Portland's First Board Game Bar "Another Round" Coming Soon

If you're a fan of board games, coffee, local brews, or just seeking a novel hangout spot, you'll want to mark your calendar for the late May opening of Another Round on Congress Street.

Owner Harry Sultan is preparing to unveil Portland's first board game bar and cafe at 549 Congress St. in Portland, Maine. In our recent discussion, it was clear he has put tremendous thought and effort into making this a truly unique space.

Sultan worked with Cheri Bonawitz and Karen Rich of Malone Commercial Brokers to secure the lease. “Cheri was there every step of the way,” Sultan explains, “I never really thought I would end up owning the space, and Cheri kind of helped me understand what it would take to go through that whole process and spelled everything out in a very demystifying way.”

Originally from New York, Sultan first discovered his love for Maine after attending the Salt Institute here in 2017. When the pandemic allowed him to relocate full-time, he identified an opportunity to fill a niche in Portland's hospitality landscape.

"We're aiming to create a space where you can swing by for great coffee or local craft beer, with a community board game focus at the core - something currently missing in Portland," explained Sultan.

From the layout to the amenities, every aspect has been strategically designed with community board gaming in mind. Sultan is working with Woodhall Architects and Construction to entirely transform the former downtown office space.

A centerpiece will be the massive, modular pegboard shelving system lining one wall to house Another Round's staggering collection of over 200 board games.

"We're making this custom pegboard shelving," said Sultan. "So, as we get new games or rotate the selection, the entire system is adjustable."

Sultan wants something there for everyone, from families, to board game enthusiasts, and anyone in between. Spanning the timeless classics like Monopoly and Guess Who, to the newer classics like Catan and Ticket to Ride, to the more advanced like Wingspan and Twilight Imperium, the pegboard shelving will artfully display the diverse library.

The layout will feature a handcrafted wooden bar serving espresso drinks and local beers, with seating for solo guests to enjoy a quick game while waiting to meet others. But the focus is on maximizing space with larger tables that can accommodate even the biggest board game setups.

"For me personally, I don't have a great place to play board games at home. That's a key reason why I felt a dedicated space like this was needed," noted Sultan.

Placards will be available for patrons to display at their table, signaling their interest in joining a game or having others join them in an intuitive way.

While groups like the local "FriendCon Alliance" exist, Sultan wanted to establish a physical hub to foster the existing board gaming community that had a little more flexibility with its hours, something he missed when first moving to Portland.

Following a soft opening around Memorial Day, Another Round plans to operate Wednesday through Sunday, 8am to 9pm initially to cater to tourists and those with flexible schedules. These hours and days are subject to change as they iron out operational details.

Longer-term, Sultan has ambitious plans to expand with a roastery and coffee carts once the board game bar concept is proven successful.

"This is the proof of concept I'm putting my full effort behind," said Sultan. "I'm hoping we can demonstrate that there's strong demand for spaces like this in Portland."

Based on the amount of thought poured into every detail, it's hard to imagine board game aficionados and novelty-seekers alike not embracing Another Round when it opens its doors at 549 Congress Street in late May. Sultan concludes, “as excited as I am to see it myself, I'm more excited for everyone else to come see it.”

The Greater Portland Retail Forecast for 2024 by Peter Harrington

On February 29th, 2024, Peter Harrington of Malone Commercial Brokers presented “The Greater Portland retail forecast for 2024” at the Maine Real Estate Development Association’s (MEREDA) 2024 Conference. The following is a review of what Harrington presented.

Looking back at 2023, the retail scene in the greater Portland area remained resilient though we did see a slight uptick in the overall vacancy rate from 4.23% to 4.33%. A large portion of the vacancies in the market can be attributed to a few spaces. In Portland, where the vacancy rate stood at 3.9%, lease rates displayed quite a range, spanning from $8 to $40 per s/f for triple net spaces and $25 to $35 per s/f for modified gross spaces. Notably, the Old Port, which can be difficult to track due to the number of retail spaces, showed a vacancy rate of around 2%, with lease rates ranging from $40 to $75 per s/f on a modified gross basis.

There weren’t as many retail buildings sold in 2023, but one notable transaction was the sale of the West Elm building on Middle St. for $5.2 million, which included approximately 3,700 s/f of unfinished space on the lower level.

Scarborough stood out with an impressively low vacancy rate of 0.9%. Scarborough also saw the opening of the first Costco in Maine. Additionally, the ongoing development of the town center at the Downs project promises an enticing blend of retail, dining options, and recreational facilities.

