DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News) – As part of a national plan to help under served communities develop economically, Starbucks has announced plans to open a store in the struggling Southwest Center Mall Red Bird in South Dallas.
Peter Brodsky, the mall’s owner, said most people have written off the area but there is a real economic demand that is not being met. He said his mall was a perfect fit for Starbucks for two reasons.
“They’re looking for a site that is in a community that can support them economically, so they are seeking to make a profit. They also want a site that has needs that can be addressed through things like job training and other programs they’ve got,” he said.
South Dallas has been plagued with a problems like a lack of food resources, top-tier education and job opportunities. Brodksy said the fact that a corporate giant like Starbucks made the first move is a positive step for a traditionally under served area.
“My hope is that other of the types of restaurants and amenities will follow their lead. Somebody always has to go first and in this case I think this is the first of many,” he said.
Another positive aspect for Brodksy was the companies compassionate ethos when participating with these types of revitalization projects.
“I love the job training aspect. I love the fact that they are going to be using majority minority and women-owned businesses to construct the building. I love the fact that they will provide an opportunity for the community to sell baked goods in their stores,” he said.
The store is expected to open near the mall’s main entrance in the Spring of 2018.
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