including malls anchored by major brands such as pharmacies, grocery stores, and home improvement stores like Loblaws, Shoppers Drug Mart, Metro, Canadian Tire, Walmart, Winners, The Bay, and Giant Tiger. In recent years, the pandemic presented challenges but also proved to be a pivotal moment for Westdell. Unlike many developers, their portfolio, which is focused on grocery-anchored and necessity-based tenants, remained resilient. They adapted by enhancing their systems, strengthening tenant relationships, and making strategic hires. According to Iyman, “This period not only tested us but solidified our culture and our unified approach.” Today, Westdell’s development footprint spans from Windsor to London and extends all the way to the Ottawa area. Their portfolio strikes a balance between secondary and tertiary markets, including communities such as Lucan, Ingersoll, Chatham, Lakeshore, and Port Elgin along Lake Huron, as well as Cobourg east of Oshawa, and Arnprior in the Ottawa region. Wherever they work, Westdell tailors their development strategy to the unique needs, wants and opportunities of the area. “For us, location goes beyond geographic coordinates,” Iyman explains. “It’s about understanding local and regional access, demographics, competition, and complementary land uses, all of which contribute to a development’s success.” While a prime location provides a strong foundation, Iyman believes it is only one piece of FEBRUARY 2025 Stoney Creek Commons 250,000 Sqft anchored by Food Basics, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Dollarama
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