1. Lonza Houston Inc.
Biotech company Lonza Houston Inc. broke ground on its new Pearland facility in March.[/caption]What we reported Lonza Houston Inc., an international viral and cell therapy manufacturer, broke ground on a 100,000-square-foot facility in March in west Pearland’s Lower Kirby Urban District. Lonza will join a number of medical field companies in the district, which is squared off by Beltway 8, Hwy. 288, Almeda School Road and Clear Creek.
The latest The Swiss firm announced in September it will add another 150,000 square feet to its facility, which is under construction. The additional space will bring its footprint to more than 250,000 square feet. The Pearland Economic Development Corporation partnered with Lonza, the city of Pearland and Greater Houston Partnership to bring the company to the district.
What’s next The new facility is expected to employ more than 100 people when it opens in 2017. Several hundred more scientists, engineers and biotech employees could be employed over the next 10 years.
2. Dick’s/Field & Stream/Golf Galaxy
Dick’s Sporting Goods, Field & Stream and Golf Galaxy opened near Baybrook Mall.[/caption]What we reported Dick’s Sporting Goods opened 10 stores in the Greater Houston area in October, including three stores in Friendswood. Among the 10 locations are two Field & Stream stores and two Golf Galaxy stores, which are specialty shops owned by Dick’s Sporting Goods that supply hunting and golf apparel and goods, respectively.
The latest A new Dick’s Sporting Goods location is set to open at Pearland Town Center in spring 2017. Dick’s will take up shop at the former Sports Authority storefront, which closed in May after the chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March.
3. Lary’s Florist & Designs
Stacy Parsons has continued Lary’s Florist & Designs’ 50-year tradition.[/caption]What we reported Lary’s Florist & Designs owner Stacy Parsons bought the floral shop in 2012. Parsons and her staff offer everything from wedding flowers to full-service wedding day planning.
What’s next Parsons purchased a plot of land next door to her current location with plans to expand her shop. The flower shop broke ground on the expansion plan in December and expects to complete the project this year.
4. Bakfish Brewing Co.
Co-owners Kris Szecsy (left) and Brian Allen opened Pearland’s first craft brewery in March.[/caption]What we reported Co-founders and co-owners Brian Allen and Kris Szecsy opened Pearland’s first craft brewery and brewpub, Bakfish Brewing Co., on March 14, adding to the Greater Houston area’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Bakfish also features a 2,000-square-foot taproom where patrons can enjoy selections brewed on-site.
The latest Bakfish began canning its popular beer “I Tell You Wit” in November and selling six packs in its on-site store. The brewery began selling its products in retail stores in December and its owners hope to expand its canning operation to include more beer options in 2017.
