Carroll County Leaders Complete Retail Development Training to Enhance Economic Growth

BIRMINGHAM, AL (August 15, 2025) – Community leaders from Carroll County, Kentucky recently participated in Retail Academy, a comprehensive retail education program developed by Retail Strategies. The in-market training, held earlier this summer, provided county officials with essential tools and knowledge to attract new retail opportunities to the region.

Carroll County’s strategic location offers significant advantages for retail development, with the county seat of Carrollton positioned halfway between the major metropolitan markets of Louisville and Cincinnati, providing access to a substantial regional consumer base.

“Retail development represents a unique component of economic development that requires specialized knowledge and approach,” said Bill Lewis, Director of the Carroll County Development Corporation. “Being trained by the experts in retail was paramount in getting Carroll County off to a strong start. The comprehensive training we received has equipped our team with the sophisticated tools and market insights necessary to effectively compete for quality retail investment in our community.”

During the Retail Academy program, Carroll County officials received:

• Comprehensive consumer and market data analysis
• Training on identifying ideal real estate for retail development within Carroll County
• An overview of various databases for finding retail real estate and industry professionals
• Practical training on making proactive outreach to expanding businesses, brokers, and developers
• Strategic guidance on leveraging Carroll County’s unique geographic advantages

“Understanding the nuances of retail site selection and having access to crucial market data is vital for any community’s growth,” said Madeline Farr, director of Retail Academy. “Our goal is to empower Carroll County’s leaders with the knowledge, data, and strategy needed to drive economic development. The county’s strategic location between Louisville and Cincinnati, combined with their commitment to professional development, positions them well to attract quality retail investment.”

The training has positioned Carroll County Development Corporation to more effectively market the region’s retail opportunities and engage with potential retailers, brokers, and developers using data-driven strategies and professional best practices.

About Retail Academy

Retail Academy is a program developed by the leading national retail advisory firm, Retail Strategies. The program assists communities in strengthening their retail landscape. Communities will be trained and equipped with the tools and education necessary to attract new retailers to their markets, while providing support to their existing local businesses.