Mary Ridberg

Director of Leasing
Sperry Van Ness

Years with company: 6
Years as ICSC member: 9

How have consumer attitudes affected the retail market?
As consumer confidence returns, the retail market demand increases, urgency for locations increase, leasing volumes increase and vacancy decreases. The tipping point in this equation leads to the need for future development, which occurs with pre-leasing to meet the demands of lenders funding development…The consumer attitude is positive for daily needs and soft goods, technology retailers, and specialty items due to the consumers’ desire to see, feel, touch and experience the product prior to purchase.

What was your most significant deal in 2013?
My largest deal in 2013 was a combination of two spaces for Origami Owl at 10 Chandler. We secured 81,238 SF in its production facility and 66,248 SF for corporate offices. This was not simply a real estate “deal” but a mission critical project for my friend.