How is Methyl 2-(bromomethyl)-3-methoxybenzoate (CAS: 71887-28-0) typically synthesized?

Methyl 2-(bromomethyl)-3-methoxybenzoate can be synthesized through the bromination of 3-methoxybenzyl alcohol followed by esterification with methyl alcohol. The reaction typically involves using N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) as the brominating agent, with benzoyl peroxide as a co-initiator, and is carried out under UV light or heat. The yield of the reaction is generally high, and the product is purified by recrystallization.