Finding the Ideal Retail Site

When Carol and Jesse Holland set out to open Haraka Run, they knew their dream went beyond retail—it was about culture, community, and representation. Haraka, which means “speed” or “quick” in Swahili, embodies the spirit of movement and excellence. The couple envisioned a premium running store in Prince George’s County that would serve as both a retail destination and a community hub for runners of color. But with a grant deadline requiring them to open in 2025, time was their biggest adversary.

That’s when they turned to JCDAWSON Global Solutions. From the start, JCDAWSON led with precision—conducting market research, coordinating tours, analyzing financials, and negotiating terms with landlords. Every step was structured and transparent, allowing Carol and Jesse to focus on the vision rather than the process. The team’s consistent communication and organization stood out, especially compared to past experiences the Hollands had with less responsive brokers.

Within a few short months, Haraka Run found its perfect home: a 2,300-square-foot retail space at the Shoppes at Arts District in Hyattsville, Maryland. The location checked every box—size, visibility, accessibility, and community alignment. The negotiated terms fit their start-up budget and left room for growth.

“We appreciated the organized manner in which the tours were lined up. We also appreciated the frequent check-ins with the landlords and communication to us,” said the Hollands. This collaboration not only met Haraka Run’s goals but exceeded them—proving that with the right partners, even tight timelines can turn into success stories.