News Archives - Ben Muller Realty Co., Inc.

Why ICSC Las Vegas 2025 Matters for Grand Rapids CRE Professionals

May 2, 2025/in News/by Alexis Platt

ICSC Las Vegas 2025

As we head into May, one of the most anticipated events in commercial real estate is just around the corner: ICSC Las Vegas 2025. Taking place May 18–20 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, this national gathering brings together thousands of brokers, developers, retailers, and real estate professionals—all looking to make deals and gain insight into the future of the industry.

So, what does this high-energy event mean for Grand Rapids?

A National Lens with Local Impact

ICSC Las Vegas sets the tone for trends across the country—trends that are increasingly shaping the West Michigan market. Whether it’s the growing appetite for mixed-use developments, innovations in retail space, or strategies for repositioning legacy properties, what’s discussed in Las Vegas often makes its way into site plans and leasing conversations back home.

Networking That Moves the Needle

For brokers, this conference isn’t just about learning—it’s about connecting. The show floor has become a hub for back-to-back meetings, spontaneous introductions, and strategic reconnections. It’s a rare chance to talk face-to-face with national retailers, major landlords, and peers from across the country who are all invested in what’s next.

Even if you’re focused on the Grand Rapids market, ICSC Las Vegas offers an opportunity to build relationships that can lead to deals, development partnerships, or new concepts entering our region.

Spotlight on Strategy

This year’s programming includes sessions on shifting consumer expectations, economic outlooks, and the role of technology in CRE—all especially timely as West Michigan navigates continued growth and tight inventory. For brokers looking to bring added value to their clients, these insights are more than just helpful—they’re essential.

Preparing for the Event

Whether it’s your first time attending or you’re a seasoned ICSC veteran, preparation is key. Set meetings in advance, research who’s attending, and come ready with clear goals. The days go by fast—but with the right strategy, they can be incredibly productive.

Here’s a link to their resources available.

See You in Vegas!

Ben Muller Realty Co. will be attending ICSC Las Vegas this year, and we’re looking forward to connecting with peers and partners from across the country. If you’re heading to the conference and want to talk Grand Rapids market trends, future deals, or available opportunities in our portfolio—let’s connect.

Reach out to schedule a time to meet during the conference. We’d love to share how West Michigan is growing—and how you can be part of it.

Spring into Opportunity: Why Now is the Perfect Time for Business Growth

April 4, 2025/in News/by Alexis Platt

Spring: The Best Time for Business Growth

Spring in Michigan brings renewal—not just in nature, but in business. As the weather warms and foot traffic increases, it’s an ideal time for businesses to set fresh goals, attract customers, and explore new opportunities.

A Fresh Start for Business

Spring cleaning isn’t just for homes. Many businesses use this time to reassess their space, refine budgets, and plan for growth. Hiring picks up, teams expand, and business owners consider whether their current location still fits their needs. A new space can revitalize employees, attract new customers, and position a business for success.

Growth is in the Air

Longer days and increased activity bring new energy to commercial areas. Spring is often when construction projects break ground, businesses scout new locations, and communities anticipate what’s next. If expansion is on your mind, now is the time to secure space before competition heats up.

More Visibility, More Opportunity

With people spending more time outside, businesses benefit from increased exposure. Storefronts attract more attention, “For Lease” signs stand out, and new locations gain traction as customers explore.

Stay Tuned: Exciting Openings Ahead

Spring also marks an exciting time for new business openings in our properties. One of the latest additions coming soon is Playa Bowls, set to open at Knapp’s Corner in late spring/early summer. Keep an eye out for more announcements as we welcome new businesses to our growing portfolio!

Now’s the Time to Make Your Move

If you’re considering expansion or relocation, spring is the perfect time to act. Whether you need a high-visibility storefront, a growing office space, or a fresh location, now is the time to secure the right spot before summer.

At Ben Muller Realty Co., we’re here to help you find the perfect space for your business. Contact us today to explore available properties.

Muller Family Moves Forward with Redevelopment of Long-Held Patterson & 36th Property

March 13, 2025/in News/by Alexis Platt

Kentwood, MI – March 2025 – The Muller family is embarking on developing the northwest corner of 36th Street and Patterson Avenue, a 30-acre property that has been in their family for three generations.

The property was the first Planned Unit Development (PUD) established in the City of Kentwood, which was formerly Paris Township. The site has remained largely undeveloped for decades. Now, after years of thoughtful planning and engagement with community stakeholders, Ben Muller Realty is moving forward with a mixed-use project to serve the needs of industrial users as well as airport customers.

The initial phase will focus on a 10-acre commercial component, featuring:

A hotel to accommodate business and leisure travelers.
A state-of-the-art gas station and convenience store.
Retail space designed to support industrial businesses and airport customers, with three approved drive-thrus.
A potential daycare facility to help address employees’ childcare needs in the surrounding industrial corridor.
A bank or credit union.

