BIRMINGHAM, AL (October 15, 2026) – The Concord Township-City of Painesville Joint Economic Development District (JEDD) has selected Retail Strategies, a national retail recruitment and economic development firm, to lead its retail and restaurant recruitment efforts. The partnership will give the JEDD access to market research, data analytics, and direct outreach to retailers, restaurateurs, brokers, and developers looking to grow in Northeast Ohio.
The JEDD’s decision followed an in-person presentation to its board in June, where the Retail Strategies team outlined its approach to identifying the right brands for the district and actively marketing local opportunities to decision makers across the industry. Retail Strategies’ existing partnerships with communities across Ohio also weighed into the decision.
“We’ve worked with retail consultants in the past, but Retail Strategies stood out for the depth of their team and the reputation and relationships they’ve built here in Ohio,” said Rita McMahon, JEDD Administrator. “They showed up, they know our market, and their current clients in the region speak highly of the work they’re doing. We’re confident this partnership will help us bring the right retail and restaurant concepts to Concord Township and Painesville.”
Through the partnership, Retail Strategies will analyze the district’s trade area, identify retail and restaurant gaps, and build a targeted list of brands that fit the community. The team will then represent the JEDD at industry events and work directly with retailers, restaurant groups, brokers, and developers to market available sites and properties.
“The JEDD has a business-friendly approach, and investing in this partnership shows they’re serious about positioning Concord Township and Painesville in front of expanding retail and restaurant brands,” said Lizzie Sanders, Director of Community Partnerships for Retail Strategies. “We’re excited to put our team and our industry relationships to work for this community.”
About Retail Strategies
Retail Strategies is the national expert in retail recruitment and community development. Our mission is to provide the real estate expertise, tools, and human effort that position deserving communities as attractive locations for retailers, restaurants, and commercial investment. Acting as an extension of local staff, Retail Strategies combines market analysis, retail outreach, and industry relationships to help communities recruit businesses that strengthen local economies and improve quality of life. Retail Strategies has partnered with more than 1,000 communities across the United States to turn retail opportunities into real economic development outcomes.
