HEDC hires retail recruiter

By Rosanne Fohn

Anvil Herald Reporter

The Hondo Economic Development Corporation hired a marketing and recruitment company to bring  new retailers to the city. 

At the June 18 meeting, the HEDC board voted unanimously to hire The Retail Coach with an annual contract of $32,500, payable in three payments, plus up to $1,500 in travel expenses. 

Company President Aaron Farmer said the company has recruited “more than 6 million square feet of new retail in the last five years” for its client cities. The businesses include fast-food and sit-down restaurants, sporting goods and grocery stores, and other chain retailers.

Through the partnership, The Retail Coach will develop a comprehensive Retail Market Analysis that provides an in-depth look at Hondo’s retail trade area, consumer demographics, psychographics, retail demand and shopping patterns. This data-driven approach will be used to identify retail sectors with the greatest opportunities for growth and to actively recruit retailers and restaurants that are the best fit for the community.

In addition to recruiting new businesses, the market analysis and retail data will serve as a valuable resource for Hondo’s existing businesses, entrepreneurs, developers and property owners.  The information can help local businesses better understand their customers, identify expansion opportunities, and make more informed business decisions.

“Our partnership with The Retail Coach represents an important investment in Hondo’s future,” said Sean Patty, HEDC Executive Director.. “By combining detailed market intelligence with proactive retail recruitment, we are positioning our community to attract quality businesses while also providing valuable insights that support the success of our existing business community.” 

Following completion of the market analysis, The Retail Coach will begin a targeted retail recruitment campaign that includes direct outreach to national, regional and Texas-based retailers and restaurants. The firm’s team will promote Hondo’s opportunities through industry conferences, one-on-one meetings with retailers, and ongoing marketing efforts designed to generate interest in the community.

“Hondo is well positioned for continued retail growth,” said Farmer. “The community benefits from a strategic location, a strong regional customer base and continued investment throughout the area. Our team looks forward to showcasing Hondo’s opportunities and connecting retailers with the market data they need to make informed location decisions.”

According to its news release, the Retail Coach has helped hundreds of communities across the country recruit new retail development through its combination of market research, strategic marketing and direct retailer outreach. By leveraging detailed consumer analytics and long-standing relationships within the retail industry, the firm assists communities in attracting businesses that match local demand and support long-term economic growth. Following completion of the market analysis, The Retail Coach will begin a targeted retail recruitment campaign that includes direct outreach to national, regional, and Texas-based retailers and restaurants. The firm’s team will promote Hondo’s opportunities through industry conferences, one-on-one meetings with retailers, and ongoing marketing efforts designed to generate interest in the community.

“Hondo is well positioned for continued retail growth,” said Aaron Farmer, President of The Retail Coach. “The community benefits from a strategic location, a strong regional customer base, and continued investment throughout the area. Our team looks forward to showcasing Hondo’s opportunities and connecting retailers with the market data they need to make informed location decisions.”

The Retail Coach has helped hundreds of communities across the country recruit new retail development through its combination of market research, strategic marketing, and direct retailer outreach. By leveraging detailed consumer analytics and long-standing relationships within the retail industry, the firm assists communities in attracting businesses that match local demand and support long-term economic growth. Board member Ashley Lowe asked, “What is the impact usually in the first year?” Farmer replied, “Six to eight months is the typical recruitment time frame and we usually have three to five interested prospects within the first year.”

HEDC only meets monthly, Farmer asked the board to consider hiring him in June to allow him to gather data before attending an annual retail meeting in San Antonio this fall where he could promote Hondo.

Roger Hernandez made the motion and Rachel Ramirez seconded it, with a unanimous board vote in favor of hiring the company.