This development will bring much-needed amenities to the area, with the hotel and gas station serving as the closest options to Gerald R. Ford International Airport. The retail component will also offer convenient quick-service options such as coffee, sandwiches, and pizza for travelers and nearby employees. This development will bring a convenient alternative for those trying to avoid the congestion of 28th Street.

The project breaking ground is marking the first step in bringing this long-held development to life.

With progress underway on the commercial portion, the Mullers will next turn their attention to the 20 acres of industrial land, which can accommodate up to 200,000 square feet of space. Ownership remains flexible in structuring a deal and would be open to an industrial build-to-suit, ground lease, joint venture, or an outright sale.

“Our family has owned this land since the 1970s, so we’ve had ample time to get it right,” said Elliot Muller, the lead developer on the project. “Over the past three years, we’ve worked closely with stakeholders in the community to understand their needs, and we believe this plan reflects those conversations and incorporates that insight.”

For inquiries about commercial or industrial opportunities at Patterson & 36th, contact Elliot Muller.

Elliot Muller

Emuller@mullerreatly.com

616-456-7114

Valentine’s Day Done Right: Support Our Tenants!

February 11, 2025/in News/by Alexis Platt

Support Our Tenants: Valentine’s Day Edition

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by supporting businesses across Grand Rapids? Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, picking up a sweet treat, or looking for a fun experience, our properties have amazing tenants gearing up for Valentine’s Day. Although we may be biased, we’ve got some great recommendations for where to go in Grand Rapids.

Sweet Treats for Your Valentine

Rise Authentic Baking Co – Treat your Valentine to something sweet without the worry! Everything at Rise Bakery is vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, dye-free, and free from artificial flavors and sweeteners. Croissants, donuts, cinnamon rolls—anything you can imagine is all gluten-free, allergen-friendly, and delicious!

Koeze – Known for their rich, handcrafted peanut butter and gourmet chocolates, Koeze has been a Grand Rapids staple for generations. Whether you’re gifting a chocolate lover or a peanut butter fan, their premium treats add a touch of indulgence to any Valentine’s celebration.

Sweet Details – If you’re looking for custom desserts to impress, Sweet Details has you covered. From beautifully designed cakes to intricate cookies and cupcakes, they add an extra touch of love to every order.

Date Night Done Right

The Sovengard – Treat your special someone to an unforgettable dining experience at Sovengard. Their seasonally inspired dishes and cozy ambiance make for the perfect romantic evening. Whether you’re planning a full dinner or just stopping in for a drink, it’s a great spot to celebrate the occasion.

The Melting Pot – A Valentine’s Day favorite, The Melting Pot offers an intimate and interactive fondue dining experience. From cheese fondue starters to chocolate desserts, it’s a fun and delicious way to spend the evening together.

Fun Valentine’s Gifts

Jade Tea – Got a boba-loving Valentine? Swing by Jade Tea for a fun, flavorful drink! With tons of teas, toppings, and flavors to mix and match, it’s a sweet (and sippable) way to celebrate.

Rocket Fizz – For a nostalgic gift, stop by Rocket Fizz for a selection of quirky candies, retro sodas, and fun novelty gifts. It’s a great spot for finding something sweet and unexpected.

The Mud Room – Want to add a creative touch to your Valentine’s celebration? Head to The Mud Room and paint your own pottery piece together! It’s a fun and interactive way to get creative while spending quality time together.

This Valentine’s Day, show your love not just to your special someone but also to the businesses that help make Grand Rapids thrive. At Ben Muller Realty, we’re always excited to celebrate the businesses in our community and cheer them on!

Happy Valentine’s Day! <3

What’s Next In Main St. Business Center

January 22, 2025/in News/by Alexis Platt

Prime Retail Suite Available!

Main St. Business Center (more commonly known as ‘Knapp’s Corner’)—where Grand Rapids comes alive, day or night. Whether grabbing a Starbucks to fuel up, enjoying a show at the IMAX, indulging in froyo from The Pump House, or grabbing dinner at HopCat, something is always happening here.

But now, there’s a new opportunity in the area, with a 2,028 square foot of retail space on the market—and the community is curious to see which business will take over next.

A Vibrant Business District, Ready for More

Main St. Business Center is ready to welcome a new business into this high-traffic space. Knapp’s Corner continues to grow, with new neighbors often entering the market, including Barnes & Noble, Yoga Six, Goldfish Swim School, Acapulco Mexican Grill, VCA Animal Hospital, Bank of America, and Qahwah House.

Strategically located in a regional retail node, Knapp’s Corner draws customers from all over the city—Rockford to the North, East Grand Rapids to the South, Cascade and Ada to the East, and suburban Grand Rapids to the West. Its convenient location and reputation make it a central gathering place for shopping, dining, and services.

Whether you’re a national chain looking to establish your first Grand Rapids location or a local business ready to grow, this retail space offers the ideal mix of visibility, convenience, and community vibe to help your business thrive.

