As a growth hot spot, Denver's urban core is attracting new and expanding retail operations, but other parts of the Front Range are benefiting as well. We spoke with Confluent Development president and CEO Marshall Burton about retail growth in the region.

Denver-based Confluent, a turnkey build-to-suit commercial real estate developer with projects nationwide, recently completed four retail projects along the Front Range, including a MOD Pizza in Fort Collins and three Starbucks locations in Longmont, Broomfield and Colorado Springs.

Bisnow: Do you anticipate further retail/restaurant development growth for this part of Colorado?

Burton: The retail landscape continues to change nationally, and I anticipate Colorado to be no exception. As retailers and grocers work to retain a highly educated and tech-savvy consumer, successful operators will focus on the appropriate balance between e-commerce and brick-and-mortar.

Bisnow: What kinds of retail are growing in the Front Range?

Burton: Destination, specialty, convenience and discount retailers, along with restaurants and medical tenants will continue to make up a significant portion of the growth along the Front Range. As retailers and grocers right-size their real estate footprint, we anticipate development in the region to be driven by infill projects in underserved areas and reusing outdated and overparked retail centers.

Bisnow: What's ahead for Confluent?

Burton: We'll benefit from the region's growth. Our retail division [will be] an engine for growth — within the Front Range and nationally — with several projects currently in the planning stages. There will also be additional opportunities.