Why This Midwest Firm is Eyeing SoCal

IRVINE, CA—A Southwest division is the clear next step for PREMIER Design + Build Group, an Itasca, IL-based firm that has created Southeast and Northeast divisions over the years and is now looking west, principal Steven Gabbert tells GlobeSt.com. We caught up with Gabbert, formerly director of sustainability for Snyder Langston who recently joined the firm to lead its expansion into the Southwest, for an exclusive interview about changes in the firm and why now is the right time for these changes.

GlobeSt.com: What is unique about PREMIER?

Gabbert: PREMIER is a progressive design + build firm whose business philosophy and operation center around problem solving, relationship building, collaboration and a schedule for the delivery of service. We handle each project from a 360-degree perspective, combining the expertise of all team members to develop and execute strategies. Aligned principles, an incredibly strong leadership and team and great clients are all what I find most unique and are what drew me to the firm.

GlobeSt.com: What are your immediate plans for the firm's growth into California and the Southwestern US?

Gabbert: PREMIER is focused on making a swift impact in the Southern California region with several contracts currently pending in the industrial segment. We specialize in the delivery of state-of-the-art adaptable warehouse and distribution facilities with class-A amenities, which are in high demand in the SoCal marketplace by today's high-quality end users.

GlobeSt.com: Why is now the right time to push into this area?

Gabbert: With more than a decade of proven success in the Midwest, PREMIER expanded its operations and opened up a Southeast division several years ago, which has been a remarkable venture for the firm and its clients. Subsequently, a Northeast division has been created, and it, too, is thriving. With the SoCal market being one of the largest and hottest markets in the country, a Southwest division was a clear next step for the firm. Our ability to create value for our clients has truly been the catalyst that has allowed us to expand to a national level.

GlobeSt.com: What else should our readers know about your firm?

Gabbert: As a testament to our success, PREMIER Design + Build Group was awarded the prestigious NAIOP Chicago 2014 Contractor of the Year award. We are one of the fastest-growing design/build firms in the country and will continue to rise as we focus on remaining unified and adaptable to the evolving needs of our clients.