SPECS Show 2022
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    • About SPECS
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    • Chairman's Letter
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    • Attendees
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    • Our Team
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AGENDA

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PRINTABLE AGENDA
Tate 3
Sunday, March 20, 2022
2022-03-20
Exhibitor Welcome Luncheon and Orientation Panel Discussion
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
1:00 PM
2:00 PM
Yellow Rose Ballroom
Sunday, March 20, 2022
2022-03-20
Retailer Orientation Panel Discussion
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
2:30 PM
3:00 PM
Longhorn Hall A Foyer
Sunday, March 20, 2022
2022-03-20
Retailer-Only Networking Reception
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
Longhorn Hall BCD
Sunday, March 20, 2022
2022-03-20
Exhibitor-Only Networking Reception
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
3:00 PM
4:00 PM
Longhorn Exhibit Hall BCD
Sunday, March 20, 2022
2022-03-20
Exhibit Hall Open
4:15 PM - 5:45 PM
4:15 PM
5:45 PM
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Refreshments Served</span></p>
Tate Ballroom B-C
Sunday, March 20, 2022
2022-03-20
SPECS 2022 Welcome Reception
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
6:00 PM
7:30 PM
Tate Ballroom B-C
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Networking Breakfast
7:30 AM - 8:00 AM
7:30 AM
8:00 AM
Tate Ballroom B-C
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Keynote Address
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
8:00 AM
9:00 AM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Parlaying skills and tenacity perfected on the basketball court into the boardroom, Johnson’s business acumen has helped him build Magic Johnson Enterprises (MJE).<br /><br /> For the last two decades Johnson has consistently turned heads with his unprecedented partnerships. In his early years as an entrepreneur, he forged an alliance with Sony Pictures to develop Magic Johnson Theatres. In 1998, he teamed with Starbucks to become the only franchisee in the history of the company, acquiring and eventually selling 125 stores in a lucrative move. Still a commanding presence in popular culture, Johnson made history in 2012 when he became co-owner of MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers.<br /><br /> Johnson continues to expand his influence through his many businesses that include: EquiTrust, a $20 billion financial services company, and SodexoMAGIC, a food service and facilities management company. Through a newly formed fund, Johnson is investing millions of dollars on infrastructure improvement in the United States and is also one of the leading investors in a number of minority-owned technology companies.<br /><br /> On Monday, March 21, this influential investor will discuss his journey in sports, as well as his role as chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises.</span></p>
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Earvin "Magic" Johnson
Five-time NBA champion, Hall of Famer and influential investor
Magic Johnson Enterprises
Tate 1-5
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
THE MAIN STAGE presentation – Lead with Impact: Ignite the Spark in Your Workforce
9:15 AM - 10:30 AM
9:15 AM
10:30 AM
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Robert Stevenson
Global Speaker
Seeking Excellence, Inc.
With over 30 years of extensive corporate and entrepreneurial experience, Robert Stevenson understands what it takes to succeed. He is a man who knows how to deal with the risks, competition, and the ever-changing business arena. His ability to connect with an audience is amazing; be it a strategic planning session for a Fortune 500 company to 20,000 salespeople, he excels at blending humor, facts, inspiration, conviction and audience participation. Robert delivers high-energy programs that can help any company or person achieve higher levels of excellence. Today, he travels around the world, sharing powerful ideas for achieving excellence. His client list reads like the Who's Who in business. Companies like Prudential, FedEx, Berkshire Hathaway, Chevron, Harley-Davidson, Honeywell, KFC, Toyota, State Farm, Lockheed Martin, Caterpillar, American Express, Boeing, and Kellogg have all invited Robert Stevenson to help motivate, inspire and educate their employees.
Longhorn Exhibit Hall A
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Face2Face: Retailer/Exhibitor Information Exchange
9:20 AM - 11:00 AM
9:20 AM
11:00 AM
Longhorn Exhibit Hall BCD
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Exhibit Hall Open
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
11:00 AM
2:00 PM
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Lunch (12:00pm - 1:00pm) & Refreshments Served</span></p>
Texoma 3
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Changing Spaces & Places
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Standard 10- or even five-year leases are no longer mandatory. Instead, center owners are modulating their spaces and their leases to welcome short-term tenants or allow long-term tenants to expand to temporary spaces for special efforts, events, or promotions. Hear success stories directly from property owners and retailers.</span></p>
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Rebecca Fitts
Director of Real Estate
LEAP
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Michael Herman
Director of Construction
Starbucks Coffee Company
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Abram Schroen
Director, Retail Operations
Omaha Steaks
Texoma 2
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Utilities Cost Mitigation
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Managing consumption of water, electricity, thermal energy or gas in retail shopping malls is one way to improve the bottom line and reduce the property’s carbon footprint. Learn about the solutions that provide real-time monitoring, and tips on demand reduction and benchmarking.</span></p>
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Jason Parker
Energy Manager
Kum & Go
Jason Parker is an Energy Manager for Kum & Go; a family-owned convenience retailer headquartered in Des Moines, IA. He has a B.A. in Business from the University of Iowa and is recognized as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and BPI Building Analyst. In his role at Kum & Go, Jason is focused on reducing electricity, natural gas, and water consumption across 400 locations.
