Retail Developers Maintain Momentum in Ohio and Beyond Despite Rising Tariff Pressures

Despite concerns over trade policy and material costs, retail developers like Abbell Associates proceed with major projects, including a $57M Ohio shopping center.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 6, 2026, 6:51 AM EST

Source: Bisnow

Sustained Investment in the Face of Trade Volatility

A prominent example of this ongoing activity is the $57 million shopping center development currently underway in Toledo, Ohio. Liz Holland, CEO of Chicago-based Abbell Associates, is moving forward with the project despite the challenges of pricing construction materials under new tariff regimes. The decision to advance reflects a broader sentiment among retail stakeholders: while policy uncertainty creates friction, the demand for localized retail infrastructure remains strong enough to justify the risk of fluctuating input costs.

Navigating the Cost of Construction Materials

The primary concern for developers like Holland lies in the volatility of the supply chain. Tariffs on imported steel, aluminum, and other essential construction components directly impact the "pro forma" of a project—the financial exercise that determines if a development is viable. Retailers and developers are currently forced into a defensive posture, often having to over-calculate contingencies or secure materials early to hedge against sudden price spikes. This strategy, while costly, is being viewed as the only path forward for projects already in the pipeline.

Strategic Resilience in a Changing Policy Climate

The retail industry’s current mantra involves a stoic persistence through regulatory shifts. By comparing the current necessity for endurance to the reliability of a "Soviet tractor," industry figures suggest that survival in the current market requires moving forward regardless of the terrain. This strategic resilience is particularly vital for mid-market developments in the Midwest, where projects like the Toledo shopping center serve as critical economic anchors for local communities. Developers are increasingly looking for ways to domesticate their supply chains to mitigate the direct impact of international trade disputes.