W
estwood Financial, a leading privately held retail real estate investment firm, is marking 55 years of success in owning and operating top-performing grocery-anchored shopping centers across the US. Founded by Steven Fogel and Howard Banchik in Los Angeles in 1970, the company has cultivated a portfolio of over 125 high-quality properties, with a strong presence in Sunbelt markets like Atlanta, Austin, Charlotte, and Phoenix.

    With a focus on delivering stable income-producing real estate to stakeholders, Westwood Financial has executed over $4 billion in transactions. In the past year alone, the firm secured 83 new leases and 227 renewals, achieving a leasing volume of nearly 1 million square feet and maintaining an impressive 97.3% occupancy rate.

    Notable acquisitions include Eastway Square in Charlotte, Glenwood Park in Atlanta, and Paradise Hills in Phoenix. Westwood Financial also raised nearly $80 million in debt capital to support further growth and progress towards becoming an unsecured borrower.

    "We've remained adaptable and responsive to market demands, allowing us to thrive through decades of retail evolution," said Steve Fogel, Founder and Co-Chairman. "Our strong portfolio is strategically positioned for continued growth, with a focus on strategic acquisitions and leasing initiatives that enhance its value."

    Howard Banchik, Founder and Co-Chairman, added, "We're committed to building on our success, leveraging our expertise and market insights to drive future growth and expansion."