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Alexandra De Biasio
Sustainability Project Manager
Sephora
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Rob McKib
VP
Amerex
Escondido 1-2
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Designing Today's Sensory Retail Experience
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">A physical store’s atmosphere can take a shopping experience to new levels. Learn the role that lighting, flooring, even music/acoustics plays in the store experience — and how these elements impact retailers’ construction and design processes.</span></p>
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Mare Weiss
Principal
Bergmeyer
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Natalia Shorten
Senior Director of Store Design
Sephora
High Plains 2-3
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Construction Innovation: What’s Next?
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">The ongoing materials shortage has retailers exploring new solutions and opportunities to streamline projects and change the way buildings will be designed in the future.</span></p>
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Tony Bouquot
General Manager
Metal Building Manufacturers Association
Tony Bouquot is the general manager of MBMA - the Metal Building Manufacturers Association. MBMA provides leadership, research and education that increase the prominence and usage of metal building systems in low-rise, non-residential construction. Tony has been a leader in the building products industry for over 30 years.
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Christen Funk
President
Butler Manufacturing
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George Goddard
President
Span Construction & Engineering, Inc.
High Plains 1
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
RCA: How to Keep Projects on Schedule When Dealing with Labor, Materials Shortages and Construction Supply Chains
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">The far-reaching labor and materials shortages and supply chain issues are all taking a toll on retailers' construction projects. This session will discuss the solutions being employed by general contractors and retailers to manage the labor shortage and still keep projects on schedule.</span></p>
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Ray Catlin
President
Retail Contractors Association
With more than 25 years of retail construction experience, Ray Catlin was recently named president of Threecore, LLC, a nation-ally licensed general contractor and full-service construction firm dedicated to the successful delivery of projects spanning all sizes and degrees of complexity. Ray is responsible for all corporate operations including defining key initiatives, identifying emerging markets, and executing the company’s strategic vision for the future. Threecore’s values-driven foundation aligns with Ray’s personal mission to positively impact those around him, and foster a culture where emphasis is placed on building relationships internally and externally. Ray is the current Board President of the Retail Contractors Association and is a member of ICSC and NAIOP. He graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and earned his MBA from Texas Christian University.
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Dave Brown
President of Retail
Tri-North Builders
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Bob Moore
President and CEO, West Region
Gray
Bob Moore has led design-build construction companies for the past three decades, serving customers in the industrial, manufacturing, commercial and retail construction markets.
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Garrett Moss
President
Moss Utilities
I am the 5th generation of my family to be in underground utility construction going back almost a century. I've been around the industry since I was young and this has instilled in me a sense of pride and an appreciation for the history of my family and the type of work that we do. I am one of the lucky ones who can come to the office every day with a purpose and mission in what I am doing. My mission is to carry on the Moss legacy of the highest quality work and relationships with dedication to both my customers and my coworkers; the same standard that my grandfather came to work with every day and his grandfather before him.
Escondido 1-2
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Trends in Immersive Experiences
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">What are companies doing to bring life into physical retail and engage with customers? Join us for a deep dive into how retail experiences are changing — and hear from the retail innovators shaping this trend.</span></p>
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Jill Nickels
Founder, CEO
Nickels Group
Founder and CEO of the leading brand and design consultancy firm, Nickels Group, Jill Nickels has a proven track record of bringing vision into action. Her accomplishments include concepting global brands, accelerating retail expansion, implementing digital strategies, and delivering award-winning design. She brings innovative and pragmatic expertise in strategy, business transformation, digital integration, brand positioning, trend forecasting, consumer insights, and marketing assets. She has earned a reputation for redefining strategic visions and transforming retail, architectural, and outdoor apparel companies into industry leading, forward-looking brands.
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Phillip Raub
CEO
Model No.
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Erin Pelton
Director of North American Retail Stores
Wilson Sporting Goods Co.
