Brooks’ Strategy of Attracting Popular Food Chains Pays Dividends in San Antonio, TX

Brooks’ Strategy of Attracting Popular Food Chains Pays Dividends

San Antonio, TX

The strategy of Brooks, a prominent retail and entertainment district in San Antonio, hosting a slew of fast-food chains and franchises has started to pay massive dividends for the Southeast Side. In recent months, a host of restaurant chains have set up shop in this bustling area, creating a vibrant food scene and driving economic growth.

All Listings Leased Out Within 60 Days

La Picosa, the new development at Brooks, saw a rapid influx of both regional and national restaurant chains upon its announcement. The entire property was fully leased out within two months, as businesses like Dave’s Hot Chicken, Bubba’s 33, and Dutch Bros. Coffee chose to expand their food empire to this region. Other popular franchises like Outback Steakhouse, Jersey Mike’s Subs, and Pluckers Wing Bar have also secured spots in La Picosa, becoming a part of the Southeast Side’s growing restaurant universe.

Increased Community Satisfaction

Connie Gonzalez, chief strategy officer at Brooks Development Authority, stated that the organization regularly circulates community surveys and hosts town halls to stay attuned to the needs of the community. “For years, we’ve been hearing that we needed more options to eat and drink and entertain the community,” she said.

Leo Gomez, president and CEO of the Brooks Development Authority, echoed her sentiment, adding that the South Side community believes in the growth potential of the area. The ever-full parking lots and the constant buzz of activity stand testament to the success of the development.

Fast-Paced Growth

Brooks’ strategy gambit and the subsequent brisk business growth in the area have not only fostered communal growth but has also caught the attention of investors. The real estate value of the area has surged from just under $37 million in 2004 to a whopping $976 million today. The Brooks Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, which includes the Brooks campus and the surrounding acreage, has seen the creation of almost 6,500 jobs since 2004.

Adam Love of Colegas Ventures, the entity that purchased the property from Brooks and developed it, further testified to the growth potential of the area. He stated that if La Picosa had more space to lease, he could have easily filled it with more sit-down or fast-casual restaurants.

Attention to Local Businesses

In response to the community’s concern about the lack of locally owned restaurant options, Gonzalez stated that Brooks is making conscious efforts to incorporate more local businesses into its development plan. Brooks’ future plans include creating a Town Center, a dense and walkable neighborhood that aims at creating an offer-rich environment for patrons, where they can eat, drink, and be entertained throughout the day.

Overall, the strategy of Brooks incorporating fast-food chains and franchises has proven successful, leading to an economic boom and creating a vibrant food scene in the Southeast Side.