Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue’s $4B Makeover: NYC’s Bold Bet On Luxury Retail’s Future

By Columbus International,22 October 2024

In a move that could reshape Manhattan’s premier retail corridor and dramatically impact billions in real estate values, New York City has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform Fifth Avenue for the first time in two centuries. The historic redesign signals a strategic pivot in how America’s largest city approaches its high-value commercial districts in a post-pandemic landscape.

The Billion-Dollar Boulevard

The numbers tell a compelling story: Fifth Avenue’s transformation targets a stretch responsible for $111.5 billion in annual economic output and 313,000 jobs. Recent market activity underscores the corridor’s enduring appeal:

Over $3.9 billion in commercial real estate transactions in recent months
Third-quarter asking rents surged 9% to $2,257 per square foot
Record-low retail vacancy rates, according to JLL research
An estimated 23,000 pedestrians per hour during peak seasons—surpassing Madison Square Garden’s capacity

“This isn’t just about streetscape improvements—it’s about protecting and enhancing one of the world’s most valuable retail and real estate corridors,” says Madelyn Wils, interim president of the Fifth Avenue Association and co-chair of the Future of Fifth Steering Committee.

The Master Plan

The transformation, led by engineering firms Arcadis and Sam Schwartz alongside landscape architect Field Operations, includes:

46% expansion of pedestrian space
Reduction from five to three traffic lanes
Enhanced street lighting and urban forestry
Shortened crosswalks for improved pedestrian flow

ROI: The Real Estate Perspective

The project’s self-funding projection—expected to pay for itself within five years through increased property and sales tax revenue—has caught the attention of real estate investors. Recent market validation includes:

Uniqlo’s strategic acquisition of its Fifth Avenue flagship
Luxury powerhouses Prada and Kering’s property investments
Continued strong leasing activity despite market headwinds

Proof of Concept

The city’s 2022 holiday season pedestrianization pilot provided compelling data:

$3 million in additional merchant revenue
6.6% increase in spending compared to non-pedestrianized blocks
Successful test case for the larger transformation

Beyond Fifth Avenue

This initiative represents a broader strategy to reinvigorate Manhattan’s commercial corridors. Two blocks east, Park Avenue is undergoing its own transformation, suggesting a coordinated approach to upgrading New York’s prime business districts.

“We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how cities approach their high-value commercial corridors,” says [Leading Real Estate Expert], managing director at [Major Commercial Real Estate Firm]. “The Fifth Avenue redesign could serve as a blueprint for other global cities looking to future-proof their premium retail districts.”

Looking Ahead

With preliminary planning work scheduled for completion by summer 2025, the real estate community is watching closely. The project’s success could set new standards for how cities balance pedestrian-friendly spaces with premium retail environments.

For real estate investors, developers, and retailers, the message is clear: New York City is betting big on the future of physical retail and pedestrian-friendly spaces. As Fifth Avenue prepares for its most significant transformation in 200 years, the project stands as a testament to the enduring value of prime urban retail corridors in the modern city landscape.

Source: CoStar News

Uniqlo Seizes Control of Its Fifth Avenue Flagship in New York

By Columbus International,8 August 2024

Japanese apparel titan Uniqlo is doubling down on its New York City presence, announcing a deal to take full ownership of its flagship store on Fifth Avenue. The move underscores a broader trend among major retail brands seeking to control their own real estate in the world’s premier shopping district.

Uniqlo is executing a two-part transaction to acquire the property. First, the company is buying out the stake held by a retail joint venture between Vornado Realty Trust and an unnamed partner. Vornado, which owns a 52% interest in the venture, will net $340 million from the sale of its portion.

Uniqlo is then purchasing the remainder of the property from Brookfield Properties, which owns the larger 39-story office building at 660 Fifth Avenue that houses the Uniqlo store. Terms of the Brookfield deal were not disclosed.

The transactions, expected to close by Q1 2025, underscore Uniqlo’s confidence in the long-term prospects of its New York flagship. The 90,732-square-foot store, located between 52nd and 53rd Streets, has been a crucial driver of the brand’s U.S. expansion since opening in 2011.