Texoma 3
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Prime Potential in the Parking Lot
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Shopping centers are making different new uses of their plentiful parking space. From welcoming multifamily residential developments to adding tenants in outparcels, property owners are revamping unused space in the parking lot. Join us to hear success stories directly from retail partners.</span></p>
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Aaron Harris
VP, Real Estate & Construction
Dutch Bros
Since 2017, Aaron Harris has lead all development functions at fast-growing coffee retailer Dutch Bros Coffee. During his tenure, Aaron has overseen real estate, construction and facilities man-agement. His team is currently building more than 100 locations annually across 15 states. Prior to Dutch Bros Coffee, Aaron lead development for Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen for almost a decade. Aaron has been working in the QSR Industry since 1988, and worked with many different brands such as Arbys, Captain D’s, and Jack In the Box. He is fortunate to have worked on six conti-nents, and is still looking for a way to sell coffee in Antartica. Aaron has undergraduate degrees in History and English from St. Louis University and an MBA from Duke University. He lives with his wife and three teenage sones in Redondo Beach, CA. He likes to spend his free time complaining about traffic and training in mixed martial arts.
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Freddy Luster
Senior Director - Real Estate
FOCUS Brands
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Tracey Hall
Vice President Property Management
Phillips Edison & Company
High Plains 1
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
New Trends in Sustainability: Design, Construction & Operations
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Limiting the impact of climate change is a priority for the retail industry, and retailers are making big strides to reduce their impact on the environment. Learn which energy uses, sustainable materials and sourcing practices limit Scope 3 emissions, net zero greenhouse emission targets and carbon neutral operations.</span></p>
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Brian Storm
Construction Manager
Reece USA
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Sarah Skelly
Senior Manager, Sustainability North America
L'Occitane en Provence
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Joshua Witte
Director – Energy and Sustainability, Real Estate - Property Management
Dollar Tree & Family Dollar Stores
Joshua Witte has nearly 25 years of experience in the facility management industry. Currently, Joshua serves as the Director of Store Operations, Brand Maintenance and Repair for Ross Stores Inc., a position he has held since November 2017. In this role, he is responsible for maintaining the brand elements and image of Ross inside the physical box of the store. This encompasses fixtures, graphics, signage, cosmetic repairs, contracted services (primarily janitorial and floor care, but also includes vending, mat systems, security gates, shopping carts, etc.), and non-renovation capital projects, supporting the entire fleet of nearly 1,800 stores across the country. Prior to joining Ross, he was the Director of Retail Maintenance and Development for Samsung Electronics America for five years. Here, he led the strategic direction of facilities maintenance and repair for Samsung's retail footprint across North America, encompassing over 40,000 retail doors, and including the flagship located on Washington Street in lower Manhattan. Previously, Joshua was also the Director of Industry Programs at the PRSM Association, and a long-time project manager in the facilities management and construction departments of J.C. Penney. He also spent significant time on the vendor side of the industry.
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Colette Temmink
Chief Strategy & Product Officer
Blue Skyre IBE
Colette Temmink currently serves as Chief Strategy and Product Officer at Blue Skyre IBE. Blue Skyre IBE software, advisory and support services help real estate organizations maximize the performance of their teams, properties, portfolios and ESG programs. Prior to Blue Skyre IBE, Colette was President, Property Services at Eden and prior to this she was Global Head of Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) for Cushman & Wakefield. She was also Senior Vice President and Chief Administration Officer at Apollo Education Group and held global real estate roles at Boeing and Oracle. She serves as a Global board member of the International Facilities Management Association (IFMA).
Texoma 2
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Meeting Air Filtration Needs While Managing Costs
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Air filtration is more complicated than ever. Good indoor air quality in buildings depends to a great extent on the effectiveness of the HVAC air filtration system. Join us to learn the role and importance of systems including mechanical air filters, gas-phase systems, UV light systems, portable air cleaners and more.</span></p>
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Eric Borders
President
Dallas Chapter of ASHRAE
Eric Borders is a Senior Sales Executive for McMillan James Equipment Company and current Dallas Chapter of ASHRAE President. He graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering. Following graduation he worked for Carrier Corporation in Indianapolis, IN as a Sales Engineer. While working for Carrier Corporation he obtained his Masters of Science in Economics from Purdue University. He has been a Dallas Chapter of ASHRAE Board member for 5 years and 10 years’ experience in the HVAC industry along with 15+ years of sales experience.
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Jeremy Snyder
President
Ft. Worth Chapter ASHRAE
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Chris Spicer
Director, Industrial Hygiene
Gallagher Bassett Technical Services
Chris Spicer has more than thirty five years of experience as an occupational and environmental health and safety (OEHS) consultant, primarily concentrating on assessment and evaluation of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) issues facing the construction and commercial/retail/residential real estate communities. He has authored/coauthored more than fifty related publications and presentations, including peer reviewed technical articles in the American Industrial Hygiene Journal, Journal of the Air and Waste Management Association, Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Indoor and Built Environment and Environmental Monitoring and Assessment..
