Dallas Becomes Hot Spot for Small Business Growth

If you plan to move to Texas this year, you’re not alone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, seven of the 15 fastest-growing markets from July 1, 2012 to July 1, 2013 were Texas cities. A major generator of that growth originates from the Dallas market, with cities in the metroplex like Frisco and McKinney seeing unprecedented growth. The Star Telegram reports that more than 108,000 people flocked to Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, a metropolis with surrounding and growing large suburbs within the last year. As it continues to flourish, many small businesses are focusing their growth efforts on Dallas and other major cities in Texas. Rainbow Station, a unique provider of early education and sick child care, has its eyes set on Dallas. “Dallas is a city that has developed a growing population of young professionals,” said Earl Johnson, Vice President of Real Estate and Sales for the brand. “We are confident that the city is a trigger point for growth, as we would like to add 10 schools in the next five years to the market.” Texas has already proved to be a viable and successful market for the brand, as it has two schools in San Antonio and one school in Austin. Dallas is also a large corporate development market for Colorado-based Tokyo Joe’s, a fresh Asian fast-casual concept. They plan to open their first restaurant in the market in Q4 of 2014 and will develop 25 locations over the next five years in DFW. In order to launch the brand in the market, they are moving a Director of Operations from Colorado to Texas. While many brands like Rainbow Station and Tokyo Joe’s are targeting it for growth, others like Safeguard and MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes* have made it a part of their DNA. “Dallas is a vibrant and growing market. From what I’ve seen, it’s hard to find a city where the culture thrives on such a collection of community, entrepreneurialism and corporate visibility. Small businesses and start-ups are here and growing,” said R. Scott Sutton, VP of Franchise Development for Safeguard Business Systems. “Big businesses are here and growing. And there’s a lifestyle in Dallas of which its residents are very proud. Safeguard is headquartered just a few minutes from downtown Dallas. To see the growth and investment being made in building a world-class community is truly an amazing thing.” Which Wich Superior Sandwiches is also headquartered in downtown Dallas. With 37 stores operating in the DFW market, Senior VP of Development Jeff Vickers adds that many brands choose to launch their first restaurant in the city. “Many restaurants fail after their first year, so for a brand to not only thrive, but make Dallas their home base and grow to more than 300 units, is a testament to the strength of the concept. We love the city of Dallas and will continue to view it as our partner in developing our future as a brand," said Vickers