Brothers Louis & Milton Zorensky redefined the shopping experience in 1957 by developing the premise for the modern-day mall, anchoring regional shopping developments with multiple, major department stores, such as Famous Barr or Sears. They followed this concept with yet another innovation and became the first to build a split-level parking area that provided direct access to the first and second stories of the anchor stores. The Zorensky’s mall developments included Crestwood Plaza, which was the first regional shopping center with 2 department stores, Northwest Plaza, which was at one time the world’s largest shopping center in both square footage and retail space, and, finally, The Galleria that transformed from Westroads Mall to became the tourist attraction it is today.

Accepting the award for Louis & Milton Zorensky was Milton’s son, Mark Zorensky of Hycel Properties. Other members of the family attending the recognition ceremony included Jeanne, Milton ‘s widow; his daughter Deborah; Mark’s wife Karen; Mary, Louis’ widow; and his daughter Irene.

“On behalf of the Zorensky Family, I am pleased to accept the Eads Award,” Mark said. “This award is given to the individuals who have contributed to the betterment of St. Louis area real estate. Milton and Louis, who both passed away last year, would be honored to receive this award.

In 1957, Milton and Louis were among the founding members of the International Council of Shopping Centers or the ICSC. They entered the shopping business with the opening of Crestwood Plaza in 1956. To do so, required Milton and Louis to close the family business, Zorensky Brothers retail stores, founded by their father. Zorensky Bros sold men’s and women’s fine apparel. However, in honor of their parents, they named their new company Hycel, a combination of their parents’ names, Hyme and Celia.

Trained to be retailers, the Zorensky brothers molded their approach in developing and operating shopping centers, approaching developments from the retailer’s view. They knew retailer priorities and ensured their properties operated and merchandised as a merchant would run an individual store.

Today, the Zorensky family does not own any malls. Since selling the Saint Louis Galleria in 2003, Hycel has become a national retail real estate consultant, providing a full array of real estate services. Working with retailers has reinforced a third generation with an interest in the retailers’ perspective.

“I guess you could say the Zorensky family has come full circle, back to the retail priorities of my grandfather,” said Mark at the acceptance gala. “I am very proud of my heritage and the accomplishments of my father and uncle. It is a tremendous honor to receive this award on their behalf.

To berecognized by their peers is heartwarming. I know if they could be here today, they would be as proud as I am. I thank the Missouri Growth Association for honoring them with the Eads Award. Thank you.”