According to the 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook report by the International Franchise Association (IFA), Michigan is projected to be the seventh-best state in the U.S. for franchise business growth this year. This ranking isn’t just a fluke; it’s the result of a resilient economic ecosystem that is attracting brands and entrepreneurs from across the globe. 

By the Numbers: Michigan’s Franchise Boom 

The data behind Michigan’s rise is staggering. As we move through 2026, the state is proving that its “Make It in Michigan” strategy is paying dividends for local communities: 

• New Business Surge: Michigan is projected to add 369 new franchise establishments in 2026 alone. 

• Job Creation: Michigan’s franchise sector is projected to add 4,726 new positions this year, bringing the state’s total franchise workforce to over 264,000 employees. 

• Economic Impact: The franchising sector now contributes more than $27.2 billion to Michigan’s annual economy. 

Why Michigan? The “Opportunity-Rich” Advantage 

What is drawing national brands to the Great Lakes State? Business analysts point to a combination of strategic state investments and a stabilizing macroeconomic environment. 

Earlier this year, Business Facilities recognized Michigan as one of the nation’s top “Opportunity-Rich States,” citing its business-friendly climate and aggressive workforce development initiatives. In fact, Michigan recently climbed to No. 4 nationally for Workforce Development, ensuring that new franchisees have access to the skilled talent they need to scale quickly. 

Matt Haller, President and CEO of the IFA, notes that the franchise model is particularly well-suited for Michigan’s current landscape. “Franchising is better positioned to navigate an improving economic environment than independent businesses due to tax certainty, lower interest rates, and investments in AI,” Haller stated. Michigan’s leadership in these areas has allowed local entrepreneurs to mitigate risks that often sink independent startups. 

Beyond the Big Names: A Diverse Landscape 

While many think of fast food when they hear “franchise,” Michigan’s growth is incredibly diverse. From Ann Arbor’s tech-driven service brands to new hospitality ventures in Detroit—which was recently named “City of the Year” by Wallpaper Design Awards—the opportunities span every industry. 

The state’s cost of doing business also remains a major draw. Ranked No. 4 in the nation for cost-effectiveness by CNBC, Michigan offers a lower barrier to entry for first-time franchisees compared to coastal markets like California or New York. 

The Road Ahead 

As Michigan joins the ranks of other high-growth states like Texas, Florida, and Georgia, the message to entrepreneurs is clear: the Mitten is open for business. With nearly 9 million Americans employed by franchises nationally, Michigan’s aggressive push into this sector isn’t just about adding store signs—it’s about building a stable, resilient, and diverse economy for the next generation. 

Whether you’re a seasoned multi-unit operator or a first-time business owner, Michigan’s current trajectory suggests that 2026 is the year to plant your flag in the Great Lakes State. 

Looking to Expand Your Franchise in Michigan? 

The data is clear: Michigan is a top-tier destination for growth in 2026. However, securing the right location in a competitive market requires more than just a map—it requires local intelligence and a strategic approach to site selection. 

Whether you are looking to enter the Metro Detroit market or expand your footprint across the state, Keystone Commercial Real Estate is ready to help. Our team specializes in comprehensive tenant representation, leveraging deep-rooted local expertise and advanced data analytics to find the sites that drive performance. 

Ready to find your next location? Reach out to Keystone today to discuss your expansion goals and let us help you navigate Michigan’s thriving retail landscape. 

Sources 

• DBusiness Magazine: Michigan a Top 10 State for Franchise Business Growth in 2026 (Published March 5, 2026). 

• International Franchise Association (IFA): 2026 Franchising Economic Outlook (Projecting Michigan as the #7 state for growth). 

• Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC): Michigan affirms its momentum as an ‘Opportunity-Rich State’ (Based on Business Facilities 2025/2026 evaluations). 

• Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer: New Ranking Puts Michigan in Top 5 in Country for Workforce (Citing the Site Selection Magazine 2026 rankings). 

• CNBC America’s Top States for Business: Michigan Ranks No. 6 in Top States for Business (Highlighting Michigan’s #4 ranking for Cost of Doing Business). 

• Wallpaper Magazine:* Detroit is City of the Year 2026 (Recognizing the city’s regeneration and investment climate). 

The post Pure Opportunity: Why Michigan is a Top 10 Powerhouse for Franchise Growth in 2026  first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

According to the Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2026 report by PwC and the Urban Land Institute, Metro Detroit has climbed to #16 nationally for investment prospects—a staggering ascent from #39 just two years ago. While the ranking is broad, the current data reveals a specific, high-conviction story: the massive retail supply gap. 