High Plains 2-3
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
EV Charging Stations
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">EV charging stations are popping up across retail locations as government mandates encourage transitioning away from fossil fuel. This session will explore how to construct and maintain the electric stations, as well as how legislation is subsidizing EV charging station construction.</span></p>
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Dan Garneau
Site Development Manager
Kum & Go
Dan Garneau is a licensed architect with more than 20 years of ex-perience in the retail design industry. Dan is currently Site Devel-opment Manager for Kum & Go in Des Moines, IA. Throughout his career, Dan has been a leader on a variety of tech-nical and creative projects. He is also experienced in green design and sustainability, adaptive reuse of historic buildings, as well as the design and construction of retail buildings.
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Victoria Sheehan
Commissioner
New Hampshire Department of Transportation
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Leendert Jan Enthoven
President
BriteSwitch LLC
Leendert Jan Enthoven is the owner and president of BriteSwitch LLC. Leendert was born and raised in the Netherlands, and earned his MSc in Engineering at the University of Technology in Delft. For almost two decades he worked in business roles for Philips Lighting in the Netherlands, followed by Poland, Belgium and the US. In 2008, he founded BriteSwitch, based in Princeton NJ, which specializes in both software database solutions and fulfillment of rebates and incentives for energy efficiency products & EV Charging stations for commercial properties across the US and Canada.
Escondido 1-2
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
A Step Inside the Retail Experience
4:20 PM - 5:10 PM
4:20 PM
5:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Discover how Petco is using experiential retail across its brand-new concept store Reddy to engage customers – and their four-legged best friends – in the fast-changing brick-and-mortar landscape.</span></p>
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Lance Comstock
Director, Visual Presentation
Petco Health & Wellness Co.
High Plains 1
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Current Construction Material Constraints
4:20 PM - 5:10 PM
4:20 PM
5:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Current supply and demand of steel, aluminum and plastics are affecting construction costs and schedules. Hear directly from retail construction professionals as they discuss the solutions and opportunities they use to manage increasing costs of building and remodeling projects. </span></p>
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Casey Fitzpatrick
Lead Construction Estimator
Wegmans Food Markets
Casey Fitzpatrick brings almost 20 years of experience in the construction industry to the SPECS Advisory Board. Currently, he is Construction Project Controls for Wegmans Food Markets, Inc., a position that requires him to work closely with project management staff, partner contractors and internal stakeholders to ensure accuracy and “best-value” with regard to construction project costs. After spending almost two decades filling various roles in the construction industry, Casey knows the true meaning of “best-value” and how to strategically leverage his knowledge of building construction, broad experience within the industry, and partner relationships. By applying this knowledge at Wegmans, Casey helps the company to produce state-of-the-art, truly immersive food markets while maintaining a cost efficient approach. In addition to his extensive experience in construction cost analysis, he is also seasoned in construction project management, and has a talented background in the field of carpentry. Casey is a returning member of the SPECS Advisory Board. He has also been a panelist for two showcased topics at past SPECS shows, and has co-moderated various table topics, as well. Casey holds a degree in Building Trades-Construction from the State University of New York at Alfred.
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Ben Longmire
Director of Construction
RaceTrac
Ben Longmire is a Director of Construction at RaceTrac Petroleum. Ben joined RaceTrac in 2012 after 10 years of managing commercial construction projects as a General Contractor. Since then he has overseen the modular building program, new store construction in Florida, and led the department that handled RaceTrac’s remodels, roll-outs, and fuel projects. In his current role, Ben is responsible for new store growth and special projects in RaceTrac’s East region.
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Ray Catlin
President
Retail Contractors Association
With more than 25 years of retail construction experience, Ray Catlin was recently named president of Threecore, LLC, a nation-ally licensed general contractor and full-service construction firm dedicated to the successful delivery of projects spanning all sizes and degrees of complexity. Ray is responsible for all corporate operations including defining key initiatives, identifying emerging markets, and executing the company’s strategic vision for the future. Threecore’s values-driven foundation aligns with Ray’s personal mission to positively impact those around him, and foster a culture where emphasis is placed on building relationships internally and externally. Ray is the current Board President of the Retail Contractors Association and is a member of ICSC and NAIOP. He graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and earned his MBA from Texas Christian University.
High Plains 2-3
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
The Latest Best Practices in Negotiation
4:20 PM - 5:10 PM
4:20 PM
5:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Retail success comes from open communication and collaboration between supplier and retailer partners. Retail experts share tips on how to best negotiate and collaborate with business partners from landlords to general contractors and suppliers. </span></p>
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Jill Nickels
Founder, CEO
Nickels Group
Founder and CEO of the leading brand and design consultancy firm, Nickels Group, Jill Nickels has a proven track record of bringing vision into action. Her accomplishments include concepting global brands, accelerating retail expansion, implementing digital strategies, and delivering award-winning design. She brings innovative and pragmatic expertise in strategy, business transformation, digital integration, brand positioning, trend forecasting, consumer insights, and marketing assets. She has earned a reputation for redefining strategic visions and transforming retail, architectural, and outdoor apparel companies into industry leading, forward-looking brands.
