Westwood Financial, a leading necessity-based retail real estate investment firm that has a portfolio of over 125 high-quality shopping centers located in top American metropolitan markets, has announced its operational results for the three months ended March 31, 2026.
During the first quarter, the venture executed 14 new leases totaling 107,000 square feet, along with 25 renewals, totaling 92,000 square feet. The total leased percentage reached 97.6% vs. 97.3% year-over-year (30 bps). Inline shop leased percentage, on the other hand, reached 94.9% vs. 94.3% year-over-year (60 bps).
“Westwood continues to strengthen its position within the neighborhood retail sector through disciplined capital allocation and strategic portfolio management. Our focus remains on creating long-term value by investing in high-quality, necessity-based retail assets located in the country’s strongest growth markets,” said CEO KC Bills.
In March 2026, Westwood completed the sale of Kingsbury Center in Chicago, a 53,910-square-foot, dual-anchored retail center in the Clybourn Corridor. The retail real estate investment firm successfully repositioned the center after BuyBuy Baby left in 2023, executing an aggressive and proactive leasing effort, securing a 10-year lease with Sky Zone to backfill the entire space. The trampoline park opened in 2024. The property was 100% leased at the time of sale.
Westwood’s leased and occupancy metrics remained strong in the first quarter, reflecting the company’s continued focus on tenant retention and strategic leasing. In Chicago itself, Westwood Financial maintains a select portfolio of assets, including Clybourn Galleria in the North Side district; Elk Crossing in Elk Grove Village; Elmhurst City Centre in Elmhurst; and Sanders Court in Northbrook.
“Westwood’s operating performance reflects the strength of our necessity-based portfolio and the discipline behind our leasing strategy. Strong renewal activity, continued tenant demand, and targeted leasing execution are supporting rent growth across the portfolio, while strategic dispositions position us to reinvest in high-growth Sunbelt markets,” said Lauren Ball, COO.
Additionally, Westwood Financial executed a strategic relocation of its Atlanta office to Sandy Springs.