Uniqlo’s move follows a string of high-profile retail real estate plays on Fifth Avenue. Luxury giants Prada and Kering have also recently purchased properties along the iconic shopping corridor, seeking greater control over their flagship store experiences.

For Vornado, the sale allows the real estate investment trust to pay down $390 million in preferred equity on the 666 Fifth Avenue property. The REIT will retain ownership of several other retail assets along Fifth Avenue through its joint venture.

The transactions come as New York’s retail market shows signs of a post-pandemic rebound, bolstered by a resurgence in tourism and office occupancy. Vornado reported a rise in its New York retail occupancy rate to 77% in the second quarter, up from 75% a year earlier.

Uniqlo’s strategic real estate play underscores the brand’s long-term confidence in the Big Apple. By owning its marquee Fifth Avenue location outright, the company positions itself for continued growth in the world’s premier shopping destination.

Source: CoStar News
Photo via Unsplash

Manhattan’s Retail Renaissance: Storefronts Surge Despite Economic Headwinds

By Columbus International,26 July 2024

In a striking display of resilience, Manhattan’s retail sector is experiencing a robust revival, according to a recent report from the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY). The first half of 2024 has seen a surge in storefront activity, particularly in the small to mid-sized market, with the food and beverage industry leading the charge.

This resurgence comes as welcome news to a city still grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic. Despite rents hovering 20% to 30% below pre-COVID levels, demand for retail spaces remains strong, driven by a potent combination of rebounding tourism and the gradual return of office workers.

Keith DeCoster, REBNY’s director of market data and policy, notes, “Surging tourism invigorated Manhattan retail in 2022 and 2023.” This trend shows no signs of slowing, with New York City cementing its position as a top destination for sports tourism, bolstered by events like the 2024 Cricket World Cup.

The retail landscape is evolving, with savvy businesses adapting to new market realities. As prime locations in SoHo and Madison Avenue become scarce, retailers are exploring opportunities in less traditional corridors. The Penn District and Avenue of the Americas are benefiting from increased office activity, while residential neighborhoods like the Upper East and West Sides are seeing an influx of diverse businesses, from apparel stores to comedy clubs.

However, the recovery is not uniform across the borough. Times Square, once the beating heart of New York’s tourist economy, continues to struggle. DeCoster cautions, “Tourism and return to office remain below pre-Covid peaks, and lagging neighborhoods and pockets of vacancy underscore the reality that retail businesses still face significant obstacles.”

The city is not standing idle in the face of these challenges. Initiatives like the City of Yes: Economic Opportunity plan aim to streamline zoning and ordinances, potentially accelerating the filling of vacant storefronts and revitalizing streetscapes.

As Manhattan’s retail sector navigates this complex landscape, one thing is clear: the borough’s legendary resilience and adaptability are once again on full display. With continued innovation and support, New York’s storefronts are poised to write the next chapter in the city’s enduring retail story.

Aman New York Penthouse Acquired by Developer Vladislav Doronin for $135 Million (Source: WSJ)

By Columbus International,17 July 2024

In an unexpected turn of events, Russian-born billionaire Vladislav Doronin has purchased the crown jewel of his own development, the penthouse at Aman New York, for $135 million. This revelation comes five years after Doronin initially claimed an Asian buyer would acquire the property for $180 million.

The luxurious penthouse, occupying the top five floors of the historic Crown Building, boasts approximately 13,236 square feet of interior space and an additional 4,462 square feet of outdoor areas. Featuring seven bedrooms, the unit was sold in unfinished condition, allowing for customization by its new owner.

Doronin’s OKO Group spearheaded the conversion of the 1920s Crown Building, transforming its upper floors into 22 exclusive condominium units. The project, which began sales in 2018 and completed in 2022, has now sold out entirely. Notable transactions include a 24th-floor residence closing for $61.58 million in February and a 20th-floor unit selling for $75.8 million in 2022.

