CIBS-LI presents Shwom of Schacker Real Estate with “Most Ingenious Deal of the Year” award

Melville, NY The Commercial Industrial Brokers Society of Long Island (CIBS-LI) presented the 2024 “Most Ingenious Deal of the Year” award to Philip Shwom, SIOR, CCIM, president of Schacker Real Estate Corp., for his leadership in securing Antech Diagnostics’ lease of 87,864 s/f at 195 N. Broadway in Hicksville.

The winning transaction involved Antech Diagnostics, North America’s largest veterinary reference lab, and Steel Equities, the property owner of the former Sears building at the Broadway Mall. With vision and collaboration, Shwom led a complex two-year negotiation that resulted in a transformative lease agreement — converting a long-vacant, 1960s-era department store into a laboratory facility tailored to Antech’s operational needs.

“This was not just about square footage — it was about reimagining what commercial space on Long Island can become,” said Ralph Benzakein, SIOR, LEED AP, president of CIBS and principal at Cresa Long Island. 

“Phil’s ingenuity and persistence helped turn a challenged retail site into a thriving life sciences asset. This deal reflects the very best of what our industry stands for—vision, adaptability, and impact.”

Shwom, who partnered with CBRE’s Chicago team to represent Antech, worked closely with both the tenant and landlord over an extended timeline to creatively overcome logistical, financial, and design challenges. His ability to visualize adaptive reuse of the space—while aligning the long-term needs of both parties — was central to the award’s selection.

“This was one of the most complicated and rewarding transactions of my career,” said Philip Shwom. “We had to think outside the box every step of the way — from design and functionality to timing and financial structure. I’m grateful to Antech and to Steel Equities for their willingness to work collaboratively to bring a unique solution to life.”

The annual “Most Ingenious Deal of the Year” award celebrates creativity and innovation in commercial real estate transactions that demonstrate exceptional problem-solving, value creation, and long-term economic benefit to the region.

The award was announced at the annual CIBS/ABLI awards event, recognizing excellence in deal-making and innovation in the commercial real estate industry.