A Growing Trade Region
No blues about the projected growth for Statesboro. During a recent consultation with Retail Strategies, it was revealed that the trade region of this city in Bulloch County is projected to grow by 7.6% over the next five years, indicating a sustainable demand for retail.
Currently, the community’s daytime population expands to over 118,300 daily from a strong commuter base. This commuter base coupled with the 18,500+ students enrolled at Georgia Southern University adds to the retail demand outside of its permanent residents.
Consultants from Retail Strategies provided insights to Statesboro, Bulloch County, and Georgia Power Economic Development about suitable opportunities for Statesboro and similar communities.
“The Regional Economic Development Managers work closely with local and regional development partners to prepare communities for today’s projects and opportunities in the future,” shared Elyse Davis, Statewide Development Manager. “We’re excited that Statesboro is the first community we can provide enhanced retail strategy support to through our new partnership with Retail Strategies.”
The strategy provided essential research that retailers look for when evaluating their next location. A review of the types of properties and sites that can accommodate new consumer-facing businesses was conducted, highlighting that walkability in several areas of Statesboro may provide an advantage. Finally, recommended brands and how to contact decision makers was a focal point of the strategy provided to Statesboro.
“Partnering with Georgia Power enables us to amplify our existing recruitment strategies,” Partnering on the ‘Retail Ready’ initiative enhances our visibility, providing another powerful tool to attract retailers. I’m confident this collaboration will soon bring more retail and dining options to our community,” said Alan Gross, Business Recruiter, Georgia Southern University.
Next up, the region’s economic development teams will be using this information to prepare marketing materials on available properties to support their outreach efforts.
Prepared with these new insights, we know that Statesboro has what it takes to go the extra blue mile to reach their retail goals.
Get Your Community Ready for Retail
The Regional Economic Development team is preparing another series of educational programs to support Georgia communities seeking to enhance their retail attraction.
Taking feedback from last year’s Retail Summits and our continued meetings with partners, we are planning an agenda to help communities understand the best practices for attracting niche to big box retailers.
Stay posted for dates and agendas of our fall sessions in Cartersville and Vidalia. Until then, sign-up for our registration wait-list. You will receive a registration email once dates are confirmed.
Turn redevelopment dreams into retail reality
May 1, 2025