1. Mercedes-Benz of McKinney
What we reported
Mercedes-Benz of McKinney opened Aug. 1. The 75,000-square-foot, $32 million project initially brought 1,600 new vehicles and 125 new jobs to the area. The dealership features new vehicles in both indoor and outdoor showrooms as well as a service area.
The latest
Since opening, the dealership has been an active sponsor for multiple events in the city and has donated to several area nonprofits. In November, the dealership donated six cars and six drivers to help McKinney ISD deliver grants to the McKinney Education Foundation for Grant Delivery Day. In December, the dealership was a sponsor for the McKinney Rotary Club Christmas Parade of Lights.
What’s next
General Manager Mike Child said he plans to grow the number of employees by at least 20 within the next year and continue to be involved in the
community.
2080 N. Central Expressway, McKinney • 844-857-7991 • www.mercedesbenzofmckinney.com
2. Ettiene Market
What we reported
The store opened April 9 and offers a variety of kitchen items, including mugs, measuring cups, bowls and spoons, as well as kitchen towels and other linens. The market also offers several drink mixes, bar items, candles and other kitchen decor items.
The latest
Since opening in April, Ettiene Market has hosted 10 private workshops focused on lifestyle and cooking topics, along with a handful of corporate team-building workshops for local businesses in the Dallas/Fort-Worth area.
What’s next
In 2017, Ettiene Market will continue to host events, and store owners said they are excited about their new collaboration with a local restaurant to offer Underground Dinner Parties at which guests will dine on an Ettiene Market-themed menu.
115 W. Louisiana St., McKinney • 214-799-5195 • www.ettienemarket.com
3. North Texas Escape Rooms
What we reported
North Texas Escape Rooms opened Oct. 28. The interactive experience is built around a theme that tests a team’s wits against complex clues, puzzles and mysteries embedded within the rooms. Teams have 60 minutes to figure out the clues and solve the puzzles.
The latest
Since the business opened at the end of October, business owners said several customers have come to attempt an escape and have enjoyed the experience. Groups of friends, families, corporate groups, church groups and service groups have tried the interactive entertainment as well.
What’s next
In late 2017, business owners will update the rooms with new themes, puzzles and props.
1717 W. University Drive, Ste. 403, McKinney • 469-712-6837 • www.northtexasescaperooms.com
4. The Max Challenge
What we reported
The Max Challenge opened Aug. 29. The business is a fitness concept that incorporates exercise, nutrition and motivation to help individuals achieve the best results in 10 weeks. The fitness center combines fitness classes for all ability levels with nutrition guidance, support and motivation to help individuals meet their fitness goals.
The latest
On Dec. 3 the business hosted a charity sample class with the McKinney Rotary Clubs to raise money for the All Abilities Playground at Bonnie Wink Park and completed the last 10-challenge with stories from members. The next 10-challenge begins Jan. 9.
What’s next
The Max Challenge owners plan for a MAX Day of Giving on April 22 to give back in their community. Owners also said plans are in the works to expand in 2017 across Collin County.
4100 Eldorado Parkway, Ste. 200, McKinney • 469-573-4629 • www.themaxchallenge.com
5. 1911 academy and firearms
What we reported
1911 Academy of Firearms and Training opened April 28. The store offers Texas concealed handgun license classes as well as cleaning, repairing and restoring firearms.
The latest
Store owners said the hands-on training has been well-received. The store also expanded new firearms sales and emphasized sales of suppressors.
What’s next
In 2017 owners plan to expand the line of classes, including design, function and repair of Glocks, Springfields and Smith & Wesson Striker Fired pistols. A class on Colt 1911 pistols will also be added.
1971 University Drive, McKinney • 214-856-3976 • www.1911academy.com
