Retail and Commercial Development

The Tuscaloosa/West Alabama region is experiencing unprecedented economic development, driven primarily by growth at the region’s largest employer, the University of Alabama, and largest private employer, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, Inc. As the region has grown, a shortage of retail has developed and a significant number of shoppers are forced to shop outside the region. The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, in conjunction with local government and the area’s commercial real estate community, is actively recruiting new to the market retail to address this shortage. We want shoppers to have the opportunity to “shop local” for all their retail needs and are confident our economy has the strength to make this additional retail successful.

There are a number of retail developments under construction now. Major developments along the McFarland Boulevard retail corridor and downtown offer national and regional retailers attractive opportunities to enter the Tuscaloosa market. In addition, there are ample opportunities throughout Tuscaloosa and Northport to join smaller developments, both new and existing.

Members of the Chamber’s professional staff stand ready to assist you in bringing your business to the Tuscaloosa market. We can:

  • help you get oriented to the region and the local retail climate.
  • provide custom research and data to help you evaluate potential sites.
  • connect you with the local commercial real estate community.
  • help you interface with local government officials.
  • connect you with other area resources you may need.



The entire community – from the Chamber, to local government, to area brokers – is committed to making Tuscaloosa an easy place to not only start a business, but to be successful in that business. Give us a chance to help!

Contact:

Barkley Garrett
Vice President, Economic Development 
(205) 391-0329
barkley@tuscaloosachamber.com