News
St. Petersburg, Fla. (February 12, 2024) – Foundry Commercial, a full-service real estate services and investment firm, has been named the retail leasing and merchandising partner for The Sundial, an 85,000-square-foot retail project in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg. Carrie Bobb, Senior Vice President of Retail Services at Foundry, is partnering with Paradise Ventures on the leasing and merchandising for the project. hellojenny, Foundry Commercial’s social media marketing company which she co-founded, is managing the social media operations.
Foundry was selected for the role by Paradise Ventures, the St. Petersburg-based owner of the mixed-use development. Originally opened in 2000 and having undergone multiple renovations since then, The Sundial is set to have new courtyard renovations finished by this summer, along with the addition of new retail concepts to be added throughout.
Alongside Paradise Ventures, Foundry’s vision for The Sundial is to create a “little sister” of Hyde Park Village, a popular outdoor retail space spanning six blocks in the heart of south Tampa. Targeting both local favorites and national brands, Foundry’s approach to marketing The Sundial will be to expand and elevate the retail and restaurant offerings in St. Petersburg, joining existing tenants Tommy Bahama, Chico’s, White House Black Market, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, and several others.
“When I first came to know The Sundial and their goal for elevating the customer experience, it was impossible not to fall in love with St. Petersburg – the beach lifestyle, the people, the beautiful backdrop. I was drawn to how family-oriented the population is, how they are brand loyal yet cost-conscious, and how digitally connected the city is. The Tampa Bay region is magnetic for creative thinkers, and I really believe The Sundial has the potential to create something meaningful for residents and visitors in St. Pete,” she said.
Bobb has an extensive track record since beginning her career in 2003. Having worked with marquee brands throughout her career like SoulCycle, West Elm, Sephora, lululemon, drybar, and Shake Shack among others, she is an expert at creating an experience that stands out for consumers.
“In this post-COVID environment, landlords are using retail brands and leasing strategies to evoke emotion and create a sense of place,” Bobb said. “The Sundial courtyard vision is to create a backyard-like environment in downtown St. Pete. Everyone from the high-rise residents who call St. Pete home to visitors who are exploring the town will feel welcomed by the strong sense of community. Whether they’re shopping, dining, or going to see a movie, The Sundial will be a space that creates memorable experiences and brings people together.”
The Sundial is the largest contiguous retail space in St. Petersburg. Leasing opportunities are available to interested parties. To learn more about The Sundial or to request leasing information, contact Carrie Bobb at carrie.bobb@foundrycommercial.com or 619.318.0453.