The retail industry represents one of the hardest hit sectors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Retailers across the board have been navigating challenging times as more consumers shop online and order food deliveries. JLL’s retail brokerage team led by Zach Winkler navigated these challenges, closing 2020 with several retail deals completed and winning new retail assignments in some of South Florida’s thriving neighborhoods.

Winkler leads the efforts of JLL’s South Florida retail brokerage division. Over the past year, he completed transactions totaling a combined 271,133 square feet of retail space. His role includes working with JLL’s brokers throughout South Florida in the strategic development and execution of business development, leasing plans and tenant roll-outs.

In May 2020, as the pandemic was reaching a peak point, JLL was able to secure eight retail leases at the new mixed-use development Social in Plantation in southwest Broward. The 201,596-square-foot property, adjacent to WestField Broward Mall, is welcoming a mix of tenants including dining, entertainment, and co-working concepts.

Closing out the year on a strong note, JLL negotiated a 36,000-square-foot lease to bring Powerhouse Gym to MiamiCentral, marking the international fitness chain’s entrance into the Miami market. The team was also engaged to help national fast-food restaurant chain Raising Canes in its South Florida expansion. To date, the chain has signed three leases and JLL is actively negotiating a few more deals.