Vertu

Since 2007, we have been working as Vertu’s in-house retail real estate consultant aiding the roll out of their format worldwide.

The role encompasses the following:

• Identification of the most suitable global locations for opening stores in the world’s leading markets
• Sourcing locations for concept stores across Europe, the Americas, Asia and Asia Pacific
• The identification of the key global luxury markets and resorts for Vertu
• Appointment and management of local real estate agents
• Working with both local agents and independently to identify site opportunities
• Negotiation of best lease terms
• Working with Vertu’s in-house marketing, store development, operations and legal teams throughout the acquisition process
• Preparation of detailed footfall analysis of every store location
• Travel to all target markets for site selection and identification purposes
• Working with Vertu franchisees where requested to evaluate sites and provide site assessment advice

This is a truly global instruction where HDH’s retail knowledge in all major international markets is integral to achieving Vertu’s goal of a brand presence in the world’s most visible and lucrative shopping destinations.

Polo Ralph Lauren

HDH are retained exclusively by Polo Ralph Lauren across Europe effectively acting as their in-house European Property Manager. Andrew Bathurst and David Harper’s considerable experience of the European marketplace, coupled with HDH’s reputation and track record, enabled us to secure this client. This instruction highlights the skills and services that we can offer across Europe. Our remit for Polo Ralph Lauren includes:

• Identification of target cities for flagship, core and resort locations across Europe
• Identification of appropriate opportunities for new factory outlet stores
• Sourcing suitable store opportunities in target cities, working with the best local agent in the relevant market, where appropriate
• Negotiation of best possible terms for store acquisitions and lease renewals
• Managing and facilitating store acquisition process with Polo Ralph Lauren design construction and operations teams, leasing agents and lawyers
• Providing country and site specific market reports for analysing future acquisition targets and current store rationalisation programs
• Collating all completed leases and creating a database providing a diary of all forthcoming events including lease expiries, rent reviews, break clauses and notice periods
• Managing lease renewals and disposals. If required, we also check rent and service charge invoices, and budget in advance of proposed rent increases
• A rapid response to any property problems that may arise across the portfolio

There are a number of ongoing transactions with this client across Europe. We have concluded deals for full price stores completed in Paris, London and St Moritz. We have also been very effective in the factory outlet market with expansions in Kildare, Mendrisio, Parndorf, Troyes, Bataviastad, La Vallée, La Roca, Barberino. We are also advising on buying back the former licensed store in Amsterdam.

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