Today we’d like to introduce you to Miguel Pilgram.
Miguel comes from a Navy family. His Dad a Vietnam vet, his sister served in Desert Storm, and both Miguel and his brother served in the Navy. The idea of discipline and service to something greater than yourself is in his DNA. Pilgram happily works twelve or more hours a day, serves his community and enjoys seeing his vision and brand come to life. He started his career in the military and served as a Petty Officer in the US Navy in Desert Storm. While serving, he learned the skill that would be the key to his success today, which, according to Pilgram, is to be “fully committed to what you are are doing, and don’t leave anything to chance.”
After the Navy, he put that knowledge to use working security in the casinos in the US and Asia. But he missed the travel the Navy afforded, so he jumped at the chance to work abroad for Star Cruises, a Chinese/Malaysian company. In 2002, Star Cruises purchased Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL). Pilgram was tapped to assist in the handover of the global security/surveillance program. He worked for NCL for a decade, becoming second in command of Global Security and Surveillance in 2007.
In 2010, Miguel formed The Pilgram Group (TPG). TPG started out as a company that focused on renovating commercial, residential and maritime real estate, mostly in the Fort Lauderdale area and tapping opportunities that help the community. Over the past several years, TPG has established a solid lifestyle brand that spans from eateries to executive suites.
Pilgram is placing his faith — and his money — in the Sistrunk and Downtown areas of Fort Lauderdale. The support and assistance of the Broward County Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has been instrumental in the acquisition of the Sistrunk property which is slated to open as a restaurant in Spring 2018. The recently opened, Pilgram Group Executive Suites are available to rent for 6 months or more, and all have access to high-end amenities. This location also serves as the company’s corporate headquarters.
Next will be the new home of New York Subs and Wings, a “fast casual” restaurant that will bring the same food from the previous Oakland Park restaurant. That building will also house a jazz lounge called NYSW Jazz Lounge which will feature both indoor and terrace seating, a bar menu, and a wide range of jazz styles.
Pilgram’s love for the arts, culture, and fashion has influenced his latest endeavor, a men’s clothing line set to launch in Spring 2018. Not surprisingly, Pilgram’s community support mirrors his personal interests he loves to become personally involved with the organizations and gladly give as much of his as he can. From his discipline in assembling real estate holdings to his creativity in renovating/repurposing them, to his passion for helping those who need a hand, he is a unique force in the South Florida business world.
Has it been a smooth road?
With any new venture, there are always twists and turns. For me, these aren’t considered obstacles – they are considered opportunities to learn and grow from these experiences. Now that I have even more means, I feel a responsibility to give back, not only by helping my family through meaningful jobs but also by creating a stronger, more vibrant community.” I still work 12 – 14 hours per day, but do it happily, because I am seeing my vision come to life.
“My family is a military family — my Dad was in Vietnam, my sister and I were in Desert Storm, my brother served in the Navy, and now my son is in the Navy — so the idea of discipline and service to something greater than yourself is in my DNA.” That’s why along with my business, I also spend considerable time on charitable initiatives.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Pilgram Group – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
The Pilgram Group is a family owned company consisting of several different entities. Each has a specific focus on a certain aspect of the real estate business to include property acquisition, valuation, renovation, management and term lending for investments.
In business since 2010, The Pilgram Group focuses on renovating commercial, residential and maritime real estate, mostly in the Fort Lauderdale area, and tapping opportunities that help the community grow and rebuild. In 2015, our company created the New York Subs and Wings brand and launched a food truck to support the brand. Currently, Pilgram is placing his faith — and his money — in the Sistrunk and downtown areas of Fort Lauderdale with The Pilgram Group Headquarters and Executive Suites, an upscale eatery and jazz lounge, a fast-casual eatery and a clothing and accessories line on the horizon.
I’m proud that I have the opportunity to help rebuild a historic black community through arts and culture. That is what sets our brand apart from others.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Specifically, the Sistrunk area in Fort Lauderdale reminds me of my hometown in Memphis. I see the potential, I see the vision and I see the future of what it can be. Fort Lauderdale is a unique area with tons of potential.
Contact Info:
- Address: 111 SW 6th Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- Website: https://www.pilgramgroup.com/
- Phone: 954.595.2200
- Email: info@pilgramgroup.com
- Instagram: @miguelpilgram
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pilgramgroup
Image Credit:
3E Connections, Inc.
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