At 61, Doronin already possesses an impressive real estate portfolio, including homes in Miami Beach, London, Ibiza, and a Zaha Hadid-designed residence near Moscow. In 2019, he expressed interest in acquiring a unit at Aman New York, citing a desire for amenities like a fireplace and terrace that his Time Warner Center apartment lacked.

While it’s not uncommon for developers to invest in their own projects, Doronin’s acquisition stands out for its scale and price tag. Sources familiar with the deal indicate that an earlier agreement with an Asian buyer for a fully built-out unit fell through, explaining the difference between the initial $180 million figure and the final $135 million sale price for the raw space.

Doronin acknowledged in 2019 that he was entering a saturated market for ultra-luxury condos, particularly along Manhattan’s Billionaires’ Row. However, he remained confident in the project’s unique appeal, stating his hope that it would “fly above the clouds” in New York’s competitive real estate landscape.

The developer’s bold move reflects his belief in the project’s value, echoing his 2019 statement: “If you don’t take a risk, you don’t drink champagne.”

As of now, neither Doronin nor Aman representatives have responded to requests for comment on this significant transaction.

Source: WSJ

Photo via Aman New York

Fifth Avenue Reclaims Its Crown As The Ultimate Billionaire Playground

By Columbus International,11 June 2024

It was immortalized by Audrey Hepburn gazing wistfully into Tiffany’s windows in the 1961 classic Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Now, Fifth Avenue between the Plaza Hotel and Central Park has firmly re-established itself as the global ultra-wealthy’s real estate playground of choice, with a new crop of outrageously luxurious residential developments commanding some of the highest prices in America.

Leading the charge is Aman New York, which occupies the Crown Building, formerly home to the Museum of Modern Art. When sales launched in January 2020, it marked “the first new development in New York in that top luxury category,” according to developer Michael Shvo, who co-developed the property. One of its penthouses traded for a staggering $49 million this past winter. Not to be outdone, the newly completed Mandarin Oriental Residences boasts fully-furnished, turnkey condos and an embarrassment of over-the-top amenities like a private rooftop restaurant, pool, and fitness facilities. It set a new record for Manhattan’s priciest studio at $3.88 million. Next up is 520 Fifth Avenue, an 88-story tower with 100 condos that launched sales last month starting at $1.7 million for a one-bedroom. Its retail tenants will include elite private club Moss among other ultra-luxury brands.

“This kind of product doesn’t come along very often,” says Josh Rabina of developer Rabina, which painstakingly assembled the parcels over 10 years. “Getting half a million square feet together on this block is quite a feat.” The buying frenzy is driven by a new breed of wealthy, largely from out-of-town and overseas, who view these ultra-pricey pieds-à-terre as trophies more than full-time residences, according to Shvo. “These residents have homes in St. Moritz, Madrid, Miami, all over…these are ‘want’ homes, not ‘need’ homes.” The allure, of course, is the unmatched confluence of retail opulence (Tiffany’s recently unveiled renovation is the crown jewel), cultural institutions mere steps away, and the perfect vantage just off Central Park. As luxury architect Peter Marino puts it after transforming office properties like 711 Fifth Ave: “Fifth has the beauty of New York street life. You definitely don’t have the energy anywhere else in the city.” Fifth Avenue is reclaiming its golden age as the address for the new titans to see and be seen. Forget Park Avenue, this iconic stretch is once again the billionaire’s address of choice.

Photo: Aman New York
Source: New York Post

Kim Kardashian’s Skims Scores Prime Fifth Avenue Retail Space at Bargain Rates (The Real Deal)

By Columbus International,25 March 2024

In a strategic move that underscores shifting dynamics in New York City’s retail real estate landscape, Kim Kardashian‘s apparel empire, Skims Body, has secured a coveted lease for a sprawling 20,000-square-foot space on Fifth Avenue. This development comes at a fraction of the cost compared to its predecessor, signaling a savvy business maneuver amidst a changing market. According to reports from The Real Deal and Crain’s, Skims Body inked a deal with Oxford Properties and Crown Acquisitions for at least 75 percent below the previous tenant’s lease rates. The stark difference in pricing was highlighted in a recent report by Fitch Ratings, which also noted adjustments in the mortgage structure backing the Skims space and other properties in the vicinity. While specific lease details remain undisclosed, industry experts speculate that Skims Body’s rental rates could be well below the $770 per square foot paid by Versace, the former occupant, as reported by KBRA in 2022.

