliers; Matt Wozniczka, Bremer Bank; Mike Fitzgerald, Mid-America Real Estate; Rebecca Gries, Milwaukee 7; Sean Cullen, JP Cullen; Wilson Molitor, Greystone; Chris Wilz, Walker Dunlop; Craig Pryde, KTGY; Gretchen Richards, CBRE; Kevin Newell, Royal Capital; Leticia Schwengel, Landmark Credit Union; Ralph DePasquale, Berkadia; and Tracy Johnson, CARW.
Multifamily
One of the main takeaways from the event was the strength of the multifamily sector in Milwaukee, which currently has the fifth lowest vacancy rate in the U.S., indicating a robust demand for rentals, especially those in the urban core.
Industrial
Industrial was described as “resilient” and “bullish”, highlighting the potential for continued growth and profitability.
Retail
Despite concerns over the future of brick-and-mortar retail, according to the panel, retail is not dead, but evolving. The trend of “flight to quality” was emphasized, with retailers focusing on providing high-quality “experiential” shopping that cannot be replicated online.
The food and beverage subsector was also noted as being particularly strong.
Office
As one might assume, the office sector was described as “tough” as speakers reflected on the challenges posed by remote work and evolving office needs. But experts noted that there are still opportunities for growth in this area, particularly in well-located and well-designed office spaces.
REjournals would like to extend special appreciation to all who attended the event. Missed this one? Stay up to date by visiting our EVENTS PAGE.