What New Business is Planning to Open a Store in Lufkin, Texas?

I was doing a broadcast this past weekend at a store located in the SouthLoop Crossing Shopping Center in Lufkin and had a conversation with a businessman while I was there.  He told me that there was a rumor that a new business was going to be located in that shopping complex.

That new store, he said, is pOpshelf

What is pOpshelf?

According to an article in RetailDive.com, pOpshelf is a new concept store developed by Dollar General which is aimed at suburban women. Their stores have been popping up (sorry for the pun) quite a lot over the past two years. Their closest stores to Deep East Texas are located in Huntsville and Tyler.

Their website reveals that they carry a lot of affordable home and seasonal decor (usually $5 or less), kitchen utensils, party supplies, and much more. Think upscale Dollar General and I think you're on the right track.

A look at their Facebook page shows that their concept stores have been met with a lot of positive responses.

So...Are They Coming to Lufkin or not?

I reached out to the public relations department at pOpshelf, and this is their response:

At this time, we are currently finalizing our due diligence phase for a new pOpshelf in Lufkin, Texas. Based on our current timeline, we anticipate to break ground in the coming weeks.

Two Things Stick Out About That Statement

Yes, it does look like they will be opening a store soon in Lufkin. But, will it be a stand-alone store or will they inhabit one of the vacant stores in the SouthLoop Crossing Shopping Center?

The term 'break ground' is used in the statement. Not sure if that's just a blanket term meaning that they will be opening soon, or will they actually break ground and construct a new facility?