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Nikki Davidson
VP Property Management
Phillips Edison & Company
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Brent Paulsen
Managing Director, Head of Retail
UNTUCKit
Brent Paulsen has 30 years of retail operations experience, including store and corporate leadership roles at Bloomingdales, Home Depot and Sears. He joined Untuckit in the summer of 2016.
Texoma 2
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Facilities Risk Management Checklist
4:20 PM - 5:10 PM
4:20 PM
5:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Employee and customer safety has never been more important. From riot glass and bollard protection to fire detection, retailers are updating their checklist to ensure they can protect the premises and people. Facilities management executives will share their insights — and their top priorities. </span></p>
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Gary Kaganowich
VP/Sr. Manager US Programs and Major Infrastructure
TD Bank
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Tim Belka
Senior director, global security services
Walgreen Co.
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Cynthia Randall
VP
Gallagher Bassett Technical Services
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Susan Ford-Ahern
Sr. Regional Facility Manager
T-Mobile
Tate 3
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
Women In Retail Networking Reception
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
5:30 PM
6:30 PM
<p style="text-align:justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align:center;"><a href="/2022/exhibitors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span><img alt="" height="66" src="https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/1631294-6223e06e8e6ec.png" width="250" /><span title="Click and drag to resize">​</span></span></a></p>
Tate Ballroom B-C
Monday, March 21, 2022
2022-03-21
SPECS 2022 Evening Reception
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
6:30 PM
8:00 PM
Tate Ballroom B-C
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Networking Breakfast
7:30 AM - 8:05 AM
7:30 AM
8:05 AM
Tate Ballroom B-C
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Breakout Retailers Awards Presentation
8:05 AM - 8:20 AM
8:05 AM
8:20 AM
Tate Ballroom B-C
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Keynote Address
8:20 AM - 9:20 AM
8:20 AM
9:20 AM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Evolving demographics point to a bright future for physical retail. Learn how demographic and societal trends will unlock new brick-and-mortar opportunities in the future.<br /><br /> Ken Gronbach is a leading demographer and futurist — and he’s ready to discuss why “demography is destiny!”<br /><br /> Learn how and why Gen Y (millennials) and Gen Z — which combined represent twice the population of the baby boomers — are dramatically enhancing brick-and-mortar retail with increased consumption. At the same time, baby boomers, with money and time on their hands, will continue to influence retail sales as well as store access, layout and product mix.<br /><br /> On Tuesday, March 22, Gronbach will discuss how these generations, along with diversity and inclusion, are influencing physical retail, including store design, as well as real estate opportunities.</span></p>
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Ken Gronbach
Leading Demographer and Futurist
Kenneth W. Gronbach is president of KGC Direct, LLC and a best-selling author. More importantly, he an internationally respected demographer who uses a blend of marketing savvy and common-sense demography, based on twenty years of proprietary demographic studies. He has also been able to forecast societal, commercial, economic, cultural and political phenomena with uncanny accuracy. Ken has delivered keynote addresses in every state except Alaska, as well as presented in European Union, Middle East, Canada and Mexico. He also does high-level customized demographic research for individual clients that provide valuable data for strategic planning. You will find that Ken’s steadfast position, that the United States is the best Nation on earth, and his firm belief that the country’s best days are ahead in the post pandemic era. No stranger to corporate America, Ken built KGA Advertising, INC., a $40 million consumer/retail advertising agency, from the ground up in the 1980’s and 1990’s. One of Ken’s clients, a fashion apparel retailer, grew from $10 million in annual sales to over $400 million. Ken’s hobbies include building hot rod Mustangs and Porsches. Ken graduated from California State University at Long Beach. He and his wife enjoy living year-round in Southwest Florida.