This suggests that Skims Body is likely paying under $200 per square foot—a substantial reduction reflective of evolving market dynamics. Kim Kardashian’s multifaceted entrepreneurial prowess likely played a pivotal role in securing such advantageous terms, especially as neighboring retailers recalibrate their strategies and vacate Fifth Avenue addresses. This vacancy trend has empowered companies like Skims Body to negotiate from a position of strength, capitalizing on prime retail spaces in iconic locales. Oxford Properties reports full occupancy for Olympic Tower’s retail segment, constituting 28 percent of the property but contributing over 60 percent of total rental revenue. Negotiations are also underway for office space within the same complex, showcasing sustained investor interest despite recent market adjustments. Institutional investors, who have held the mortgage since 2017, recently witnessed Fitch downgrading seven classes associated with the $760 million loan, due for maturity in 2027. The transition in tenant occupancy has coincided with a 13 percent dip in cash flow, now at $56 million annually, since the mortgage’s initial sale. Skims Body is gearing up for a grand opening slated for February, enhancing its brand presence with a high-profile physical retail outlet.

The company’s meteoric rise is mirrored in its valuation, which surged to $4 billion last year—a staggering $800 million leap from 2022 figures. Versace’s gradual exit from the space since 2018, initially signaled by its subleasing efforts, underscores the dynamic shifts reshaping New York’s retail real estate narrative. As Kim Kardashian’s entrepreneurial ventures continue to make waves across industries, Skims Body’s strategic real estate play exemplifies a nuanced understanding of market opportunities amid evolving consumer preferences and economic landscapes. This move not only solidifies the brand’s physical footprint but also underscores the enduring allure of iconic retail addresses amidst transformative market forces.

Photo credit: Skims

Luxury Brands Spark Renaissance on New York’s Fifth Avenue

By Columbus International,7 February 2024

In the summer of 2020, a headline boldly proclaimed, “New York City is dead forever,” echoing the grim reality of a pandemic-stricken world. However, Jerry Seinfeld’s dismissive response of “Oh, shut up,” has proven prescient more than three years later. Nowhere is this more evident than in a pivotal two-block stretch of Fifth Avenue in New York City. This iconic Manhattan shopping corridor has become a battleground for the world’s leading luxury brands, each vying for prime real estate. Recent months have seen a flurry of activity, with entities affiliated with Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton parent companies shelling out nearly $2 billion combined to secure coveted spots from 58th to 56th street. Additionally, Louis Vuitton’s parent company is eyeing 745 Fifth Avenue, further emphasizing the area’s allure, nestled near the Plaza Hotel and Central Park. While commercial property markets elsewhere struggle, these blockbuster deals shine as beacons of hope. Despite challenges like soaring borrowing costs and economic uncertainty, luxury brands are betting big on New York City’s enduring appeal. Their resurgence signals a rapid recovery, particularly in Manhattan’s upscale retail sector, with billionaire-backed conglomerates seizing the moment to solidify their presence both locally and globally. Michael Marks of Cushman & Wakefield notes the significance of these tenants’ long-term commitment to iconic New York locales, emphasizing their strategic move to control their destiny amidst market fluctuations.

