The Village of Gurnee’s restaurant and recruitment consultant has developed a prospect list of approximately 60 major restaurant and entertainment groups to show potential locations for expansion into the Village.
“Since July, Mr. (Mike) Mallon met with the owners of all of these initial target sites and developed a prospect list for each of those sites based upon the site attributes, the trade area, the demand nearby, competition, and we have started conversations with restaurant groups, retailers and mixed-use developers that honestly would not have happened had he not been involved,” Economic Development Director Ellen Dean told the Village Board during its first meeting of 2026.
According to a meeting video, the Village Board approved a six-month, non-consecutive contract extension with Mallon and Associates for restaurant and retail recruitment and development advisory services. Dean said that the extension runs from January 7 through September 6 at $7,000 a month for the six months worked. Mallon and Associates will work 20 hours per month for the Village. Dean mentioned that Mike Mallon, managing partner for the Wheaton, Illinois consultants, has reported that approximately 30 of the 60 prospects on his list have indicated they are open to Gurnee and will pursue and present sites this year.
According to the video, Mallon and Associates is providing “One Stop Shopping” assistance to the Village as an advisor and consultant, with monthly reporting. Stakeholders have been consulted to understand the history and nuances of key properties. In-depth field analysis has helped define the relevant geographical trade area. Demographic and spending patterns are also being analyzed. Recommendations for formats and concepts that would be relevant for specific properties are being developed.
Dean said in the video that Mallon has gained these groups’ trust in other projects. As he has the ability to speak their language, knows what they are looking for, and how a new market might be complementary to their existing locations, Mallon has opened doors for the Village with restaurant and entertainment groups. That led to staff recommending the contract extension.
