Emerging Concepts Enters New Era with Strategic Partnership and Leadership Change

Chicago, Sept. 16, 2025 — Emerging Concepts, a well-known retail real estate brokerage platform and strategic partner, has revealed a significant new partnership that sets the stage for enhanced growth. Robert Johnson, who has been instrumental in the company's success over the past decade, is purchasing a 50% share from the founder, Mathew Focht. In this new role, he will oversee day-to-day operations as the Managing Partner.

This pivotal move marks a major milestone for Emerging Concepts, a company that has been at the forefront of the restaurant and entertainment sector in the U.S. and the U.K., partnering with exciting brands such as Puttshack, Museum of Ice Cream, and F1 Arcade. Johnson’s leadership is anticipated to further cement these relations and drive strategic growth.

Mathew Focht, who has led the company since its inception 15 years ago, expressed confidence in Johnson's ability to take the helm. “Robert has been pivotal to establishing our foundation over the last decade. His passion, leadership, and strategic insight position him perfectly to steer our next chapter,” Focht shared. He will remain actively involved in the company's long-term vision while focusing on capital allocation through a newly created initiative, The Emerging Fund.

The Emerging Fund is designed to invest in next-generation hospitality and experiential brands, thereby complementing the strategic objectives of Emerging Concepts. This collaboration underscores the company's commitment to aligning real estate strategies with early-stage growth equity, ensuring that their partners are well-equipped to thrive in a competitive landscape.

Robert Johnson brings over ten years of experience in national tenant representation and real estate investment, having successfully guided the expansion of some of the most renowned brands in the industry. His track record includes over $1 billion in successful transactions, demonstrating a profound understanding of delivering impactful tenant relationships across dynamic retail spaces.

As Emerging Concepts continues to grow in stature, it remains focused on serving as a trusted partner for premier restaurants and retail brands. Johnson underlined this vision, stating, “We see tremendous potential for growth, driven by increasing demand from leading operators seeking strategic advice on crucial expansion decisions, coupled with a partner dedicated to their long-term success.”

Emerging Concepts has built a national reputation as a go-to partner for restaurant brands by managing a comprehensive suite of services that include customer data analysis, site selection, transaction services, and investment alignment. The company employs a robust team of local market experts equipped with proprietary data tools and a keen investment perspective, making it well-suited to support both pioneering innovators and established players looking to scale their operations.

With Johnson at the helm as the new Managing Partner, Emerging Concepts aims to maintain its mission of partnering with exceptional restaurants and experience-driven brands while providing the strategic infrastructure necessary for their national success.

For more information, visit Emerging Concepts.

About Emerging Concepts

Emerging Concepts specializes in national real estate representation and expansion for various food, beverage, and entertainment brands. With a significant national presence and proprietary data platform, the company offers a full range of services, including strategic national expansion planning, customer data analysis, transaction facilitation, and investment partnerships. The company has collaboratively worked with brands like Puttshack, F1 Arcade, Museum of Ice Cream, and Sandbox VR, solidifying its status as a leader in the sector.