Tate 1-5
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
THE MAIN STAGE presentation: Meet the Breakout Retailers Award Winners
9:30 AM - 10:45 AM
9:30 AM
10:45 AM
Longhorn Exhibit Hall A
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Face2Face: Retailer/Exhibitor Information Exchange
9:45 AM - 11:25 AM
9:45 AM
11:25 AM
Longhorn Exhibit Hall BCD
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Exhibit Hall Open
11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
11:30 AM
2:00 PM
<p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Lunch (12:00pm - 1:00pm) & Refreshments Served</span></p>
Texoma 2
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Planning Ahead: How Technology Can Drive the Value of Preventive Maintenance
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Cutting operating costs are critical and generating proactive maintenance practices are heating up. New innovative platforms help retailers reduce costs by predicting necessary maintenance prior to failure. Learn how technology and automation can prioritize equipment management and drive insight into when to retire or repurpose equipment/parts.</span></p>
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Michael Guinan
Vice President Operations Services
White Castle
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Casey Fitzpatrick
Lead Construction Estimator
Wegmans Food Markets
Casey Fitzpatrick brings almost 20 years of experience in the construction industry to the SPECS Advisory Board. Currently, he is Construction Project Controls for Wegmans Food Markets, Inc., a position that requires him to work closely with project management staff, partner contractors and internal stakeholders to ensure accuracy and “best-value” with regard to construction project costs. After spending almost two decades filling various roles in the construction industry, Casey knows the true meaning of “best-value” and how to strategically leverage his knowledge of building construction, broad experience within the industry, and partner relationships. By applying this knowledge at Wegmans, Casey helps the company to produce state-of-the-art, truly immersive food markets while maintaining a cost efficient approach. In addition to his extensive experience in construction cost analysis, he is also seasoned in construction project management, and has a talented background in the field of carpentry. Casey is a returning member of the SPECS Advisory Board. He has also been a panelist for two showcased topics at past SPECS shows, and has co-moderated various table topics, as well. Casey holds a degree in Building Trades-Construction from the State University of New York at Alfred.
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Don Holt
Special Project Manger Energy
AutoZone
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David Dillon
Director Facility Standards
Walgreen Co.
David Dillon is an established and results-oriented professional with more than 25 years of experience leading cross-functional teams in all phases of architectural engineering and interiors projects. He also has demonstrated expertise in a broad range of disciplines, including strategic planning and implementation; talent management; project documentation and delivery; project management; corporate standards development and application; sustainable design; building and safety codes; retail display safety and performance; risk management; contracting; change management, and construction administration. David is currently the Senior Manager of Facility Standards at the Walgreen Co., and responsible for overseeing the creation and maintenance of the company’s design and technical standards for all retail and healthcare facilities. He is a passionate and collaborative leader focused on driving technical innovation in new and remodel design and implementation. He also leads the exploration and leveraging of new technologies to deliver value-added outcomes that improve efficiency and quality and result in safer and more cost-effective retail and healthcare environments.
High Plains 2-3
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Location Strategies: Insights into Operating in Independent Locations
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">To remain successful in this new era of retailing, retailers are embracing new opportunities. Join us to hear how retailers are changing their location strategies and taking advantage of new retail environments and partnerships. </span></p>
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Katria Montepare
Sr. Director of Store Design and Special Projects
FOCUS Brands
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Lori Koeppe
Operations Coordinator
The Buckle, Inc.
Executive Advisory Board Member Lori Koeppe joined The Buckle, based in Kearney, Neb., in 1989, when the company had just 60 stores. The Buckle currently operates more than 450 retail stores in 44 states, catering to fashion-conscious young men and women and offering a unique mix of high-quality, on-trend apparel, accessories and footwear -- packaged in what is widely known as a "denim destination.” As operations coordinator, she is responsible for coordinating design for all construction and fixture projects for Buckle stores from concept design through store opening. She has coordinated several full design concept changes, as well as focus group projects. Lori is a veteran SPECS Advisory Board member and a multi-year Executive Advisory Board leader. Additionally, she serves on the DDI Editorial Board.
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Rebecca Fitts
Director of Real Estate
LEAP
High Plains 1
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Designing and Building QSRs to Meet Mobile & Curbside Pickup Demand
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">QSR brands are embracing mobile ordering and curbside pickup, and adapting traditional restaurants to stay relevant and compete. Explore the advantages of bringing fit-outs in-house, new design changes and other opportunities to bolster dining experiences.</span></p>
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Kevin Kilgore
VP, Design and Construction
FOCUS Brands
Kevin Kilgore has a 30-year Design and Construction background with various restaurants and retailers, architects and developers. As VP of design and construction for FOCUS Brands, Kevin leads all design initiatives for the portfolio’s restaurant brands and oversees all East coast development. Prior to joining FOCUS Brands he was director of construction for Jim N Nicks BAR-B-Q, responsible for all design, entitlement, due diligence and construction activities for the brand. Previously, he was also director of construction for Steak N Shake, senior program manager for Chick-fil-A, director of construction for CVS/pharmacy, and he has held various other project management positions with developers and architects. An architect by education, Kevin has a very strong background in multiple unit rollouts, national retail development, national construction programs, restaurant design and retail branding programs.
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Richard Elkins
Sr. Director, Construction Services
Firehouse Restaurant Group Inc.
