FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Courtney Hall
Retail Strategies
chall@retailstrategies.com
BIRMINGHAM, AL (April 22, 2025) – Downtown Strategies, a division of Retail Strategies specializing in downtown revitalization, announces a new partnership with the Town of Bedford, Virginia, made possible through USDA funding. The partnership includes the development of a five-year strategic plan for downtown revitalization and provides local business owners with one year of access to a comprehensive small business support platform.
“This partnership with Downtown Strategies represents a significant investment in Bedford’s future,” said Mary Zirkle, Director of Planning and Community Development. “The combination of strategic planning and direct support for our local businesses will help ensure Downtown Bedford remains a vibrant hub for commerce and community engagement.”
A Rural Business Development Grant fund is enabling Bedford to access Downtown Strategies’ expertise in downtown development while providing valuable resources to local entrepreneurs through the small business support platform.
“We have been in discussions with Bedford about a partnership for years we’re excited to bring these vital services to the community,” said Sarah Beth Stewart of Retail Strategies. “The collaboration will focus on keeping the history charm of downtown while working to create a thriving, business-friendly environment.”
The Downtown Strategies team has conducted a market visit, taking note of opportunities like the Town’s creative incentive programs, including incentivizing upper floor development. Additionally, local business owners will benefit from accessing tools and resources through the small business support platform for one year.
About Retail Strategies
Retail Strategies is the national expert in community development and retail economic development. Our 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.
