City of Victoria Economic Development Director Danielle Williams recently appeared on Town Talk, the City of Victoria podcast produced by Communications & Public Affairs, to discuss recent retail gains as well as factors that could contribute to future growth.
Williams highlighted developments in Victoria’s food and restaurant scene, including the recently opened HTeaO and Toasted Yolk, as well as forthcoming projects, such as the renovation of Long John Silver’s.
The City of Victoria partners with The Retail Coach to help recruit restaurants and retailers to Victoria. However, for businesses that operate on a franchise model, a lack of willing franchisees can be an obstacle.
“We have weekly or monthly updates [with The Retail Coach], and they say, ‘Hey, this franchise wants to move, but we don’t have a franchisee,’” Williams said. “We kind of have an ongoing list.”
Residents who are interested in becoming franchisees can contact Williams’ office at 361-485-3120 or dwilliams@victoriatx.gov to be connected with businesses that are seeking franchisees.
The City is exploring the possibility of working with The Retail Coach to provide additional guidance, such as workshops, to residents who are interested in learning more about becoming franchisees.
Williams emphasized that growth and community development are crucial to attracting new businesses.
“When you say you want [a particular] business here because this other town has it, look at that town and take into consideration what they have…when it comes to demographics and population, jobs, housing market,” Williams said. “All of those things go into consideration.”
To learn more, watch or listen to the latest episode of Town Talk on YouTube at Victoria Texas Videos or on Spotify at Town Talk (City of Victoria).