Retail developer Caruso Affiliated is opening a New York operation to expand its relationships with retailers and fashion houses, the company said. Caruso, known for creating open-air, town center concepts around shopping centers, is currently developing Americana at Brand in Glendale, a mixed use concept that will include parks, condominiums, shopping and restaurant and entertainment venues. The company typically recruits retailers that are not generally seen in more traditional malls, but the new office is expected to enhance that strategy. “The move establishes a pivotal location for the company in the hub of the U.S. fashion industry with easy access to Europe, headquarters for some of today’s hottest retail concepts,” the company said in a press release announcing the July opening of the New York office. In addition to bringing the company closer to the core of the fashion industry, Caruso also expects to gain access to different real estate opportunities. “As our company continues to grow in new markets and bring our expertise to different types of development, our presence in New York will allow us to explore real estate opportunities on the East Coast,” said Todd M. Russell, the senior vice president of retail leasing and marketing who was named to head the new venture.