Rockwall noted as fastest growing retail market in Texas

(ROCKWALL, December 3, 2012) The Rockwall Economic Development Corporation’s primary mission is to bring big industry to Rockwall and we’ve had a banner year doing so.  But Rockwall is also home to an impressive retail market.  So impressive in fact, that we are the fastest growing retail market in Texas, according to a recent study by Texas Retail Survey 2012.

The study looked at new retail market growth rates for the 50 largest county retail markets in Texas, ranked by annual retail sales growth from 2006-2011.  Rockwall was the fastest growing retail market during the five year period at 17.9%, which was more than double the next highest market.  Anyone who shops Rockwall can see the growth all around them…especially within the last few years.

“Rockwall has attracted big retail brand names to our city recently such as Costco, Tom Thumb, Home Goods, and Jo-Ann Fabrics, as well as a host of popular well-known restaurant chains like Mi Cocina, In-N-Out Burger, Logan’s Roadhouse, Olive Garden, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, Freebirds World Burrito, and Campisi’s at the Harbor.  Quality retail and restaurants the caliber and name recognition of these brands help us sell Rockwall to new businesses looking to relocate or expand in Rockwall,” said Sheri Franza, President and CEO of the Rockwall Economic Development Corporation.

“These new businesses will bring new jobs with new employees who want great places to eat and shop.  Rockwall has the big city brands, but we’ve been able to maintain our small town feel and lakeside recreational lifestyle, which is very appealing to businesses looking for a new home in the Metroplex,” she said.

Rockwall also has many smaller retailers that thrive in this community and contribute to the city’s economic growth.  The Rockwall downtown square is home to a variety of specialty shops and restaurants that are local favorites and draw visitors from near and far.

Rockwall is business friendly for entrepreneurs as evidenced by a multitude of independent retail shops throughout the city and at the Harbor.  Sandi Whitley, chairman of the Main Street Advisory Board, said, “The shops and restaurants on our historic square are owned by our neighbors, and frequented by friends and visitors alike.  They provide quaint and quirky shopping and dining experiences that rival any in the Metroplex.  It’s the perfect balance to our larger retailers and restaurants along I-30 and in the Harbor.”

There’s a reason we are the fastest growing retail market in Texas.  And there’s a reason we were recently named the best town for families, one of the best Dallas suburbs, and #1 for job growth.  It didn’t just happen. The people who live and work in Rockwall, really want to live and work here and want the area to grow but still maintain the lifestyle that sets us apart from the big city,” said Franza.

Submitted by Leslyn Blake, Marketing Manager, Rockwall Economic Development Corporation.

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  businesses, Campisis, downtown, economic development, Five Guys, Freebirds, Harbor, In-N-Out Burger, Mi Cocina, retail growth, Rockwall, stores