Alesha Shemwell, interim CEO of WR, spoke at the March 2026 luncheon hosted by the CCIM Washington Chapter on March 18 in Bellevue. The event was held at the Bellevue Club and focused on the evolving landscape of retail across Washington state.
During the fireside chat, Shemwell shared insights with commercial real estate professionals and business leaders about the challenges and opportunities shaping today’s retail sector and why it is necessary to be involved at the political level. As consumer behaviors continue to evolve and economic pressures influence how and where people shop, Shemwell emphasized the importance of understanding the broader retail and policy environment.
She provided an overview of WR and its role in supporting retailers statewide through advocacy, policy engagement, and industry resources. Shemwell also highlighted how retail intersects with other sectors of Washington’s business community and discussed the importance of collaboration among business associations, policymakers, and industry leaders.
Attendees heard a candid assessment of the current retail climate in Washington, including legislative and economic factors affecting retailers of all sizes. Shemwell also offered a forward-looking perspective on trends expected to shape the future of retail and how those changes may influence commercial real estate, local economies, and community development.
The luncheon brought together professionals from across the commercial real estate industry and provided an opportunity to exchange ideas while gaining a clearer understanding of the forces influencing retail in Washington. The conversation underscored the continued importance of strong partnerships between retailers, developers, and business advocates as the industry continues to evolve.