In South Portland, a 5.1% vacancy rate persisted, primarily attributed to the former Sears space. However, the Maine Mall managed to achieve pre-pandemic sales levels despite operating with reduced hours. New tenants such as Box Lunch, Peapod Jewelry, Carters, and Miniso added vibrancy to their retail landscape.

Westbrook had seemingly high vacancy rates at 14.7%, which is mostly due to the former Shaw’s vacancy. The Rock Row development has continued to captivate interest, buoyed by attractions like REI, Market Basket, Chick-fil-A, and Cowbell Rock Row. On the downtown front, Westbrook exhibited strong occupancy and ongoing residential expansions.

Meanwhile, Falmouth maintained a steady vacancy rate of approximately 2%, with ongoing construction at the shops at Falmouth Sq. — a 20,980 s/f retail space that has already secured substantial interest, alongside plans for upper-floor condos ranging from $550,000 to $1 million.

Southern Maine is still a strong destination for tourists as well as locals. We’re seeing tremendous demand for space on the peninsula in Portland. Madewell opened at 75 Market St. a little over a year ago, it’s one of the top stores they have. Construction is underway to convert former retail banking and office space at One Canal Plaza to high-end retail offerings.

There are two ongoing historic rehabilitation projects by East Brown Cow, which will help contribute to the vibrancy of retail offerings in the area. One is on the corner of Middle St. and Exchange St.; all retail spaces at this location have been leased. The other rehab is at 121 Middle St. Both will be stunning properties when completed. A few weeks ago, we orchestrated a lease with Free People at 121 Middle St., which will be their first store in Maine. A 2,470± s/f retail space still remains next to this exciting new tenant. We are continuing to see the best-of-breed retailers realizing the value of Portland and continuing to expand here, complementing the locally-owned, award-winning restaurants, shops, and breweries.

One potentially adverse factor that could impact retail in 2024 is that interest rates are still high. This could lead to a slowdown in some of the retail that’s directly related to housing in the U.S. Weather has been another factor. There have been major weather events coast to coast which have affected retail a little bit since the beginning of the year.

Despite these factors, we think 2024 will be another good year for retail. It’s, as always, based on the U.S. consumer. Due to the strong wage growth, and additional jobs being added, the U.S. economy continues to expand. Without new retail space being added, overall vacancy rates will remain low.

Retail is a sector that everyone thought would no longer be as viable with the onslaught of online shopping. This has proven to be incorrect. People are still going out and shopping in physical stores. I don’t see that trend ending in the U.S. anytime soon. Frankly, it’s what a lot of people like to do, it’s about the experience.

Alice Yardley, Founder of Vibrant Handbag Brand, Opens New Storefront on Exchange Street in The Heart of the Old Port

Alice Yardley standing proudly in front of her new Exchange Street space

Malone Commercial Brokers is pleased to announce that Alice Yardley, the creative force behind a unique handcrafted leather bag brand in Maine, has leased space at 99 Exchange Street in the Old Port. Peter Harrington of MCB brokered the transaction. Yardley ultimately outgrew her previous space on Washington Ave prompting the move. The new space marks a significant milestone for the designer's flourishing brand as she eagerly introduces her unique and colorful designs to the Exchange Street community.

Yardley's brand began as a passionate hobby while teaching high school in Atlanta and New York City. In 2019, she honed her love for leatherworking, transforming her hobby into a thriving business with a commitment to sustainability and creativity at its core. "I wanted to create something that brought joy and brightness into people's lives," Yardley explains.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, her dedication to her craft remained unwavering. "The initial quarantine allowed me to focus even more on my business and creations," she reflects. Her approach caught the attention of industry insiders, leading to her participation in New York Fashion Week's "Ones to Watch" showcase in September 2020.

Yardley's philosophy revolves around sustainability and vibrancy. "I handcraft every leather bag myself, using predominantly leather remnants to minimize waste and reduce my carbon footprint," she emphasizes. Her designs are a kaleidoscope of colors that exude playfulness and charm.

The new store on Exchange Street embodies Yardley's vision of a welcoming and vibrant space. Renovations include exposing original brick walls, adding warmth and character to the ambiance, as well as creating an immersive boutique experience for customers. "I love the concept of having my studio open to the public to allow people to watch me while I work, see the machinery, touch the leather scraps, and feel inspired. My studio space will be open in the back of the store, with the retail section in the front,” Yardley shares.

Expressing her gratitude for the support received during the move, Yardley praises her experience with Pete Harrington and Malone Commercial Brokers. "It was a seamless process that happened so quickly and efficiently," she acknowledges. "Everyone has been so helpful in answering my questions, supporting my small business, and cheering me on through this transition."