Richard Elkins has been attending SPECS since 2012, the year he joined Firehouse Subs. His role there consists of managing the design development process and providing pre-construction services for Firehouse Subs franchisees. His attendance at SPECS and involvement with the SPECS Advisory Board has given him an opportunity to be involved with some of the finest professionals in the industry. He has also been able to find and partner with several vendors that have provided products and services used in Firehouse Subs restaurants. Richard is an avid runner, and has found a way to parlay his hobby into his professional life. He manages an annual fundraiser to support Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation — a long run, which proves to be a strong way to attract donors.
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Brad Cullen
Manager - Alternate Construction & Facilities
Domino's Pizza
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David Shotwell
Construction Manager
Sonic
David Shotwell, who holds a North Carolina General Contractor License, has more than 20 years experience working in the food and beverage industry. He is currently director of construction and facilities for Atticus Franchise Group, which operates Massage Envy and Sonic Restaurants. Throughout his career, David has worked for different companies in a variety of roles managing construction and corporate facilities. Among the brands where he applied his expertise include Applebee’s, Arby’s, Biscuitville, Bojangles’, Cook Out Restaurants, Panera Bread and Taco Bell. He has also held various roles at Commercial Finish Group, including Assistant Superintendent, Superintendent, Project Manager and Senior Project Manager. David has been a member of the SPECS Advisory Board since 2008, holding positions on the Executive Advisory Board, the Ambassadors Club and SPECS Advisory Board. He revealed that being part of the SPECS family has empowered his self-development, networking, and the experience offers a wealth of opportunity and knowledge into the building industries.
Texoma 3
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Top Five Adaptive Design Trends
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Developers are experimenting with new design concepts and tenant mixes to create groundbreaking shopping centers. Learn how developers are reimagining retail space to meet evolving consumer needs, and the role of pop-ups, touchless shopping innovations, showrooming designs and more.</span></p>
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Andrew Brezina
Associate Principal
CRTKL
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Gerry Renaud
Associate Principal Architect
CallisonRTKL
Gerry brings over three decades of professional experience in mixed-use, residential, multi-family, retail, office, hospitality, urban design and planning. In charge of establishing the design direction and overall character of a district, community, or building, he is responsible for leading teams on large-scale, complex projects with a wide variety of scopes. Education University of Texas at Austin, B. of Architecture (5-Year Degree) “We are all connected to our built environment. Our duty as stewards of that environment is to design communities that inspire, accommodate, comfort and entertain. We design to live the best way we can, sustainably, respectfully and creatively.”
Escondido 1-2
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Women in Retail
2:20 PM - 3:10 PM
2:20 PM
3:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Join us for a discussion that focuses on the skills and leadership journey of female executives in retail. </span></p>
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Makenzie Plusnik
Communications Manager
National Association of Women in Construction
High Plains 1
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Space Utilization: Conversion from Retail to Fulfillment & Co-Occupancy
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Retailers continue to find opportunities by repurposing and sharing existing retail space. Meet the retailers that are successfully reimagining their retail spaces and creating new business opportunities. </span></p>
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Andy Thompson
Sr. Director, Retail Programs & Construction Management
Walgreen Co.
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Chris Ressa
Executive VP, COO , DLC Management
DLC
With his dedication to solving real estate needs for entrepreneurs and national retailers coupled with his ability to thrive under immense pressure, Chris Ressa hasn’t let the challenges impede achieving his goals. He has persistently earned his way and has become an established industry influencer. No wonder he has been recognized by Chain Store Age by landing on the magazine’s 10 Under 40: Rising Stars of Retail Real Estate list.
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David Plunkett
Director, Retail Real Estate
T-Mobile
David Plunkett National Director, Retail Real Estate T-Mobile Dave is a 30-year dynamic retail professional who has had an opportunity to lead teams in sales, operations, and real estate. Over the past 7-years, Dave has led the Retail Real Estate team specifically focused on strategy and execution of T-Mobile & Metro by T-Mobile’s 14,000 retail stores across the country. Key focus has been to strategically grow T-Mobile’s distribution, integrate & optimize newly acquired and existing retail stores, and aggressively negotiate our multi-million-dollar portfolio. Dave holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University, and completed course work in real estate from Cornell University.
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Lauren Chipman
CEO
Chipman Design Architecture
A multi-disciplinary designer and performing artist, Lauren Chipman brings a distinct sense of creative leadership to her position as CEO at Chipman Design Architecture. Lauren’s unconventional background and sense of innovation bring a fresh perspective to hospitality, retail and restaurant spaces. Despite helming an established firm that supports clients like Chick-fil-A, Ulta Beauty, and Marriott, Lauren’s entrepreneurial vision goes beyond traditional industry approaches. A holistic leader, Lauren leverages her experience as an industry outsider to cultivate a forward-thinking environment composed of a diverse team. Lauren has spoken at numerous conferences, including Globalshop, Google Zeitgeist, design:retail Forum, and was recently recognized with vmsd’s “40 under 40 award.”
