Chain Reaction: Business Boom in Tri-Cities

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Story Published: Dec 19, 2007 at 6:47 PM PST

By Molly Kelleher

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TRI-CITIES - Call it a "chain reaction." The chain stores and retail giants made the move to the Tri- Cities this year.

Is it a one time boom or does it mean more is on the way?

From what economic development directors in the Tri-Cities say the chain reaction isn't over.

City staffers will continue to shop different retailers and restaurants to bring new stuff to our growing market.

Kohls, Target, and Ann Taylor are some of the big brand names that moved into Tri-Cities in 2007.

I've lived here for eight years. I'm thrilled we're getting more stores this place booming wonderful.

"I like the shopping all the stuff by Columbia center mall. The more the merrier."

"In 2007 it was like whoa. In '08 the same but not as dramatic. It is hard to keep up that pace," said Ken Nelson Economic Development Director in Kennewick.

Nelson is the guy who shops around for new chains to come into town.
He calls on Chili's, Claim Jumper, Krispy Kreme, Trader Joe's and TGI Friday's to get them interested in our area.

Nelson wouldn't drop any names just yet, but says he's expecting big things and new names popping up near Southridge.

"Banks, retail, restaurants big box there's definitely space for all of that," said Nelson.

Out near the mall, two new restaurants will open their doors next year.
P.F. Changs and Famous Dave's and down the road the first in a string of Sonic Drive-ins is opening.

The other hotspot for 2008 will be at the Vintner Square in Richland. Panda Express just opened up, construction crews are getting the famous footwear ready.

And a dozen more retailers are on their way. On that wish list, you always hear people asking for a Nordstroms.

I talked to the cities about that one, they say we just don't have the numbers. A Nordtroms won't even look at a community less than a half million in size, so Yakima won't get theirs back, either.

The rule is "retail follows rooftops".

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