What We Gathered from Employees

After surveying employees in the Main St. Business Center, here is what we gathered:

One employee from Rocket Fizz, expressed interest in experiential businesses, such as craft studios or activity-based spaces that provide something unique. Specifically, she thought it would be ideal for a group of moms to host different DIY crafts sessions throughout all the seasons.

Others mentioned, a desire for something that isn’t already in this strip, like Indian or Chinese food.

What Could Be Next?

We’re imagining the possibilities… could it be:

A smoothie bowl café

A clothing boutique

A bagel shop or breakfast joint

Main St. Business Center has a solid foundation for success, with many tenants staying for 10-20 years and counting. Its consistent foot traffic and family-friendly atmosphere make Knapp’s Corner a reliable and vibrant attraction for businesses.

Let’s Make It Happen

Are you ready to grow your business? This 2,028 square foot retail space at Main St. Business Center could be the perfect fit. Located in a thriving retail hub, it offers the ideal environment to support long-term success.

Call us today to schedule a tour and discuss how this space can meet your business goals. We’re excited to welcome the next great addition to Main St. Business Center!

End-of-Year Q&A with Elliot Muller

December 20, 2024/in News/by Alexis Platt

As we approach the end of 2024, we sat down with Elliot Muller to reflect on the past year in commercial real estate and gain insights into the future. In this Q&A session, Elliot covers everything from local market trends to industry challenges and shares advice for aspiring commercial real estate professionals. Let’s dive in!

How have you seen the Grand Rapids area grow or evolve in commercial development?

“The suburbs have seen quite a bit of new attention versus downtown CBD,” Elliot explains. “Near neighborhoods to downtown, like Creston Heights, Fulton Heights, and the West Side, have really started to establish unique identities. A few years back, the unique neighborhoods were limited to a few (Cherry Street and Wealthy Street), but through a mix of redevelopment and new construction these neighborhoods have seen a resurgence as of late.”

What types of businesses will drive the most demand in the coming year?

“Fitness has been a busy sector,” Elliot explains. “In the past, you’d go to a single club for everything. Now, there’s a studio for every niche—yoga, stretching, Pilates, barre, and more. Health has become a bigger priority for Americans.”

Another notable trend is the coffee market. “In Grand Rapids alone,” Elliot notes, “four or five new coffee chains are entering the market, all competing for the same spaces.”

Elliot also highlights the rise of international cuisine: “Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are making waves with diverse offerings like Indian, Mediterranean, and Greek food.”

Overall, Grand Rapids continues to see a flow in distinctive retail businesses, keeping the business area dynamic and full of fresh options.

From fitness studios to coffee chains and globally inspired QSRs, these categories are driving demand both locally and nationally. Elliot emphasizes that businesses catering to people’s growing desire for health, convenience, and unique food experiences are gaining traction, opening doors for innovative concepts in the retail industry.

How has technology changed the leasing and buying process?

“Technology has been a part of our industry for some time now,” Elliot shares. “We were the first real estate company in Grand Rapids to have a fax machine and a computer. Now, we’re in the world of AI, where national retailers can look at a site in Grand Rapids from their desktop in Tallahassee, Florida. By entering an address, their proprietary algorithm can churn out demographics, comparables, and even projected sales.”

Regardless of these advances, Elliot clarifies that “Local retailers still rely on experts to say, ‘This is a good fit for you, and here’s why.’” He also notes how “Technology has streamlined processes and are now the standard for transactions, whereas everything used to require copious amounts of paperwork.”

Experiential retail trends and standout tenants

“Experiential retail has taken off,” Elliot notes. “With the younger generation, it’s all about entertainment-driven spaces. For example, we’ve seen concepts like The Main Event at Woodland Mall and heard discussions about Topgolf and indoor driving arenas at Patterson Farms. Indoor putt putt is also popping up. These kinds of venues create excitement and generate interest in the market.”

When asked about his favorite tenant or deal in 2024, Elliot adds with a laugh, “Personally, my favorite tenant is one that pays rent. But I’ll say there are some exciting tenants entering the market, and a few big announcements are coming in 2025.” At the end of the day, he emphasizes that it’s about bringing in the right tenants who will serve the Grand Rapids market well.

What advice would you give to aspiring commercial real estate professionals?

“You need thick skin to handle rejection,” Elliot advises. “In our business you hear a lot of ‘no’s,’ and you can’t take it personally.” He also noted that hard work pays off: “The more you work, the more successful you’ll be.”

For landlords, Elliot offers a word of caution: “Don’t follow trends too closely. Trends are like high-risk stocks—hot until they’re not. Having a long term is key to success.”

Closing Thoughts

As we look ahead to 2025, Elliot’s reflections provide perspectives into the commercial real estate landscape in Grand Rapids and beyond. From suburban growth to the rise of experiential retail and wellness, there’s no shortage of opportunity—but it’s clear that adaptability and a steady approach remain critical to success. With 2025 on the horizon, we’re excited to continue exploring new possibilities, strengthening partnerships, and contributing to the growth of our community. Here’s to an exciting year ahead, full of potential and promise!