Chris Najera

Chris Najera is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Check n’ Play, an experiential retail company redefining the modern family destination. He leads the company’s growth strategy, partnerships, capital formation, and multi-unit expansion as Check n’ Play scales its flagship concept into a national platform. Since launching the company’s first location at Brea Mall in Southern California, Chris has helped establish Check n’ Play as an emerging leader in experiential retail, attracting interest from leading commercial real estate owners and investors. In addition to his work at Check n’ Play, Chris is a Senior Specialist at ICF, where he advises utilities and technology companies on grid modernization and clean energy strategy, and he serves as a lecturer at California State University, Long Beach. He is passionate about the intersection of consumer behavior, placemaking, and the future of retail, with a focus on creating destinations that drive community, loyalty, and long-term economic value.