The new home furnishings retailer set to open in Statesboro will revitalize the former Kmart location.
A new national home furnishings retailer is set to transform the former Kmart location in Statesboro into a vibrant shopping destination. City officials regard this development as part of their economic growth strategy. The project is a collaboration initiated between the City of Statesboro and Georgia Southern University’s Business Innovation Group, aiming to boost the local economy and diversify shopping options. With substantial investments in commercial projects and a positive economic trajectory, the arrival of this retailer is expected to enhance the community and create job opportunities.
Statesboro is poised to welcome a new national home furnishings retailer to the city, transforming the former Kmart location on Northside Drive into a vibrant new shopping destination. While the identity of the retailer remains undisclosed, city officials view the development as a vital part of the ongoing economic growth strategy within Statesboro.
The anticipated retail project emerges from a partnership initiated in January 2023 between the City of Statesboro and a small business recruitment service spearheaded by Georgia Southern University’s Business Innovation Group. The collaboration aims to attract reputable businesses to the area, enhancing the local economy and diversifying shopping options available to residents.
Alan Gross, a small business recruiter intimately involved in the recruitment efforts, sees this new retailer as an embodiment of the growth and revitalization envisioned for the community. He highlights that the addition will breathe new life into the site of the former Kmart, which had been closed since 2018. The new operation is expected to create job opportunities as well as offer residents a wider range of home furnishing options.
Recent data underscores the positive economic trajectory of Statesboro, with over 190 new business licenses issued in 2024 alone, indicating robust commercial growth. In conjunction with these developments, over $128 million has been invested in commercial projects in Statesboro as of February 2024. This ongoing growth is apparent, with new projects commencing regularly, reflecting the city’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for businesses.
Mayor Jonathan McCollar expressed enthusiasm regarding the development, stating that the decision by the retailer to establish operations in Statesboro is a testament to the diligence and efforts of city officials and showcases the potential for further growth in the area.
Located within the Southern Square Shopping Center, which is owned by Hull Property Group—known for managing various other shopping centers in Statesboro—the new retailer is set to become a cornerstone of economic activity in the region. The timeline for the opening of the store has not been confirmed, but the retailer is expected to begin operations before the end of 2025.
Historically, the Kmart at this location opened its doors in 1976, serving as a familiar shopping venue within the community until its closure nearly four decades later in 2018. The introduction of the new retailer is anticipated to drive traffic to Statesboro, positioning the city as a regional shopping destination for residents from smaller surrounding towns.
As Statesboro continues to cultivate its business landscape, the arrival of this national home furnishings retailer marks a significant step forward in the city’s strategic plan for economic growth. The collaborative efforts between local government entities and business recruitment services highlight the city’s proactive approach to leveraging opportunities for development.
The community eagerly awaits the official announcement of the retailer’s identity and the subsequent opening, which promises to enhance the shopping experience in Statesboro and contribute positively to the overall economic environment.
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