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Shopping Centers Today -> June 2002
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REMEMBERING DRACHMAN
To the Editor:
My son sent me the article from the March issue of Shopping Centers Today which announced the passing of one of our all-time greats — Roy Drachman. I recall a conversation with Roy many years ago which is worth passing along to future generations in our wonderful industry.
Roy was about to build his first shopping center and asked Mr. J.C. Nichols (who, of course, was builder of the first center, Country Club Plaza, in Kansas City) for some advice as to the location of the center on the property.
When Roy asked Mr. Nichols how much he owed him, Mr. Nichols replied, “Nothing.” Roy protested. Mr. Nichols then said: “Son, one of these days you will be in the position in which I am today. Just pass it on.”
Roy lived by that advice, and I believe there is no one who ever asked for help who was not the recipient of Roy’s time, thoughtful consideration and most gracious words of wisdom.
Times have changed. But would it not be wonderful if this entire industry operated today in accordance with this Roy Drachman legacy?
Bernard
A. Dahlem
Founder
Dahlem Realty Co.
Louisville, Ky.
FIXING GAP
To the Editor:
Regarding your article, “The Trouble with Gap” (SCT, April 2002):
The Gap has too many Old Navys and some are too close to Gap stores. The Gap has made some fashion mistakes, but it is still the highest-volume-per-square-foot apparel retailer in most centers. They do almost twice the volume per square foot that’s done by other apparel retailers.
The Gap’s real estate and the type of leases that they have made gives them a strong foundation as a company. Landlords may complain the Gap deals weren’t good enough, but it’s not so. They pay percentage rent and perform well. Any smart landlord should appreciate what they have. It’s been better, but it can be easily fixed.
Merritt
Sher
Chairman
Metrovation/Terranomics Development
San Francisco
Have an opinion? Let us know. Send letters to: Editor, SCT, 1221 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020-1099, or e-mail them to: emander@icsc.org
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