20 Jan From Global Negotiations to Local Growth

Mark Johns of ELIFIN® successfully represented both the landlord and tenant in the lease of the 144,000-square-foot industrial property located at 302 Klaby Meaux Rd in Kaplan, LA.

Challenge

After being presented with an opportunity to bring a major new tenant to town for the City of Kaplan, Mark encountered a unique set of hurdles to lease up this large warehouse and distribution space. Some of these challenges included a significant language barrier and time zone difference with the prospective tenant being based in China. While eager to invest locally, English was not the client’s first language. Most negotiations occurred late at night due to the time difference, requiring real flexibility. Key deal points needed to be clearly understood by all parties, and any miscommunication could have delayed or jeopardized the transaction altogether.

Strategy

To overcome these challenges, Mark implemented a structured and intentional communication approach focused on clarity and consistency. After every conversation, he sent a detailed follow-up email summarizing key discussion points, agreed-upon terms, and next steps to ensure nothing was lost in translation.

He also remained flexible with scheduling, routinely adjusting my availability to align with the tenant’s business hours.This commitment allowed negotiations to progress efficiently while building trust and maintaining deal momentum.

Result

As a result of this approach, Mark successfully executed a 10-year lease with an option to purchase. The transaction brought a long-term, revenue-generating tenant to the market while creating dozens of jobs and driving meaningful economic growth for the local community. Soja Foods, LLC plans to invest upwards of $9,000,000 to renovate and repurpose the facility as a soybean processing plant, while also utilizing chemical-free and sustainable production and extraction practices.

Client Testimonial

Elifin was an absolute pleasure to work with. Mark Johns went above and beyond any expectations we had to find a suitable tenant for our facility. We will certainly use Elifin Realty again should the need arise. 

Leading Agent

Mark Johns

mjohns@elifinrealty.com
Direct: 501-513-7394
Office: 800-895-9329