BIRMINGHAM, AL (May 13, 2026) – The Franklin County Industrial Building Authority has selected Retail Strategies, a national retail recruitment and economic development consulting firm, to support retail recruitment and commercial development efforts across Franklin County, Georgia. The partnership will focus on expanding the county’s retail base, identifying prime sites and locations for development, and opening direct conversations with national retailers and restaurant brands.
Strategically positioned along I-85 as Georgia’s gateway from South Carolina, Franklin County sits at a compelling midpoint between the Commerce, Georgia outlet corridor and Anderson, South Carolina – giving the county a natural advantage in attracting retailers seeking access to a strong regional trade area. Lavonia serves as the primary retail corridor for the county, and Retail Strategies will work alongside leadership in each of Franklin County’s communities to identify opportunities tailored to local market conditions.
“Our focus is on community growth – retail, industrial, and commercial development that makes a real difference for the people who live and work in Franklin County,” said Tonya Powers, President and CEO of the Franklin County Industrial Building Authority. “We needed a partner that brings real estate knowledge, national retailer connections, and a plan that goes beyond the first conversation. Retail Strategies brings all of that to the table, and we’re ready to get to work.”
Retail Strategies will deliver a comprehensive recruitment strategy that includes site and location analysis, targeted outreach to national retailers, and a clear roadmap for next steps following retailer conversations. The firm’s approach combines proprietary consumer data, active broker relationships, and direct retailer engagement to move prospects from initial contact to signed leases.
“I’ve been in conversations with Tonya for a number of years about finding the right moment to partner, and that moment is here,” said Mill Graves, Vice President at Retail Strategies. “Franklin County has a tremendous story to tell, the interstate access, the location between two strong retail markets, and communities ready to grow. We’re going to work with each community in the county to make sure we’re identifying the right opportunities in the right places.”
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.
