News Summary
The Shreveport City Council has unanimously approved the development of a new 7-Eleven store at the intersection of Pines and Greenwood roads. This marks the chain’s return to Louisiana after 35 years, filling a significant gap in the local convenience store market. The zoning changes necessary for this project were previously approved by the Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission, including modifications to address local safety concerns. While the development offers new opportunities, residents worry about its competitive impact on existing businesses.
Shreveport Approves New 7-Eleven Development
The Shreveport City Council has voted unanimously to approve the development of a new 7-Eleven store, marking the convenience chain’s return to Louisiana after an absence of 35 years. The store will be situated at the corner of Pines and Greenwood roads, specifically on the northwest corner of the intersection.
This decision comes after the Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) previously approved the zoning changes necessary for the project. Modifications were included to prevent overnight parking for 18-wheelers, addressing local concerns about potential disturbances.
Background and Context
7-Eleven has not operated in Louisiana since 1988 when it exited the market following the acquisition of 473 of its stores by Circle K. This $150 million deal included both the stores and associated real estate, affecting not only Louisiana but also Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, and South Carolina. The exit left a significant gap in the convenience store landscape within the state, which the new development aims to fill.
Currently, 7-Eleven is undergoing a major expansion plan, intending to open 1,300 new stores nationwide within the next five years, with over 100 expected to debut in the current year. The company already operates more than 13,000 locations across the United States, making it one of the largest convenience store chains in the country.
Concerns from Local Businesses
Local business owners have voiced apprehensions about the potential harm to their operations and predict traffic issues that could arise from the new development. Employees from nearby businesses also highlighted the existing oversaturation of gas stations in the area, suggesting that the introduction of another major chain may hinder their viability.
Future Development Plans
In addition to the new 7-Eleven, property developers have indicated plans for further developments in the area, including additional retail spaces. These developments may encompass restaurants and urgent care facilities, further altering the business landscape of west Shreveport.
Justin Weathers, a representative of the developers, has discussed these ideas with city leaders, emphasizing a vision for a more extensive retail hub around the new 7-Eleven store. While the development presents new opportunities, it also invites scrutiny regarding the balance between new and existing businesses in the community.
Conclusion
As Shreveport moves forward with the approval of the new 7-Eleven store, the effects on the local economy and businesses remain to be seen. The unanimous council vote not only marks a significant milestone for the convenience chain’s return to the state but also the beginning of new economic dynamics in the area.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Shreveport City Council Approves New 7-Eleven Store
Shreveport Welcomes 7-Eleven’s Return After Three Decades
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Times: Shreveport City Council Approves New 7-Eleven
- 710 KEEL: Louisiana’s 7-Eleven Return
- K945: Shreveport Growth
- Dignity Memorial: Donald Shelton
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: ShrevePride Month
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
