The former Thorntons executive has decades of experience in real estate development, design, and branding.

Eric Zoph, a former Thorntons Inc. construction executive, has launched BMZ Development Group, LLC, a new business venture anticipating the growing need to assist customers in areas with “Full Cycle” retail design and development with particular attention to the convenience store industry.

With more than 25 years of experience in site selection, site and store design, as well as permitting, zoning and construction, Zoph and his new firm offer a vast amount of industry experience and best practices for those seeking to improve their retail store design and development process.

“I think it’s both an outstanding opportunity and a privilege to be able to use my 25-plus years of experience to help other retailers in the convenience and fuel retail business improve their brands,” Zoph said.

How can retailers build their brick-and-mortar stores in a manner that best personifies a brand that customers will recognize and appreciate? Zoph contends the answer starts with developing brand standards and laser focus on design.

Given the complexity of today’s projects and the growing number of stakeholders, BMZ Development Group focuses on adaptive relationship-based leadership with clients while adding iterative processes at the same time.

“Eric Zoph, the Founder of BMZ, and his team are dedicated talented professionals who have a real passion for design and development,” said Matt Thornton, CEO of Louisville, Ky.-based Thorntons Inc. “They understand the dynamics and complexities of retail real estate development from start to finish. I would highly recommend Eric for organizations interested in growing and/or branding their retail portfolios.”

The “Iron Triangle” of Quality, Cost and Time is BMZ Development Group’s driving principle. Zoph believes there are many opportunities to help retail convenience improve in these areas.

For more on BMZ Development Group, visit http://bmzdevelopmentgroup.com.