Smart Growth, Sustainable Future: Inside AB&B’s Development Strategy

January 25, 2026

At AB&B, sustainability is built into our growth strategy. “Responsible development is a core driver of our business model,” says Gerhard Renner, CFO of AB&B. “We budget for sustainability from day one because it makes sense ethically, operationally, and financially.”

Strategic Site Selection and Development

The journey toward sustainable development at AB&B begins with strategic site selection. Laura Saleh leads property identification efforts, working closely with the AB&B team to identify sites that align with long-term market demand, tenant needs, and AB&B’s development vision. Once a purchase agreement is secured, Dr. Jonathan Boes works alongside architects and engineers to review site plans and develop a building strategy that balances tenant experience with environmental responsibility.

“Selecting the right site is critical,” says Dr. Boes, co-founder of AB&B. “We focus on locations that meet current market demand but also hold the potential for sustainable growth over the long term.”

Creating a Comprehensive Construction Budget

Once a site is selected, our team develops a construction budget that accounts for every detail, from groundbreaking to final walkthrough. This includes projecting the return on investment for energy-efficient systems, renewable energy options, and sustainable materials, ensuring every decision has both financial and environmental benefits.

Expertise in Asset Management

Efficient asset management is essential for sustaining high-performing properties. “Managing assets efficiently allows us to reinvest in sustainability initiatives,” says Brett Earp, Asset Manager at AB&B. “That approach improves building performance, strengthens tenant relationships, and increases long-term value for our stakeholders.”

Construction and Development Knowledge

Our construction decisions are grounded in industry expertise and intentional design choices. “From insulation to HVAC, every choice is intentional,” notes Dr. Boes. “We’re building spaces that are functional, efficient, and aligned with the latest green construction standards.”

Effective Marketing and Pre-Leasing

Once the building plan and budget are set, Laura supports marketing and pre-leasing efforts to ensure remaining space is positioned for the right tenant mix. “Securing the right tenants early in the process supports both the project’s financial stability and its long-term success,” says Saleh, a commercial broker affiliated with MC&G Commercial and MetCap Commercial. “We focus on creating tenant mixes that complement each other and thrive in the communities we serve.”

A Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Sustainability at AB&B is a commitment embedded into every stage of development. Our “beehive” philosophy ensures that everyone involved, from internal teams to external partners, works collaboratively toward shared goals.

With a growing portfolio across North Carolina and strong strategic partnerships, AB&B is committed to advancing sustainable development practices that deliver lasting value. We remain focused on responsible growth, thoughtful site selection, and creating spaces where tenants and communities can thrive.