Current market metrics reveal a high-velocity shift in absorption, extending from the high-traffic Woodward corridor to the supply-constrained submarkets across the metro area. By analyzing localized consumer capture and vacancy compression across these primary thoroughfares, the data confirms that retail has become a lead driver for institutional-grade yield in 2026.

The “Demand Gap”

While national headlines often focus on a “retail apocalypse,” Metro Detroit is facing a supply-demand imbalance. Nowhere is this more evident than in the localized spending data of the region’s primary suburban corridors. 

Investors are pivoting away from “commodity” retail toward high-utility, mixed-use assets. The demand for modern, walkable retail space is currently outpacing supply to the point that municipalities are actively rezoning underutilized land to meet the deficit.

The “Halo Effect” of Luxury Anchors

National rankings are heavily influenced by “proof of life” markers. The 2026 report specifically highlighted the impact of luxury anchors like Gucci and the Apple store in downtown Detroit. 

These are not merely single-asset leases; they are market signal-callers. When global brands of this caliber establish a presence in the Central Business District, it creates a “halo effect” that stabilizes and drives up valuations for retail assets across the entire metro area. It signals to institutional capital that the “Detroit Risk” has officially shifted to a high-conviction opportunity.

Record-High Optimism

The quantitative outlook for early 2026 is exceptionally bullish. The Michigan Retail Index recently hit a three-month outlook score of 85.3, with over 90% of retailers predicting sales increases. This level of optimism is a strong indicator of sustained consumer strength. 

At the same time, new retail construction remains at a ten-year low, with less than 1 million square feet in the pipeline metro-wide. For the savvy investor, this creates the “Golden Ratio”: record-high consumer optimism paired with a critical shortage of modern inventory and a vacancy rate hovering near 6%—a healthy benchmark for rent growth.

Navigating the “Fog”

We are still navigating a “foggy” economy with fluctuating interest rates and construction costs. However, Detroit’s advantage remains its affordability moat. With business and living costs sitting significantly below the national average, our local consumer base has more discretionary “retail fuel” than their counterparts in hyper-expensive coastal markets. 

The Bottom Line 

We continue to navigate a “foggy” macro-environment defined by fluctuating interest rates and construction costs. However, Detroit’s competitive advantage remains its affordability moat. With business and living costs sitting significantly below the national average, the local consumer base maintains more discretionary “retail fuel” than their counterparts in hyper-expensive coastal markets. 

-Put Our Market Intelligence to Work: Allow our team help translate these national trends into local results. Contact us today to see how we can optimize your commercial assets.

SOURCES: 

PwC & Urban Land Institute (ULI): Confirms Metro Detroit’s #16 national ranking and status as the top-rated Midwest market for 2026. 

Crain’s Detroit Business: Coverage of the September 19, 2025, grand opening on Woodward Ave and its impact on the city’s retail narrative. 

KeyCrew / Farmington Hills Data: Source for the $100M existing household spending and the $30M untapped retail “capture” potential in high-traffic corridors. 

City of Farmington Hills: Official record detailing the corridor market studies and demand for grocery and “soft good” retail. 

Michigan Retailers Association (MRA): Source for the record-high 83.7 and 90.0 optimism index scores heading into 2026. 

Marcus & Millichap: Provides data on the record-low construction pipeline (under 1M SF in major metros) and stabilized cap rates. 

Cushman & Wakefield: Data on localized absorption rates and vacancy compression in key submarkets. 

The post Why the Motor City is Dominating National Real Estate Rankings  first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

Economic Misconceptions and Retail Evolution

When asked about the broader implications of, yet another, big box retailer closing their doors, Norman Abro quickly began dismantling the assumption that these store closures were simply a result of economic decline. “The closures of JoAnn and other big-box retailers… have undoubtedly made headlines, often painting a picture of economic distress in retail real estate. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story,” he asserts. Instead, Abro highlights a retail evolution, characterized by a dynamic shift in tenant profiles. “While legacy brands are exiting, we’re seeing a strong wave of new and expanding retailers eager to backfill these spaces—often at higher rents than the previous tenants.” Specifically, he points to the burgeoning demand from experiential and fitness-based retailers, such as “Pickle Rage, Wicked Pickle, Ace Pickleball, PGA Tour Superstore, Planet Fitness, Crunch Fitness, and VASA Fitness,” which are actively repurposing these large spaces. 

