BIRMINGHAM, AL (October 6, 2026) – The City of Waynesboro has partnered with Retail Strategies, a national firm specializing in retail recruitment, downtown revitalization, and small business support, to attract new retailers and restaurants to the community.
Through the partnership, Retail Strategies will analyze Waynesboro’s market, identify retail and restaurant concepts that fit the community, and market the city and its available properties directly to brands, developers, and brokers. The work will be guided by the city’s goal of expanding dining options and bringing new businesses to its growing commercial corridors.
“Our residents have been clear that they want more places to eat and shop close to home,” said Greg Hitchin, Director of Economic Development and Tourism for the City of Waynesboro. “Waynesboro is growing, and we have the sites and the customer base to support new businesses. Partnering with Retail Strategies gives us a team that speaks the language of retailers and can put Waynesboro in front of the right decision makers.”
Early findings show Waynesboro draws more people during the day than live within city limits, a sign that the city serves as a shopping and employment destination for the surrounding region. The retail spending supported by Waynesboro’s trade area is also strong for a community of its size. The next phase of the work will use consumer traffic data and on-the-ground market visits to give retailers a clearer picture of who is already shopping in Waynesboro.
“Waynesboro is one of those markets that outperforms its population numbers,” said Sarah Beth Stewart, Vice President of Retail Strategies. “The city draws shoppers from beyond its borders, it has quality real estate ready for new users, and it has real momentum. That is exactly the story retailers and restaurant operators want to hear, and we are excited to be the ones telling it.”
Located in the Shenandoah Valley at the gateway to Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway, Waynesboro offers convenient access to Interstate 64 and a steady flow of residents, workers, and visitors.
Businesses and developers interested in opportunities in Waynesboro can learn more at www.WaynesboroBusiness.com.
About Retail Strategies
Retail Strategies is the national expert in retail recruitment and community development. Our mission is to provide the real estate expertise, tools, and human effort that position deserving communities as attractive locations for retailers, restaurants, and commercial investment. Acting as an extension of local staff, Retail Strategies combines market analysis, retail outreach, and industry relationships to help communities recruit businesses that strengthen local economies and improve quality of life. Retail Strategies has partnered with more than 1,000 communities across the United States to turn retail opportunities into real economic development outcomes.
