GM bought the Detroit landmark, with 2.2 million sf of officespace, in 1996 to use as its world headquarters. The building isundergoing a $500-million redevelopment program, says Matt Cullen,general manager of the GM Enterprise Activities Group."Taubmanbrings an enormous wealth of retail experience to our team andknowledge of the marketplace," Cullen says. "Retail is important toour mix of services within the center for GM employees, centertenants and Detroit residents and visitors."The contract withTaubman is for five years, but could last longer, Cullen says.

There is about 230,000 sf of retail space in the center andMillender Center, an adjoining property. Taubman will beresponsible for developing merchandising plans, implementingretail-leasing activities and providing retail marketing.

The Renaissance Center has four 39-story office buildings andthe 73-story Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center Hotel. The retailportion in the lower levels have been configured to create clustersfor retail and service firms, and include a proposed five-storyatrium mall overlooking the Detroit River.The GM headquartersportion has offices for more than 5,500 GM employees and 2,500non-tenant GM employees.