As Yardley prepares to welcome customers to her new space, she conveys her excitement and enthusiasm. "I can't wait to share my youthful, colorful, and energetic handbags with the shoppers of Exchange Street!" For more information about Alice Yardley's handcrafted leather bags and the grand opening of her new store, visit https://aliceyardleymaine.com/ or follow her on social media @aliceyardley.maine.

Free People Lands in Maine at Historic Thompson Block: A Milestone in Portland's Retail Landscape

121 Middle Street

East Brown Cow and Malone Commercial Brokers are pleased to announce that Free People, a renowned fashion brand known for its eclectic and bohemian-inspired clothing, is set to make a significant mark in the heart of Portland, Maine. With the recent acquisition of a lease at 121 Middle Street, the retail enterprise will occupy 4,401 square feet in the Historic Thompson Block building. Originally completed in 1867, 121 Middle Street is a four-story, 37,847 square foot Second Empire style building that was designed by Architect George M. Harding. The deal was brokered by Peter Harrington of MCB and Tim Duffy of The McDevitt Company.

121 Middle Street offers Free People an ideal storefront with high visibility, foot traffic, and a dynamic retail environment. The new space will showcase Free People's latest collections, providing customers with unique shopping experience.

 “We’ve been working closely with our partners at Malone Commercial Brokers to carefully curate the growing retail mix in our properties throughout the Old Port,” says Tim Soley, President and CEO of East Brown Cow. “Based on our current mix of both local and national retail tenants, and their success in these locations, we’re extremely confident that Free People will only continue this exciting trajectory and further activate the vibrant urban fabric of Portland’s unique downtown. We look forward to welcoming them to Maine.”

Peter Harrington, a seasoned commercial real estate broker with a proven track record of successful transactions, especially in Portland, played a pivotal role in securing this prime location for Free People. Harrington expressed his enthusiasm for completion of the deal, stating, “It’s great to have Free People signed at 121 Middle Street. Urban Retail will now have three stores on Middle Street, along With Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters. They are one of the best retail groups in existence. I can’t think of any better tenant to have anchor the first floor.”

Harrington’s deep understanding of both the brand's vision and the local market dynamics ensured a beneficial deal for all parties involved. He reflects on the experience, expressing, “Working with the team from East Brown Cow and Tim Duffy, from McDevitt, was a great experience. The collaborative nature of this deal highlights the strength of partnerships, creating mutually beneficial outcomes in the world of commercial real estate.”

As Free People prepares to set up shop at 121 Middle Street, both the brand and the local community anticipate a positive transformation in the retail landscape. Harrington remarked, “When its historic rehabilitation is completed this spring, 121 will be an even more stunning building.” The new location is scheduled to open its freshly renovated doors in August.

Best Advice I've Received - Cheri Bonawitz

Cheri Bonawitz, CCIM

From my experience and giving advice is that building strong relationships, both within your industry and in the community, is crucial in the field of real estate. Surrounding yourself with a great team, whether it’s your business partner, colleagues, or trusted professionals in various fields, creates a supportive environment that can lead to success.

The emphasis on collaboration and the sense of family within my brokerage firm is extremely important to me. Real estate transactions often involve numerous professionals, and having a reliable network of contacts from attorneys, to CPAs and other specialists, is invaluable. Trust is essential in these relationships and taking the time to build a rolodex (I know-old word!) of trusted sources for your clients reflects a commitment to their well-being.

Continue your ongoing education as I have with my CCIM designation. Continuing to learn and staying updated on industry trends and practices is crucial for staying competitive and providing the best service to your clients.

Volunteering not only in professional organizations, but also in areas that you are passionate about adds a personal touch to your professional life. It not only allows you to make a positive impact in the community but also enhances your network and can lead to business opportunities through referrals.

I can assure you that success will come from fostering strong professional relationships, continuing education, and community involvement.

By: Cheri Bonawitz for Maine Realtor Magazine

Broker Excellence: Nurturing Knowledge, Igniting Innovation.

Jennifer Small of MCB recently attended the ICSC New York, an annual 2-day event that includes dealmakers and industry experts throughout the United States who are driving innovation and evolution, mainly in the retail industry. Jenn shares a little more about her experience:

“The ICSC is a very well-attended event where I learned so much about innovation in our industry, specifically retail, and I’m excited to bring back some of those ideas to the Maine commercial real estate market. Two standout seminars were: ‘The Real Cost of Commercial Real Estate’, which offered a comprehensive outlook, dissecting opportunities and risks with industry experts like Andrea Drasites, Karly Lacono, Meghann Martindale. The session on ‘The Gold Tenant’ explored how top retailers impact center development, featuring insights from Molly Morgan, Doug Munson, and Barrie Scardina. A powerhouse of knowledge and networking, the ICSC New York keeps me at the forefront of industry developments!”