Madelyn Wils, chief adviser for the Fifth Avenue Association, underscores the pivotal role of these investments in revitalizing tourism and cementing New York’s status as a premier luxury destination. Behind these landmark transactions stand titans of industry such as Bernard Arnault, Miuccia Prada Bianchi, and François Pinault, whose vast fortunes empower them to leave an indelible mark on Fifth Avenue. The rapid pace of these acquisitions, completed within weeks, underscores the urgency and confidence driving these deals. While challenges persist, including ongoing disputes and financial complexities, these transactions herald a new chapter for high-street retail in New York City. Marc Holliday of SL Green Realty Corp. heralds this resurgence as “very, very exciting for the city,” signaling a promising future for Fifth Avenue and beyond. With traditional real estate investors sidelined by market volatility, luxury conglomerates wield significant influence, leveraging their deep pockets and global vision to reshape urban landscapes. For brands like LVMH and Kering, owning prime real estate is integral to their global strategy, mirroring their successful endeavors in other cosmopolitan hubs like Paris and Tokyo. Indeed, as LVMH’s Chief Financial Officer Jean-Jacques Guiony affirms, being a landlord affords these luxury giants a unique opportunity to reimagine and elevate the retail experience, a sentiment echoed by their ambitious projects around the world. As they continue to invest in iconic addresses like Fifth Avenue, luxury brands are not just shaping skylines but also transforming the very essence of luxury retailing.

Source: Bloomberg

Battle Royale on Fifth Avenue: LVMH Eyes Prime Real Estate Amidst Luxury Retail Frenzy

By Columbus International,30 January 2024

In the intense competition for coveted space on the world’s most expensive retail boulevard, international luxury fashion giants are set to clash. LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the powerhouse behind iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Tiffany & Co., is reportedly in talks to acquire 745 Fifth Ave., a 35-story tower gracing the renowned shopping avenue, according to sources cited by Bloomberg. The lower three floors of this Fifth Avenue gem currently house a Bergdorf Goodman men’s store, and LVMH is engaged in a fierce bidding war with other contenders vying for ownership, as reported by Bloomberg. Neither Bergdorf’s parent company, Neiman Marcus, nor Paramount Group, the owner of 745 Fifth Ave., responded immediately to Bisnow’s request for comments.

The building also accommodates tenants such as private equity firm Eurazeo and law firm Haug Partners, according to the building’s official website. LVMH, known for its aggressive acquisition strategy, declared a spree for retail properties last year, investing nearly $2.7 billion globally. This included securing prime locations on Paris’ Champs-Elysées corridor and a central London site, as reported by Bloomberg. LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault emphasized the company’s pursuit of AAA locations, stating during an earnings call, “We try to secure and buy the best possible locations for our companies. If you take Fifth Avenue in New York, we have three of the best corners there are.”

This rumored acquisition comes on the heels of a major move by Gucci’s parent company, Kering, which recently spent a staggering $963 million on a 115,000 square feet retail condo at 715-717 Fifth Ave. In the previous month, Italian luxury fashion house Prada made a substantial investment of approximately $820 million, acquiring adjacent buildings across the street. Both of these deals were orchestrated by real estate mogul Jeff Sutton’s Wharton Properties. The battle for supremacy on Fifth Avenue’s luxury retail landscape shows no signs of cooling down.

Source: Bisnow

Prada Buys Building on Fifth Avenue in New York for $425 Million

By Columbus International,20 December 2023

The renowned Italian fashion house, Prada, announced the acquisition of the building housing its current store on Fifth Avenue in New York for a substantial $425 million. Since 1997, Prada had been leasing the five-story space at 724 Fifth Ave. and executed the purchase using internal resources in cash.

Prada emphasized the strategic significance of the property’s location, citing its increasing rarity and long-term potential as key factors in the decision. The 12-floor building, beyond serving as a retail space, holds the potential to offer office premises and storage facilities for the Hong Kong-listed company, according to the company’s statement.

Notably, New York’s Fifth Avenue holds the title of the world’s most expensive retail street, as indicated by a global ranking by real estate services firm Cushman & Wakefield. Despite robust growth in the Asia Pacific, Japan, and European markets, Prada faced challenges in the wider Americas region this year, with retail sales experiencing a 1.3% decline in the first nine months.

Source: The New York Post