Prepare a Retail Exclusivity Request

An exclusivity request starts with the tenant’s actual business concern. “No competitors” is too broad for a productive landlord conversation. Ask which goods or services create the concern, how the tenant describes its own offering, and whether the issue affects opening plans, staffing, or lender requirements. Then ask the landlord for current center information through the approved channel.

Founder Elise tells broker Omar, “I am opening a dessert shop. I need the center to keep out anyone like us.” Omar says, “Let’s describe the products and service you plan to offer so I can present a clear request. I will also ask what commitments already exist.” Elise explains that her shop sells frozen desserts prepared when ordered and hosts small children’s parties. Omar learns that a bakery is negotiating a lease across the courtyard. He records the known use, asks the landlord how the proposed bakery is being described, and avoids interpreting either tenant’s prospective lease. When Elise asks whether the landlord will wait, Omar says the owner controls timing and he will request an update.

Bring a concise business summary to the discussion: the tenant’s intended use, the concern, the opening date, and the requested priority. Keep reported facts separate from assumptions about another tenant. The landlord may share information it is authorized to share. Proposed lease language belongs with the tenant’s counsel for review, including any definition, exception, duration, or remedy.

In coaching, make the founder use a vague phrase such as “similar store.” The broker should ask follow-up questions until the request can be written plainly. Assess the roleplay by reading the broker’s recap. It should identify the landlord question, the tenant decision, and the counsel handoff without suggesting that a particular term has already been secured.