For over 30 years, Joan Primo was a consultant to the retail real estate industry. Her expertise garnered international demand by shopping center developers and owners, as well as major department stores and luxury retailers, advising on the most high-profile and significant retail developments around the world. As an influential member of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), Primo served for years on ICSC’s Michigan State Committee and the North American Research Task Force. In 2015, she received ICSC’s Gold Medallion Achievement Award, recognizing years of commitment and contribution to ICSC’s research programs.
In 2017, Joan faced her greatest challenge, receiving an ominous breast cancer diagnosis. Enduring numerous surgeries and several months of debilitating chemotherapy and recovery, Joan is healthy. She is a survivor!
Having achieved so much in her professional life, then fighting back a physically and emotionally devastating illness, Joan took the opportunity to redirect her priorities. As a result, in 2018, she closed her consulting practice in favor of other interests and new business opportunities. In addition to increasing her volunteerism activities, including breast cancer charities, Primo decided to participate in and contribute to the economic resurgence of her native city, acquiring a majority interest in a mid-rise historic building in downtown Detroit. She is presently evaluating redevelopment alternatives for the property.
Primo holds an MBA from Harvard University, and a BA in Economics and Mathematics from Wellesley College. In 1998, Primo was named one of Detroit’s “40 Under 40” by Crain’s Detroit Business. She and husband, David Yared, have one son, Benjamin, attending Amherst College.