Comparison to Other Retail Closures

When comparing the departure of JoAnn’s to other recent retail closures, Abro notes, “The recent closure trend follows a broader pattern we’ve observed, but there are key distinctions in how these closures impact the market.” He explains that JoAnn stores, typically larger, present different challenges than smaller spaces left by Party City, while Big Lots’ locations in varying income markets require distinct leasing strategies. Regarding the absorption of these vacant spaces, Abro anticipates a varied timeline. “Absorption will depend on location, co-tenancy, and market demand, but we anticipate a mix of quick backfills and longer repositioning timelines.” He emphasizes the importance of location, stating, “Prime locations in high-traffic retail corridors are likely to lease up faster,” while acknowledging that “some spaces—especially in secondary or lower-income markets—may take longer to lease.” 

Advice for Landlords: Proactive Strategies

For landlords facing these vacancies, Abro advises prompt action. “My advice to landlords facing vacancies due to retail closures is simple: act fast and be proactive. The longer a space sits vacant, the harder it becomes to lease.” He stresses the need for strategic planning, including potential space subdivision and targeting emerging retail categories. “Landlords should also assess their options strategically. Can the space be backfilled as-is, or does it need to be subdivided to attract a wider range of tenants? Are there emerging retail categories—such as off-price, fitness, entertainment, or medical—that could be a good fit?” Abro points to specific emerging retail concepts showing interest in these large spaces. “We have seen a lot of Pickle Ball concepts along with some kids play places looking at these boxes because the need a lot of space with high ceilings.” This highlights a clear trend, where large spaces are being re-purposed for entertainment and experience based businesses. 

The Role of the Local Economy

While strategic planning and adaptation is important, Norman continues by highlighting the role of the local economy in filling these spaces. “The overall health of the local economy plays a critical role in the ability to backfill vacant spaces. Strong consumer spending, population growth, and job stability drive retailer demand.” Ultimately, retail real estate is hyper-local. Even in markets facing economic challenges, well-positioned properties in prime trade areas will continue to attract tenants, while weaker locations may require repositioning or redevelopment to remain viable. 

In conclusion, while JoAnn’s closures have created visible vacancies, Norman Abro’s insights reveal a market ripe for reinvention. Landlords who act swiftly, embrace new retail concepts and strategically adapt their spaces will find success in this evolving landscape. Michigan’s retail real estate is not declining, but transforming. 

For Additional information on JoAnn Fabric’s Bankruptcy, visit: Newsweek

The post Expert Insights: Navigating Michigan’s Post-JoAnn Retail Landscape first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

Chick-fil-A’s commitment goes beyond just business. The company is also dedicated to giving back to the communities it serves. Through initiatives like donating to Feeding America and providing grants to local nonprofits, Chick-fil-A is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of Michigan residents.

Want to know more? Head over to the Chick-fil-A press room for the full scoop on their ambitious plan here.

So, get ready Michigan, more Chick-fil-A goodness is coming your way!

The post Chick-fil-A Announces Major Expansion Plan in Michigan first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

Tuesday, August 27th, was the celebration that marked the highly anticipated grand opening of the first Sheetz location in Michigan. The convenience store chain, known for its made-to-order food, 24/7 service, and extensive beverage selection, drew a large crowd eager to experience the new addition to the local scene.

Grand Opening Celebration

The Romulus store, located at 33380 Wick Rd., kicked off its grand opening with a celebration featuring giveaways, free food samples, and special offers. Attendees had the opportunity to sample Sheetz’s signature menu items, including its famous made-to-order sandwiches, burgers, and breakfast options.

Community Commitment

In addition to the grand opening festivities, Sheetz announced its commitment to the local community by donating $5,000 each to the Forgotten Harvest and Special Olympics of Michigan. These contributions demonstrate the company’s dedication to supporting local causes and making a positive impact on the area.

Expansion Plans

Sheetz’s expansion in Michigan is far from over. Sheetz is expected to open several more locations throughout Michigan in the coming years, bringing its unique brand of convenience and hospitality to the state. With its focus on fresh, high-quality food, friendly service, and a variety of amenities, Sheetz is poised to become a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

The rapid expansion of Sheetz in Michigan is being spearheaded by Keystone Commercial Real Estate, in partnership with Skilken Gold. Keystone has played a pivotal role in identifying prime locations and securing the necessary real estate for Sheetz. The Keystone team’s expertise and deep understanding of the Michigan market has been instrumental in the successful rollout of Sheetz locations throughout the state

• Previously announced locations:
  • 8200 Telegraph Road, Taylor
  • 20623 Eureka Road, Taylor
  • 45011 Garfield Road, Macomb
  • 31925 Van Dyke Avenue, Warren
• Newly announced locations:
  • 9 Mile Road and I-94, Eastpointe
  • 12 Mile Road and Mound Road, Warren
  • Lapeer Road and Silverbell, Orion Township

With its commitment to providing exceptional customer service, fresh food, and a variety of amenities, Sheetz is poised to become a beloved destination for Michigan residents and visitors alike. As the company continues to expand its presence in the state, it is clear that the future of convenience stores in Michigan is brighter than ever.

