4 Factors That Make South Texas the Best Place for Business

South Texas has boomed into an international hotspot of attracting tourists, new residents and big businesses. Over the last year, the region has become one of the most diverse and fastest-growing in the state and was named the fifth largest metropolitan statistical area in Texas, surpassing Beaumont and El Paso.

What has contributed to this growth?

Are you looking for the right commercial property to suit your business needs? Contact the Alamo EDC today.

A Strong Retail Sector

The proximity to the international border makes the Rio Grande Valley a shopping hub for tourists and residents alike. Examples include:

La Plaza Mall – The region’s largest contender in retail, La Plaza Mall is a 1.2 million sq. ft. shopping center. With a 245,000-sq. ft. expansion to be completed by 2018, it will bring along 50 new specialty stores, four junior anchors and an exciting dining plaza with six first-to-market restaurants that will feature a grand outdoor terrace.

The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley – This 120-acre commercial community has developed 450,000-sq. ft. of space since it opened in 2008. Recently, The Shoppes at RGV added Bob’s Steak & Chop House, the first nationally-recognized five-star restaurant in South Texas. The Shoppes are also working to expand to over 1 million sq. ft. in size.

RGV Premium Outlets – Conveniently located off of Expressway 83, the Rio Grande Premium Outlets is 604,000-sq. ft. of retail bliss. With 140 stores, including Armani Exchange, Burberry, Coach, Columbia Sportswear, Michael Kors and Nike, this location has been captivating residents and visitors with savings of 25% to 65% every day.

International Trade

A total of 13 ports of entry connect the RGV with major Mexican cities like Nuevo Progreso and Tamaulipas. These entryways allow businesses to broaden their target markets and clientele. Mexico‘s proximity to the Valley has helped many Fortune 500 companies find success. Over the past 25 years, American manufactured exports have quadrupled according to the U.S. Commerce Department. This constant trade has helped put the Valley ahead of other areas and cities in Texas.

Education

Educational opportunities have skyrocketed over the last few years. The RGV’s first school of medicine at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has allowed residents to pursue the medical field without having to travel to other universities. Additionally, the newly-announced Texas A&M academic building is scheduled to open in Fall 2017 in McAllen. Across South Texas, numerous trade schools and technical colleges allow students to further their education as well. With growing educational opportunities and increasing student enrollment levels, local businesses can find the best educated and skilled workers.

A Strong Workforce

South Texas has a strong and desirable working demographic. With a median age of 29 years and a robust population of young and college- or technical-skilled people, businesses can select the best and brightest for their success. Just a few of the top workforce industries in South Texas include:

  • Retail trade
  • Construction
  • Educational services
  • Accommodation and food services
  • Transportation and warehousing
  • Public administration
  • Health care and social assistance

Helping Start Your Business in South Texas

The Alamo EDC’s role is to encourage and support comprehensive approaches that emphasize local incentives, private sector opportunities and self-sufficiency. Regardless of your business’s scope or size, learn more about how we can help you find the best incentive for your commercial needs.

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