Flake & Co. and ARK Commercial to Merge, Creating a Real Estate Powerhouse
Two prominent commercial real estate firms in Little Rock, Flake & Co. and ARK Commercial & Investment Real Estate, have announced their merger, which will take effect on November 1st. The newly combined company, operating under the name Flake & Co., is set to become a major player in the local real estate market.
Flake & Co., founded by Jessica Flake Dearnley and daughter of renowned commercial real estate investor John Flake, is a well-established firm managing over 1 million square feet of commercial space. The company’s portfolio already boasts impressive properties, including Pavilion in the Park on Cantrel Road. This retail center, damaged during a tornado on March 31st, is currently undergoing restoration.
ARK Commercial, led by owner Jeff Yates, brings over three decades of experience in assisting clients with their commercial real estate needs. Yates has established a solid reputation, with numerous long-standing national tenant representation assignments under his belt.
The merger of Flake & Co. and ARK Commercial consolidates the strengths and expertise of both companies. With a combined portfolio that includes properties like the Doctors Building, Midtown Medical Center, OrthoArkansas, and more, the new entity will significantly enhance its national footprint. The companies’ expanded resources and knowledge in development, investment, and leasing will open the doors to more projects and investments, particularly in the healthcare sector.
John Flake, a veteran in the commercial real estate industry and a leading developer in Central Arkansas for nearly 50 years, expressed his excitement about the merger. He emphasized the longstanding relationship he has had with Yates for the past three decades and praised Yates as a leader in Arkansas’ commercial real estate sector. Flake believes that their collaboration will yield fruitful results.
Flake has contributed significantly to Arkansas’ business landscape, spearheading the development of various corporate office complexes, including Simmons Tower, Fairfield Communities, Beverly Enterprises, and Acxiom Plaza. His impressive client portfolio includes esteemed names such as Baptist Health, CenterPoint Energy, Walmart Inc., and Dillard’s.
The merger marks a significant milestone for the local real estate market, uniting two of the region’s major players. With Jessica Flake Dearnley’s vision and Jeff Yates’ expertise, Flake & Co. is poised to make a lasting impact in the industry. The merger will undoubtedly benefit the company’s investors and tenants, offering a broader range of services and an expanded network of national relationships.
As Flake & Co. prepares to embark on this new chapter as a merged entity, the Little Rock community is eager to witness the combined company’s future ventures, developments, and contributions to the growth and success of the region’s real estate market.