At Malone Commercial Brokers, our brokers consistently seek knowledge to spark creativity within the realm of commercial real estate. We want to make sure you get the best possible insights from our team. Attending events like ICSC are our gateway to excellence. Are you ready to elevate your commercial real estate experience? Don’t be shy, send us a message!

Coastline Direct Primary Care: Redefining Healthcare for Scarborough Residents

Dr. Kelsey McDonald & Andrew Ingalls

Malone Commercial Brokers is excited to announce a significant development in the healthcare landscape of Scarborough. Dr. Kelsey McDonald has secured 2,500 square feet at 144 US Route One to establish Coastline Direct Primary Care. Andrew Ingalls of Malone Commercial Brokers brokered the transaction.

Coastline Direct Primary Care, the new venture by Dr. McDonald, is more than just a medical facility – it represents a transformative approach to healthcare. Dr. McDonald is departing from the conventional fee-for-service model that often leads to administrative burdens and fragmented patient care within the traditional healthcare system. "The idea is really to simplify primary care outside of the insurance world," Dr. McDonald explained. Coastline Direct Primary Care seeks to remedy these complexities by establishing a direct relationship between patients and Dr. McDonald through a convenient monthly membership fee.

Notably, Coastline Direct Primary Care is designed to provide a more personalized healthcare experience. Dr. McDonald aims to offer longer appointments and comprehensive services, all covered by the membership fee. "Direct Primary Care eliminates these complexities; it's just me and the patient, offering a more personalized and accessible healthcare experience," she affirms.

Dr. McDonald recognizes the potential impact on local businesses, discussing how small enterprises can contract with Coastline Direct Primary Care to provide affordable and accessible primary care services, potentially improving employee retention.

The medical office space at 144 US Route One is undergoing substantial renovations to create a modern, welcoming environment. Dr. McDonald envisions the space evolving into a hub for healthcare services, possibly accommodating additional healthcare providers in the future.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Dr. McDonald commended working with Andrew Ingalls. "Working with Andrew has been great. He has been incredibly flexible with my schedule and available when I need him, especially on short notice. He’s worked hard to keep things moving forward which I appreciate and has made this a positive experience."

Andrew Ingalls, expressing confidence in the project, believes Coastline Direct Primary Care will redefine healthcare accessibility in Scarborough and beyond. "Working with Dr. McDonald was terrific. She was positive and thoughtful throughout the process, and I believe she'll bring that determination to her practice. She seeks an improved doctor-patient relationship, one in which both parties get to know each other and work together to promote a healthy future. Plus, 144 Route One is a high-quality medical building in a terrific location. Great combination!"

Anticipated to open its doors in early March 2024, Coastline Direct Primary Care promises a refreshing healthcare experience for the Scarborough community. Dr. McDonald extends an invitation for patients to join her on this transformative journey towards simplified, patient-focused primary care, concluding, “It’s really an amazing model; I think this is the way of the future.”

If you’re interested in learning more about Dr. McDonald and Coastline Direct Primary Care, head over to their website at www.coastlinedpc.com.

PRICE REDUCTION ALERT! The Rockland Talbot House & Berry Manor Inn Await Their New Adventure

The Rockland Talbot House and Berry Manor Inn are two historic marvels nestled in the heart of Rockland, Maine. A recent price drop makes owning these treasures an opportunity you won't want to miss!

Rockland Talbot House: A Glimpse into the Past

As you step into this Victorian-era marvel with its twelve-foot ceilings, grand staircase, and intricate woodwork, you're transported into a historical wonderment. Originally built for a ship captain, purchased by David Talbot in 1905, and painted by Edward Hopper in 1926, this mansion has witnessed quite a bit of history. From a family home to a retirement home and now, a welcoming retreat for visitors, it continues to grace the town of Rockland with whatever venture the owners desire.

Modern Comforts in a Victorian Setting

Contrary to its age, the Rockland Talbot House embraces modernity in its decor. Vibrant patterns and contemporary colors adorn the rooms, providing a perfect blend of history and comfort. Comfy mattresses, individual climate controls, fireplaces, and cozy reading spots invite true rest and relaxation.

Versatility in Spaces

Two porches, two dining rooms, a grand parlor, and a library offer ample space to spread out and savor the elegance of the Rockland Talbot House. Beyond a inn, it serves as a venue for meetings and special events. From small weddings and corporate meetings to community gatherings and retreats, the possibilities are as endless as the history within its walls.