The post Sheetz Has Arrived: A New Era of Convenience Comes to Michigan first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

A Network of Opportunities 

ICSC Las Vegas brings together the biggest names and brightest minds in commercial real estate. From established developers to rising stars, the attendee list is a goldmine for potential partnerships and collaborations. The event facilitates connections through designated networking areas, industry receptions, and topic-specific roundtables. Above all, it’s a networking event. When the industry comes together, there are connections to be made, connections that could lead to your next big deal. 

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The commercial real estate landscape is constantly evolving. ICSC Las Vegas puts you at the forefront of these changes. Educational sessions cover everything from the latest retail trends to the hottest tech transforming the industry. You’ll gain insights from industry leaders, discover groundbreaking ideas, and learn how to navigate the ever-shifting market. This knowledge equips you to advise your clients with confidence and position yourself as a market leader. 

Find Inspiration & Innovation

ICSC Las Vegas isn’t just about business deals; it’s about sparking inspiration. The expo hall showcases cutting-edge products and services that have the potential to change the commercial real estate industry. Being aware of those products and changes can keep you in the game. It has never been more crucial to stay current and well-prepared to adapt to wherever the industry is going, because it will go, with or without you. Don’t sleep on CRE.  

Professional Development 

ICSC Las Vegas offers a wealth of professional development opportunities. Workshops and seminars hone your negotiation skills, sharpen your marketing strategies, and equip you with the latest legal and regulatory knowledge. This commitment to continuous learning ensures you’re providing the best possible service to your clients and staying competitive in a dynamic market. 

Building Client Relationships 

While many attendees are industry professionals, ICSC Las Vegas also attracts potential clients –– retailers, developers, and investors seeking the expertise of brokers like you. By strategically participating in events and workshops, you can position yourself as a valuable resource and connect with those actively seeking your services. 

As customary, the Keystone team will be at ICSC Las Vegas, May 20-21. If you would like to meet with one of our advisors, contact us today to schedule an appointment or stop by the Site Source booth to discuss opportunities in the Michigan Market.  

The post ICSC Las Vegas 2024: What’s the Big Deal for Commercial Real Estate Brokers  first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

Lakeside Town Center, a $1 billion mixed-use redevelopment, is a promise to reshape the retail and commercial landscape in the region. Lionheart Capital, a Miami-based developer, has announced a transformative plan for the Lakeside Mall site in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

Background of the Lakeside Mall

The Lakeside Mall, a long-standing retail hub since 1976, is currently home to a host of small tenants and is anchored by Macy’s and J.C. Penney stores. Despite its rich history and recent expansions and renovations, the mall is about 20% occupied, leading to the decision for its redevelopment.

Acquisition and Future Plans

Lionheart Capital acquired the underperforming Lakeside Mall in 2019 through its Out of the Box Ventures subsidiary. The acquisition, part of a strategic move to repurpose the site, laid the groundwork for the future $1 billion Lakeside Town Center project

The proposed Lakeside Town Center is set to be a vibrant, mixed-use community. The development plans include the construction of approximately 2,800 apartments, including senior housing, and 150,000 square feet of retail space. The project also envisions 60,000 square feet of offices, a 120-room hotel, and a community center. A significant feature of the development is the 30 acres of green space, providing a breath of fresh air and a place for community activities and leisure.

Financial Aspects and Incentives

The development of the Lakeside Town Center is a major financial undertaking. It is set to be partly financed by proceeds from a planned $45 million bond sale by the city of Sterling Heights. In addition, Lionheart has secured a $3 million grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. to acquire smaller parcels around the mall. The company is also exploring the possibility of additional local and state incentives.

Conclusion

The Lakeside Town Center project is a bold step towards the revitalization of the Lakeside Mall site. With its comprehensive plan and significant financial backing, the area is set to transform into a thriving, mixed-use community that will serve as a model for future developments in the region.

