Multiple chain stores set up shop in Cache Valley
The growth Logan has experienced in the last decade has changed the face of the valley – particularly along Highway 91, where many new businesses are located. More are on the way, and existing businesses have expanded.
Nevin Limburg, director of economic development for the city of Logan, said most of the businesses coming into the valley right now are retail and commercial stores. Sam’s Club opened Oct. 10 and is getting really good business, he said. A 30,000-square-foot TJ Maxx’s is coming to Logan soon. Owners of Stork Landing, a baby store, hope to open by Christmas. A Stevens Henager College is also slated to open near Macey’s. Borders, a book and café shop, opened this month next to the Old Navy clothing store.
“We’ve gotten most of the big boxes [chains] we were targeting to come to Logan right now,” Limburg said.
The existing store Axtell Taylor GM expanded. It moved from near Chili’s Restaurant to north Main Street. General Growth Properties Inc. just bought the Cache Valley Mall, and is planning on expanding it. The company will announce details of the plans this month.
“They have a lot more capital and pull with the major retailers to improve the mall. It will be good for students at USU,” Limburg said.
Anderson Seed and Garden downtown is planning a $250,000 expansion project, he said.
“They’re going to do a lot of green-housing and build canopies to make the store good for all-weather shopping,” Limburg said.
Café Ibis, already well known as one of Logan’s most popular coffeehouses, has opened a new store on 1000 West with a deli. The business has expanded, not only with on-site sales but also with a line of manufactured food products sold throughout the country. Firehouse Pizza is also expanding; Limburg said the restaurant is very popular with students. Hyclone Laboratories, Inc. is expanding, as well as Gossner’s Cheese Factory.
Tiffani Rudd, membership director for the Cache Chamber of Commerce, said businesses coming into Logan provide many job opportunities and students help businesses stay profitable.
“I’ve talked to a lot of business owners that have said their revenues depend completely on students. During the summer when students are gone they barely hang on,” Rudd said.