Conquest founder and CEO Michael Akkawi has drawn upon his extensive real estate development experience to lead the private equity real estate firm to success after success. Over the course of 21 years, Conquest has expanded its operations considerably. The firm has established a global presence, opening offices in London, with plans to expand into more countries imminently. In addition to his business pursuits, Michael Akkawi is also a dedicated philanthropist who is committed to achieving a positive, long-lasting societal impact.
In addition to international growth, Conquest continues to strive for excellence at a national level, delivering operational excellence in Australia thanks to its synergy of services in real estate, private equity and funds. In April 2025, ambitious new plans were announced for a major mixed-use project underpinned by supermarket chain Coles, capitalising on the brand’s significant pulling power.
Located in the southern suburbs of Sydney, the Coles-anchored development is currently underway, having secured State Significant Development approval. The $88.6 million Caringbah Pavilion project was developed by NSW Housing Corporation, which is directed by Michael Akkawi.
The project will see the creation of 188 apartments above a specialty retail podium at 41–51 President Avenue and 178–186 Willarong Road, Caringbah. Spanning a colossal 6,452 square metres in total in Caringbah’s E2 Commercial Centre zone, the site will be anchored by a brand new Coles supermarket.
One of Australia’s leading retailers, Coles boasts an extensive footprint of more than 1,800 retail outlets across the country, engaging with over 8,000 suppliers and employing over 115,000 team members. Coles welcomes millions of customers through its store network and digital platforms each week, having earned an enviable reputation as one of Australia’s most-trusted retailers. Operating with the ethos of helping Australians to live and eat better every day, the brand’s priority is to provide quality food, drink and home solutions that are sustainable, delicious and healthy for customers, delivering a consistent experience for all customers every day both in-store and online.
The Caringbah Pavilion development is an evolution of the original project planned at the site, which was acquired from Coles Group by Conquest in March 2023 in a deal worth a reported $44 million. The existing 2020 approval for the retail podium included a 4,073-square-metre Coles supermarket as well as several specialty shops. The development will now also comprise two residential towers above the retail podium.
In July 2023, Conquest lodged an amendment seeking a dozen new apartments, an additional level, a new communal roof terrace and more open space. Meanwhile, two basement levels will be able to provide parking spaces for 255 shoppers and 167 residents.
About Conquest
Conquest is an organisation that cultivates a professional environment built on excellence, respect and collaboration. Recognising that its people are the cornerstone of its success, Conquest empowers its team to achieve outstanding results. Led by Michael Akkawi, Conquest has leveraged its synergistic operations to accumulate assets exceeding $2 billion. Launched in Australia, the company has expanded considerably over the years, with operations in London today and plans to continue its global expansion.