Retail Recruitment
College Station has plenty of small-town charm, but the presence of a major university also provides an unmistakable international feel with many diverse restaurants, boutique shops, and retail options. From yoga studios and CrossFit gyms to assorted clothing stores, College Station has something for everyone. Abundant resources are available for starting a business, and we encourage you to take advantage of the tools, expertise and networks our region offers. The City of College Station has partnerships with local organizations and corporations that can help you succeed.
Retailers choose our community because of the abundance of young professionals in our workforce, as well as the broad range of opportunities created by the significant international presence. Additionally, masses of former Texas A&M students – known affectionately as “old Ags” – continue to retire in College Station to be near their beloved alma mater. New senior living communities allow for aging in place and, combined with our fantastic array of community attributes, provide an expanding opportunity for retailers to identify and attract specific niche markets.
Need help finding a site?
In addition to many talented real estate brokers in town, our economic development staff is happy to assist in helping find the right site for your future project.
For more information, contact Stacey Vasquez at svasquez@cstx.gov or 979.764.3545.
Ready to Develop?
The city offers those interested in developing in College Station the opportunity to attend a Pre-Application Conference (PAC). The purpose is to meet the city staff who will be involved throughout the development project, address any development-related questions, and provide an overview of the process. PACs are typically held on Wednesday afternoons and, while not required, can be a good way to receive feedback from staff on a preliminary site plan. With the goal of addressing any development-related question, PACs will typically have representatives from several city departments in attendance.
Click here to learn more about PACs.
The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) contains all development regulations in one document and includes regulations pertaining to zoning and use, platting, site plan development, and building permits. It also includes an overview of the development review bodies, review procedures, zoning districts, use regulations, development standards, and non-conformities.
Interested developers should also review the city's Site Design Standards, which are used to guide the design and construction of all commercial and multi-family private improvements in College Station.
Listing on Visit Website
We welcome the opportunity to introduce all of the great restaurants, retail shops and entertainment venues to visitors and residents alike and would love to include your College Station location on the list! If you would like to have your establishment added to the Visit College Station website, please register via the following link: New Establishment Form. This is an excellent opportunity to provide additional exposure for your location as both travelers and residents utilize this site to find local establishments to visit. Register today!