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Will Donaldson
CEO/Founder at Politan Group
Will Donaldson is the CEO and Founder of Politan Row, a company specializing in the development and operation of food halls. He launched Politan Row in 2014, starting with its first location in New Orleans. Since then, he has expanded the brand to several major cities across the United States, including Chicago, Miami, Houston, and Atlanta.126
Background and Experience:: Before founding Politan Row, Donaldson was involved in various roles within the coworking and environmental sectors. He co-founded Launch Pad, a coworking space, and served as Vice President at Resource Environmental Solutions LLC from 2009 to 2014.56 His diverse background has contributed to his success in creating vibrant food hall environments that support chef entrepreneurs and foster culinary innovation.
Politan Row's Concept:: Politan Row focuses on providing a platform for new restaurateurs by creating spaces where they can test their concepts in a shared environment. Donaldson emphasizes the importance of guest feedback and continuous improvement in enhancing the dining experience.23 Under his leadership, Politan Row has become known for its unique designs and community-oriented approach, often integrating local flavors and concepts into each location.
Recent Developments:: Recently, Donaldson announced plans for new locations, including a project at The Forum in Dunwoody, Georgia. This expansion reflects his commitment to adapting existing spaces to create inviting food hall experiences.34 He is also dedicated to sharing knowledge about the food hall industry, planning to publish insights on best practices and operational strategies through various articles.4
Donaldson's vision for Politan Row continues to evolve as he seeks to enhance guest experiences while supporting culinary entrepreneurs across the country.