UAE’s Mubarak and Brothers Property and Financial Investments (MBI) has named Colliers International as its retail consultant for the Dh1 billion ($272 million) Deerfields Town Square mixed-use project in Abu Dhabi.

Colliers International will oversee the progress of the development that will reflect classic Victorian architecture, and feature retail, commercial, residential and hospitality components in a total build up area of 3.2m sqft.

At the initial stage, Colliers International will be involved in assessing Deerfield Town Square’s design layout and making recommendation on specifications, positioning, development strategy for the retail areas and ensure optimal efficiency and sustainability

It will advise Deerfields of the right tenant mix, zoning (such as women’s fashion, men’s fashion, children’s apparel, accessories, entertainment and food court) and assessing the most appropriate placement of specific brands to enhance key attractions to the mall.

Colliers International will also negotiate contractual terms with major anchor shops to provide Deerfields with the best balance of retailers.

Additionally, the company will be involved in proposing long-term leasing and management issues as well as property performance advice.

"Colliers International’s expertise will set the Deerfields Town Square development on the right track and help us manage the incredible response we have received following the project’s launch and its showcasing during Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2008,” Deerfields general manager Banu Tas said.

“We are proud to partner with a prestigious firm such as MBI, which will add further value to our project portfolio. Deerfields will enter the market at a strategic time when Abu Dhabi is expecting an increase in leasable area by 2010,” Colliers International regional director Stuart Gissing said.

Featuring retail and entertainment components, Deerfields will primarily comprise more than 200 retailers. Nestled in Al Bahia area amidst new developments in Abu Dhabi such as Al Raha Beach, Yas Island, and Khalifa A and B Cities, the development will also comprise a hotel.

The Deerfields Town Square project is scheduled for completion in 2010. – Trade Arabia News Service