Escondido 1-2
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Training the Next-Gen of Retail Construction Professionals
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">New training methods are crucial to cultivate the next-generation of incoming construction professionals. Retail professionals discuss what it takes to lead, motivate and educate the new workforce. They will also share the strategies needed to improve leadership as well as inspire employees and boost their professional growth.</span></p>
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Doug Williams
Sr. Manager Design & Construction
Verizon Wireless
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Stephen Mattscheck
Prototype & Spec Manager
CVS Health
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Sara Iverson Smith
Director of Real Estate, Facilties and Construction
Blain's Farm & Fleet
Sara Iverson Smith is a real estate, facilities, and construction leader with over twenty years of hands-on management of nationwide projects in a variety of environments including health care, commercial, retail and fitness. Trusted advisor to executive teams on executing strategic goals for design and construction. Focus on interim and long-term strategy goals for expansion, remodels, relocations and community relationships. Demonstrated success in building teams, consistently recognized on project savings, elevated design of interiors and meeting project scopes on time and on budget. Sara has been with Blain’s Farm and Fleet for nearly three years, leading pre-development planning, market research, business plans for prospective locations including research and analysis of economy, real estate market fundamentals and industry trends. Property evaluation, feasibility analysis, and negotiation of acquisitions. Directs architectural, engineering, construction and facilities teams to ensure all projects designed and delivered on time and on budget. Blain’s Farm and Fleet is a family owned, regional powerhouse that offers a unique blend of products, services and value for people with rural sensibilities looking for practical, branded, high quality merchandise that meets their lifestyle needs.
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Darion Cranfield
Director, Retail Program Management
Walgreen Co.
Darion Cranfield leads multi-site, retail efficiency project execution for 4 asset-specific programs. He leads the team working to execute capital programs aimed at maintaining the company brand standard, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing the customer experience. He also champions an initiative to launch a divisional internship program focused on seeking and developing diverse talent. In addition to these roles, Darion serves as chair of WBA’s African American Leadership business resource group. His passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion helps to propel AAL’s mission to educate and empower team members while embracing the culture of African Americans through partnership and engagement.
Texoma 2
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Title 24 Update: What Does it Mean for Retailers?
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">The update for Title 24 (The California Building Energy Efficiency Standards) is scheduled to go into effect on January 1, 2023. This session will review the updates and how they will affect retail spaces. </span></p>
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Brent Felten
Client Relationship Director
Henderson Engineers
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Brian Alessi
Sustainability Director
Henderson Engineers
High Plains 2-3
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
New Trends in Renewable Energy
3:20 PM - 4:10 PM
3:20 PM
4:10 PM
<p><span style="font-family:Oxygen;">Renewable energy is a hot topic for retailers. Join us for a discussion about the top trends retailers should be ready for — and how to prepare to take advantage of the opportunities they offer.</span></p>
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Caitlin Smith
Senior Director, Regulatory, External Affairs & ESG
Jupiter Power LLC
Caitlin is an energy professional with over a decade of experience in regulatory policy. For the last nine years, she has focused on electricity market design and has worked both as an advocate for policies that have enhanced our electricity markets and as an advisor on the commercial and financial impacts of energy policy. Her broad experience in government and regulatory affairs, as well as in public affairs, have led Caitlin to becoming a well-versed speaker and author across topics ranging from clean energy to wholesale energy market design. Caitlin is the Senior Director of Regulatory, External Affairs & ESG with Jupiter Power— a leading energy storage developer and operator. Caitlin’s work focuses on aligning market incentives, resiliency, and the energy transition. She recently founded Jupiter Power’s Women’s Professional Development Initiative. Caitlin has in-depth experience with the ERCOT market and was the first in-house counsel for the Independent Market Monitor to ERCOT and currently sits on ERCOT’s Technical Advisory Committee. Caitlin holds a Bachelor of the Arts in Economics from the University of Texas, a Juris Doctor from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Laws in Environmental & Natural Resource Law and Policy from the University of Denver.
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Daniel Allegretti
Consultant
Sigma Consultants
Tate 1
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Exhibitor Wrap-up Meeting
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM
3:30 PM
4:00 PM
Tate 4
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
Retailer Wrap-up Meeting
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
4:15 PM
4:45 PM
Glass Cactus at Gaylord Texan
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2022-03-22
SPECS 2022 Appreciation Party
6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
6:30 PM
10:00 PM
<p style="text-align:center;"> </p> <p style="color:#ae1d34;text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:17px;"><strong>Featuring the high-energy supergroup EMERALD CITY BAND at The Glass Cactus!</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align:center;"><img alt="" height="380" src="https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/full/1598178-620d135b77b1c.png" width="623" /></p>
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