EDINBURG, Texas - Edinburg Economic Development Corporation is partnering with Retail Strategies, a leading retail consulting firm, in order to boost its retail attraction efforts.
Chris Bontrager, vice president of the western region for Retail Strategies, said the collaboration underscores Edinburg's commitment to grow its retail sector and position itself as a prime destination for emerging brands expanding in Southern markets.
"The population in the Rio Grande Valley is projected to nearly double by the year 2045, from 1.3 million to 2.4 million on the U.S. side. This growth is driven by significant employment opportunities, making it a prime area for retail expansion,” Bontrager said.
“Edinburg recognizes the importance of elevating its presence in this dynamic landscape, and we believe Edinburg is in an ideal position to attract new retailers given this remarkable growth.”
Bontrager said the collaboration between Edinburg and Retail Strategies reflects a shared vision of proactive economic development, attracting new retailers, and contributing to Edinburg's economic growth.
By leveraging the expertise and retail network of Retail Strategies, Bontrager said, Edinburg intends to become a preferred destination for retailers seeking to expand into the Rio Grande Valley.
Veronica Gonzales, board president of Edinburg Economic Development Corporation said the Valley's “remarkable expansion” presents a unique opportunity for Edinburg.
“We intend to capitalize on this growth by launching aggressive recruitment efforts to attract retailers to our city. We aim to boost our local economy by generating sales tax revenue through these retailers, further enhancing our community's quality of life," Gonzales said.
According to Retail Strategies’ website, the company’s mission is to “provide the real estate expertise, tools, and human effort that position deserving towns as alluring locations for national businesses and destinations for tourism and quality-of-life amenities.
“We confidently pursue this mission by delivering unparalleled customer service as a unified team with unmatched real estate and community development expertise. Our activities pay a return in sales taxes, added jobs, and businesses that enhance and add to the unique qualities of your community.”
In a press release announcing the partnership, Retail Strategies said this of Edinburg:
“Edinburg, Texas, a thriving city in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, is home to approximately 104,294 residents and the county seat of Hidalgo County. Known for its robust growth and vibrant community, Edinburg offers a welcoming environment for businesses and residents alike. Edinburg is home to the University of Texas Rio Grande (URTGV), Bert Ogden Arena, H-E-B Park, and the fastest growing large city in the Rio Grande Valley. Fun fact: Edinburg is home to the Museum of South Texas History, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits that explore the rich history and culture of the region.”
As the Vice President of the Western Region, Chris Bontrager oversees operations for Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, California, Oregon, and Washington. He works with the team to bring retail development to client communities.
Prior to joining Retail Strategies, Bontrager was the Executive Director of the Marengo County Economic Development Authority where he led the county’s economic and community development efforts. He also previously served as the Vice President of C3 of Northwest Alabama EDA, a three-county economic development alliance that serves Fayette, Lamar, and Marion Counties. While at C3, Bontrager directed business retention and expansion as well as workforce development. Both Marengo County and the C3 Region experienced significant economic growth during Bontrager’s tenure.
Bontrager is currently the SEDC Southeast Regional Director, and has served on committees with SEDC, EDAA, as well as boards for the Alabama Regional Workforce Development Councils, and the Northwest Alabama Habitat for Humanity. He also serves on the junior board of Birmingham Landmarks Inc., a 501-c3 organization that owns and maintains Birmingham’s historic Alabama and Lyric theaters.
Bontrager is a veteran having served in the United States Army as an enlisted soldier and later a commissioned officer. Christopher is a graduate of Auburn University, where he earned a Bachelor’s in public administration with a minor in military science and a master’s in public administration with a minor in economic development.
He is a recipient of multiple military decorations, a graduate of the Intensive Economic Development Course at Auburn University, and the Honors Economic Development Course from the University of Alabama. Christopher has completed the Economic Development Institute coursework and is currently in pursuit of his CEcD certification as a professional economic developer.
Bontrager is a licensed real estate professional in the State of Alabama.
