Net Takeaways with Feller & Harf

Wrigley, Wawa, and the 7-Eleven Power Play

Episode Summary

In this episode of Net Takeaways, BJ Feller and Isaiah Harf dive into the week's biggest headlines, all while navigating the best traffic Chicago has seen in years, courtesy of the DNC. With Isaiah sporting shorts and gearing up for a Cubs game, the duo tackles the news with their signature mix of savvy insight and sharp wit. First up, they dissect the audacious $86 billion bid by Canadian giant Couche-Tard to acquire 7-Eleven. What does this mean for the convenience store arms race? And how is the evolution of these corner staples reshaping the retail landscape? BJ and Isaiah break it all down, from the potential FTC roadblocks to the rise of mega convenience stores that are replacing the once-dominant pharmacies. The conversation takes a swing through the world of net lease industrial deals, spotlighting two major Amazon transactions in Pennsylvania. As cap rates creep up and interest rates follow suit, the team explore what this means for the future of big-box retail and industrial spaces. And, of course, no episode would be complete without some classic banter about office attire, club memberships, and why Isaiah's kids are baffled by his trip to Wrigley. Whether you're here for the industry insights or the laughs, this episode has something for everyone. So, grab your headphones and join BJ and Isaiah as they navigate the ever-evolving world of net lease, one clever quip at a time.

Episode Notes

Chicago Traffic Miracle: The DNC is in town, but instead of chaos, BJ and Isaiah find themselves cruising through the best traffic Lake Shore Drive has seen in ages. Maybe we should invite the DNC more often?

The Shorts Debate: Isaiah makes a rare sartorial choice—shorts in the office! But don’t worry, he’s got a good reason: Cubs game after work. BJ, ever the professional, doesn’t miss her chance to comment on the changing tides of office attire post-pandemic.

Couche-Tard's Bold Move: $86 billion is the number on everyone’s lips as Couche-Tard makes an aggressive play to acquire 7-Eleven. BJ and Isaiah break down what this could mean for the convenience store landscape, from antitrust hurdles to the shifting role of these neighborhood staples.

Rise of the Mega Convenience Stores: With pharmacies on the decline, mega convenience stores like Wawa and Buc-ee’s are stepping in to fill the gap. The duo discuss how these mini shopping centers are redefining the hard corner real estate game.

Amazon's Industrial Double Play: Two major Amazon transactions in Pennsylvania have caught the market’s attention. BJ and Isaiah analyze the rising cap rates and what this signals for the industrial sector’s future.

Car Washes on Hard Corners?: Isaiah shares his thoughts on the growing trend of car washes popping up on prime real estate. Could this be the next big thing? Isaiah remains skeptical, but the debate is worth the listen.

Looking Ahead to 2025: BJ predicts that 2025 could be the best year for real estate fund formation in a decade. She and Isaiah explore why the time might be right for raising capital and deploying it strategically in the years ahead.

Family Loyalty Tested: Isaiah's Sox-loving kids are baffled by his decision to head to Wrigley for a Cubs game. Can you say household drama? But hey, at least the weather’s nice!

Wrap-Up: As always, BJ and Isaiah bring their A-game with a mix of industry insights and banter. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay tuned for more episodes of Net Takeaways.