Friedland of NAI Friedland reveals merger with Benson Commercial Realty; Benson named president

Robert Friedland, founder and chairman of NAI Friedland, revealed the merger of NAI Friedland, a dominant force in the sale, leasing and development of commercial property in the New York metropolitan area, with Benson Commercial Realty of Tarrytown, NY, and Greenwich, CT. Scott Benson will take the helm of the merged company, which will keep the name NAI Friedland. Benson will assume responsibility for brokerage operations, business development, and expansion into new markets. The merger combines two established, privately held commercial real estate firms that have been in business for a combined 65-plus years. Benson's extensive knowledge of the Westchester, Fairfield, and Rockland market complements NAI Friedland's long-standing presence in Southern Westchester and the Bronx. The combined firm handles over 180 exclusive commercial properties. "I've known Scott professionally for 27 years and hold him in the highest regard," said Friedland. "At this stage of my company's lifecycle, it is time for a dynamic real estate professional such as Scott to step in as the visionary and transform our company." Benson, founder and CEO of Benson Commercial Realty, Inc., launched his firm in the late 1980s by securing exclusive properties near train stations throughout Westchester and Connecticut. By 2010, his firm had completed in excess of 2,400 transactions with an aggregate value of close to $1 billion. He is known for his unparalleled experience in landlord and tenant representation, new construction, commercial and industrial leasing and subleasing, investment and user sales, consulting and advisory services. Benson's list of prestigious clients includes many of the premier companies, owners, and investors domestically and worldwide. Benson, a noted writer and lecturer, has been affiliated with numerous business and industry groups, including the Arete Group, NACORE, BOMA, and Westchester County Association, and numerous others. He is highly active in UJA, March of Dimes, and other community philanthropic organizations and recently received the Family Leadership Award for the advancement of Jewish continuity by Chabad Lubavitch. Benson has received over a dozen Robert Martin and Mack Cali awards, was involved in the initial fundraising for the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, and actively supports Make A Wish, My Sister's Place, UJA, the Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, the American Cancer Society, and others throughout the metropolitan area. "NAI Friedland has some of the finest brokers in each of its five divisions - office, retail, industrial, investment/user sales, and consulting - and I look forward to adding new talent that will make our team of brokers an even more dominant force in the industry as we establish a larger presence in launching our new White Plains and Greenwich offices and expanding our New York City office," said Benson. "It will be an honor to uphold and build upon the tradition and reputation of NAI Friedland."