Interested in properties currently available in Sterling Heights, check out our area listings on our properties page.

https://themetrodetroitnews.com

https://product.costar.com

The post A $1Billion Dollar Bet on Sterling Heights: Lakeside Mall’s Proposed Redevelopment first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

Strategic Partnership

Dozens of Sheetz employees and Romulus residents gathered inside a bustling tent to witness the commencement of construction at 33380 Wick Rd., situated at the intersection of Wick Rd. and Vining Rd. The event symbolized the beginning of a new chapter for Sheetz, showcasing the collaborative efforts of Skilken Gold and Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

Since 2022, the strategic partnership between Skilken Gold and Keystone has been instrumental in orchestrating Sheetz’s expansion into the Michigan market. Together, they have worked tirelessly to refine market strategies and execute deals with precision, demonstrating a commitment to driving growth and delivering unparalleled convenience.

Groundbreaking Convenience & Community Support

With plans to open 50-60 stores in Michigan over the next five to six years, Sheetz is investing $500 million into the state’s economy. This ambitious endeavor reflects the company’s dedication to providing convenient and innovative solutions to meet the needs of Michigan residents.

In addition to its commitment to convenience, Sheetz is also focused on supporting the local community. At the groundbreaking ceremony, the company announced a $10,000 donation each to the Romulus Public Library, Forgotten Harvest and The Special Olympics of Southeast Michigan and revealed plans for an ongoing partnership with The Special Olympics, emphasizing its commitment to making a positive impact beyond its storefronts.

A Highly Anticipated Opening

The Romulus location is slated to open its doors to the public around Labor Day 2024. As Sheetz prepares to become a household name in Michigan, its presence signifies a new destination for convenience and a beacon of community support and partnership.

For more information on the Sheetz groundbreaking, visit WXYZ Detroit.

For more information regarding Sheetz Michigan expansion, read Oh Sheetz! : 24-Hour Convenience Coming To Michigan.

The post Sheetz Groundbreaking: Bringing Convenience and Community to Romulus first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

HERstory Detroit: Bold Women who Dared at Huntington Place – March 4

Detroit’s history is rich with the stories of pioneering men who shaped the city, but what about the women who stood alongside them? HERstory Detroit aims to shine a spotlight on these unsung heroes, celebrating the trailblazers who dared to make their mark on the Motor City. Join City Tour Detroit on a historic journey that highlights the remarkable contributions of Detroit’s bold women, whose legacies continue to inspire us today.

International Anime Music Festival at the Masonic Temple Theatre – March 5

Step into a world where anime and music collide at the International Anime Music Festival. This immersive concert experience brings together the biggest stars of anime pop for a night of electrifying performances. With dazzling visuals, state-of-the-art effects, and pulsating beats, prepare to be transported to a realm where fantasy meets reality in the heart of Detroit.

BareFace at Connection Church – March 11

Embark on a journey into the enchanting world of Glome with Ballet 5:8’s captivating performance of BareFace. Set against a backdrop of Grecian fairytales, this dynamic story ballet mesmerizes audiences with its blend of athleticism, storytelling, and visual artistry.

Detroit St. Patrick’s Parade along Michigan Avenue in Corktown – March 12

Get into the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day with the annual Detroit St. Patrick’s Parade in Corktown. Join the revelry as marching bands, floats, and colorful displays fill the streets, creating a festive atmosphere like no other. With a history dating back over a century, this beloved tradition brings together thousands of spectators to celebrate Irish culture and heritage in the heart of Detroit.

The Albert – 1228 Griswold St, Detroit

Located near Michigan Ave lies the Albert – a commercial oasis in the heart of Capital Park. Principal and Keystone Commercial Real Estate co-founder Greg Newman represents the location. We recommend checking out all the Albert has to offer: 

La Laterna: Menu is a celebration of classic Italian cuisine, with a focus on Neapolitan-style brick oven pizzas, handmade pastas, and mouthwatering paninis.

Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters: Coffee roasters with a focus on building community through the sharing of desserts and live music. 

Charminar Biryani House: Acclaimed Indian restaurant focusing on providing the most authentic Indian cuisine at affordable prices.

Boyd: Facial Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa offering skincare products, body sculpting, and cosmetic operations.

Juice Box Blend: Juice bar offering a wide variety of juices and smoothies, ice cream and desserts, and cookies, featuring unique blends of Middle Eastern fruits, vegetables, and spices.

More March Madness

March in Detroit is packed with a plethora of events to keep you entertained all month long. From the adrenaline-fueled action of the AMA Supercross Championship to the cultural exchange at the Michigan Sneaker XChange, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in the Motor City!

For more resources on what to do in Detroit, visit Secret Detroit and Visit Detroit.

For more information about the commercial real estate industry, please visit our other articles. 

The post March Madness in the Motor City first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.

The post Oh Sheetz! : 24-Hour Convenience Coming To Michigan first appeared on Keystone Commercial Real Estate.