Berry Manor Inn: Relaxed Elegance

For over two decades, the Berry Manor Inn has set the standard for "B&B Relaxed Elegance." Recognized by TripAdvisor among the Top 25 Best B&Bs and Inns in the US, it epitomizes luxury without pretentiousness. Renowned for its homemade pies, Victorian hospitality, and genuine warmth, it offers an ideal location to explore Maine's arts, heritage, and coastal wonders.

Planning Your Perfect Maine Getaway

Certified by the state of Maine as an environmental leader in the hospitality industry, Berry Manor Inn is open year-round. Whether one craves outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or touring Maine’s culinary scene, the Berry Manor Inn is the place to come back to for a relaxing retreat.

Seize The Opportunity

Don't let this chance slip away. Owning The Rockland Talbot House and Berry Manor Inn means becoming apart of Rockland's history and hospitality. Your story begins HERE.

Reach out to Cheri or Karen for more information!

View the listing here: https://malonecb.catylist.com/listing/30843152?pb=11378125

Conway Scenic Railroad Expands Shore Excursion Adventure with Acquisition of VIP Business

VIP Tour & Charter

Malone Commercial Brokers is pleased to announce the sale of VIP Tour & Charter, a motorcoach tour and charter company founded in 1985, to Conway Scenic Railroad. They will also be purchasing the real estate in the near future. Their plan is to occupy this premier location for many years to come.

Conway Scenic Railroad, renowned for its nostalgic excursion trains, is on track to revolutionize the cruise experience in Portland, Maine, with the acquisition of VIP Tours. The deal, brokered by Karen Rich and Cheri Bonawitz of Malone Commercial Brokers, marks a significant milestone in Conway Scenic Railroad’s strategy to grow and diversify its offerings.

Karen Rich noted that from the first meeting between the buyer and the seller, “the synergy and mutual respect was evident immediately.” Lana Sawyer, the owner of VIP, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Karen has truly been a pleasure to work with. It took some time to find the right people, but Karen didn’t give up on us. She was very instrumental in our journey to the end - day or night through thick or thin.”

For Dave Swirk, co-owner of Conway Scenic Railroad, the expansion is about creating a superior and rewarding experience for guests from around the world. As he noted to Seatrade Cruise News, “This is so rewarding to me. It’s so unique. It brings joy to my heart to see people enjoying this. You want to feel like you did something to make a difference in the world. This makes a difference.”

In emphasizing the significance of the VIP name, Rich stated, “Dave felt that the VIP name was essential to maintain as it has such a long and outstanding history in the transportation industry since they began 38 years ago.”

Sawyer shared her excitement for finding the right buyer, pointing out that Conway Scenic Railroad is “the perfect match for VIP Charter Coaches.” According to her, they share the vision and possibilities for VIP in the future.

The absorption of VIP tours includes a fleet of eight tour buses, two transit buses, and five shuttle vans which will enhance flexibility and allow for more competitive pricing for cruise lines. The company aims to create new and exciting tours in and around Maine, in addition to the train journey.

Exclusively Gluten-Free, Bam Bam Bakery Brings Refreshing New Option to Falmouth

125 Bucknam Road in Falmouth / Photo courtesy of Cassie Demick

We're thrilled to share some exciting news here at Malone Commercial Brokers – the successful leasing of a fantastic 1,961± square foot freestanding building at 125 Bucknam Road in Falmouth. This strategic move is set to significantly enhance the local business landscape, with Bam Bam Bakery, a trailblazer in the world of gluten-free baked goods, securing the lease from The Antonia Sotiropoulos Revocable Trust.

Bam Bam Bakery is no stranger to innovation, and this expansion is a testament to their commitment to providing top-notch, gluten-free delights to the Falmouth community and beyond. As the demand for high-quality gluten-free offerings continues to grow, Bam Bam Bakery is making strategic moves to ensure they can meet and exceed customer expectations.

The lease transaction, brokered by Mike Anderson of Malone Commercial Brokers, was a key factor in bringing this exciting venture to fruition. With a wealth of experience in commercial real estate, Anderson played a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless negotiation process that aligned with the goals of both parties.

Mike Anderson shared his insights on the transaction, saying, "Facilitating this lease for Bam Bam Bakery was a rewarding experience. The location at 125 Bucknam Road presents an exciting opportunity for the bakery’s growth, and I’m confident it will become a focal point for the community seeking high-quality gluten-free options. I look forward to witnessing Bam Bam Bakery’s continued success in this vibrant space."

Stay tuned for more updates as Bam Bam Bakery works to transform 125 Bucknam Road into a hub for exceptional gluten-free baked goods, further solidifying their position as a pioneer in the industry. We're proud to be a part of this growth story and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the Falmouth community!