Houston – Feb. 2, 2021 – As part of its strategy to expand its market-leading retail group, the Houston office of CBRE has hired Thomas Nguyen as an associate on the tenant representation team helping brands grow by using a data-driven, tech-focused approach. “Thomas has an impressive track record in the hospitality industry, as a co-founder of one of Houston’s most high-profile restaurants,” said Mark Taylor, CBRE Senior Managing Director, Houston. “His combination of entrepreneurial experience and relationships with the local business community will enable us to continue exceeding the expectations of our clients. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team.” Nguyen is a co-founder of the award-winning Peli Peli South African Kitchen. He joins CBRE after over a decade in the restaurant business helping to build the South African dining concept into one of the best-reviewed culinary brands shaping the Houston food scene. Peli Peli currently has locations in the Galleria and the Woodlands and has been featured on the Food Network and CNBC’s Restaurant Startup. “I look forward to leveraging CBRE’s technology resources and sharing the lessons I learned growing my business to help other business owners,” said Nguyen. “As someone who’s navigated the same challenges, I understand their needs and the importance of a smart real-estate strategy for long-term success in the retail and dining space.” Active in the Houston community, Nguyen has earned recognition as a 2015 Houston Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, 2016 Houston Asian Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year, and 2017 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist. He earned a B.A. in Journalism from The University of Texas at Austin and a J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law.