The Retail Brokers Network, a nationwide retail networking group, tapped Charlotte-based Currier Properties president Debbie Currier as its new president. She's a tenant rep specialist and the first woman to hold the position in the organization’s almost 25-year history. Debbie tells us that the org, which has 65 member offices, plans to aggressively add new retail brokerages in markets where it doesn't have representation. "Being a part of RBN is an advantage to our members because it provides access to information and resources on a national scale," she says.

"Our members across the county report an increase in new retail construction, and leasing activity continues to be strong especially for well-located retail properties," Debbie adds, with some markets—such as Denver and Dallas—booming more than others. The Charlotte retail market has improved significantly in the last couple of years, with retailers finding Charlotte an attractive market for expansion, driving vacancies down and spurring new developments. "It's an exciting time in Charlotte after coming off such a slow period."