Expanding Across Borders: How Our Team Delivered a Market Entry in 10 Weeks
October 1, 2025
Expanding Across Borders: A Rapid Timeline, A Complex Challenge
A rapidly expanding logistics provider with operations in Chicago and Los Angeles was ready to take the next step in its expansion journey: entering Canada’s largest industrial market, Toronto. However, the timeline was aggressive, and Lee & Associates Toronto were under a strict two-month deadline to secure a functional warehouse between 40,000 – 50,000 sq. ft., plus office space. The referral came through our colleague from Lee & Associates Illinois, Chris Nelson, highlighting the strength of our North American network and the ability to seamlessly support clients expanding across markets.
The challenge was clear: move quickly without compromising on the operational requirements essential to their business.
A STRATEGIC APPROACH
We launched a comprehensive search across the GTA industrial market, focusing on facilities that could balance immediate availability with the client’s operational priorities. Recognizing the importance of speed, we streamlined tours and assessments to quickly eliminate properties requiring extensive retrofits. Negotiations with landlords were conducted in parallel with site reviews to confirm allowances and timelines for any required improvements, ensuring that occupancy deadlines would not be at risk.
This proactive process meant we could eliminate unsuitable options quickly and zero in on properties that balanced speed, function, and future scalability.
THE SOLUTION
- 2520 Royal Windsor Drive, Mississauga, ON
- Total: 42,710 SF
- Office: ±3,000 SF
- 36′ Clear Height
- 9 Truck Level Doors
- 1 Drive-In Door
Exterior photo provided by LoopNet
THE OUTCOME
Just 10 weeks after launching the search, our client secured a 42,710 SF facility at 2520 Royal Windsor Drive in Mississauga. The building offered immediate warehouse occupancy while the landlord completed the office buildout, giving the client a five-month fixturing period ahead of the official commencement date. For our client, this wasn’t just a new facility; it was a gateway into the Canadian market, completed on time and with room to grow.
This success highlights the value of Lee & Associates’ local expertise and cross-border network. We were able to guide our client from one market to another with speed and precision.
For clients like this, expanding is more than square footage. It is about confidence in the advisors guiding the process, from start to finish.
SUMMARY
Whether you’re entering a new market under a tight deadline or planning for long-term growth, Lee & Associates has the expertise and network to guide you every step of the way. With offices across North America and deep knowledge of local markets, we help companies secure the right space; quickly, strategically, and with confidence.
If your business is planning its next move, connect with our team today. Let’s make expanding seamless.