As Burgess Rawson’s Head of Leasing, Victoria, John Brown is a key player in the commercial leasing sector, bringing over two decades of expertise across multiple industries. His deep understanding of market dynamics, tenant needs, and evolving retail trends has made him an invaluable asset to the team. With a reputation for crafting tailored leasing strategies, John has a unique ability to align tenant requirements with property offerings, ensuring both landlords and tenants achieve long-term success.
In this interview, John shares his perspective on the shifting retail leasing market in Victoria, how major brands influence the leasing process, and what challenges and opportunities landlords face.
Reflecting on your time at Burgess Rawson, how has your experience here shaped your approach to leasing strategy in Victoria?
Being part of a team that actively analyses market data and engages with landlords and tenants has provided valuable insight into shifting trends and emerging opportunities in the local market. It’s helped me refine strategies that not only meet the needs of landlords but also ensure tenants find the right spaces to thrive.
I’ve gained a deeper understanding of market dynamics, tenant priorities, and the importance of securing long-term, high-quality leases that benefit both landlords and businesses.
With your background across multiple sectors, how do you leverage this expertise to benefit landlords and tenants in today’s market?
Experience across sectors such as large-format retail, automotive, leisure, and pharmaceuticals has given me with a well-rounded perspective. This enables a keen awareness of cross-industry developments, allowing for creative solutions that benefit all stakeholders. A strong understanding of how different businesses operate ensures tenants are matched with spaces that truly suit their needs, while landlords gain secure, long-term occupancy. The focus is on making the right connections to achieve the best outcomes for all parties involved.
How has the appetite for retail spaces evolved and what types of tenants are driving leasing activity in Victoria?
Victoria’s retail leasing market has undergone significant changes in recent years, with a growing emphasis on community-focused retail experiences. This shift is driving demand for locations that offer strong visibility, high foot traffic, and a genuine sense of connection with the local community.
There’s a growing demand for spaces that can support omnichannel retailing, integrating both physical and digital shopping experiences. Tenants driving leasing activity include those in the large format retail, health and wellness sector, and experiential retail operators who offer unique in-store experiences that cannot be replicated online.
How has working with leading businesses influenced your approach to corporate leasing?
Working with major brands like Super Retail Group (Supercheap Auto, BCF) and Bapcor (Autobarn) has been an invaluable part of my corporate leasing experience. It’s enhanced my work at Burgess Rawson by underscoring the importance of aligning leasing strategies with broader business objectives. It’s also taught me to aim for flexibility in lease negotiations to accommodate the needs of large-scale retailers.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing landlords in the current leasing environment, and how can they position their assets for success?
Currently, landlords face challenges such as adapting to changing consumer behaviours, the rise of e-commerce, and the need for property sustainability. For instance, to position their assets for success, landlords may want to consider investing in property upgrades that enhance energy efficiency and creating spaces that can be easily adapted to various tenant needs.
What opportunities do you see in the Victorian leasing market, and how is Burgess Rawson helping landlords and tenants navigate them?
Emerging suburban hubs with growing populations offer exceptional opportunities for landlords and tenants due to increased demand and long-term growth potential. Burgess Rawson utilises market insights, strategic property positioning, and a wide network to help clients secure the right tenants and achieve long-term success.