How We Got Here
The Traina Companies' reputation for ingenuity, professionalism, and passion for new challenges are traits the firm inherited from its founder, Joe Traina Sr.
Joe came of age during New York City’s real estate renaissance—a period that helped revitalize Manhattan and inspired a wave of future developers. Joe, who was raised by immigrant parents in Brooklyn, hoped to leave his mark on his beloved city, but he first had to climb the ranks and prove his worth. And he did just that—all the while planting the seeds of what would become The Traina Companies.
Joe’s ingenuity became apparent during his time as a floor manager for Arlen Realty Group, which owned EJ Korvettes, a major department store founded in 1948. One day, Joe single-handedly reorganized the store, shifting divisions and incorporating new ones. His bosses were shocked. They demanded to know who was responsible. Joe fessed up, but instead of being lectured he was told to repeat his changes at other locations across the nation. As a result, Joe revolutionized the retail industry.
Although this is but a brief snapshot of Joe’s career, this particular moment proved revelatory. Joe possessed a vision for how organizations should operate and the entrepreneurial spirit to get things done. He eventually landed high-profile positions at Modell’s Sporting Goods and Lazard Development Corporation before building his own firm.
Fast forward a few decades and The Traina Companies has become a respected boutique real estate and investment firm. Joe bought a failing travel company and revolutionized it, along with the rest of the burgeoning travel and technology industry. With investments in healthcare and construction outfits, Joe has passed on that enterprising spirit to the entire company.
As we enter a new decade, The Traina Companies is primed for future growth as it fully leverages technology to support both its travel brands, as well as to continually enhance its principled real estate investments and developments.
