New Magnolia businesses drive growth to area

Photo by Shawn Arrajj

Magnolia is on its way to reaching its potential for economic growth, according to city officials, with Tractor Supply Company opening a new location within city limits. The move is expected to drive more businesses to the area.

Tractor Supply broke ground in May at Magnolia Town Center on what will be an 18,000-square-foot store with a combined building/site value of more than $1 million, said Tana Ross, the city's economic development coordinator. Ross said the addition of a large business is a catalyst for other businesses to move to the area, which encourages more growth.

"In May I met with five to seven businesses a week with inquiries about locating or relocating to the area," Ross said. "Economic development includes rooftops, retail, and businesses and the inquiries involved all of those areas."

There are already small indicators of businesses moving to the area with stores like Real Floor & Supply Company and Dillon's Gunsmoke, both of which recently opened on Buddy Riley Boulevard in Magnolia.

Although Tractor Supply has only begun the process of building a new store, Ross is hopeful it will be successful with consumers. The store will offer products that she believes are in demand among Magnolia residents.

"Of course tax revenue remains to be realized," Ross said. "It depends on how consumers take advantage of the new store. I am excited items like name brand work boots along with bigger ticket items like generators and welding supplies will now be available in Magnolia. Having the goods people want is the goal for any city."

Tractor Supply Company is expected to open sometime in 2014.