When starting a business, navigating those initial big decisions lay the foundation for whether the business will truly be put to the test and have the opportunity to thrive. In Huntsville, local and small business growth is rampant and still on the rise, which has landed it in the sights of business owners and cooperations alike as a potential hotspot for growth.

Local business expert Jerry Bird of FranNet Huntsville took time to discuss Huntsville’s entrepreneurial allure with the Huntsville Business Journal, along with Pollo Compero’s Director of Franchise Development, Blas Escarcega, and Christmas Decor’s President, Brandon Stephens, whose very different, but incredibly successful companies are both considering Huntsville in their business opportunities.

FranNet is a group of experienced franchise experts with decades in the industry, with the collective primary focus on connecting individuals with their unique idea of the right opportunity.

“With the growth of Huntsville, we have noticed a jump in business opportunities to not only support new businesses but also existing businesses. In addition, we have seen the service sectors explode to service the population,” said Bird on the business activity in Huntsville.

“The first thing that pops to mind is the ongoing need for Business Services in multiple areas – IT as well as basic business support,” Bird continued.

When asked for any advice that Bird had to share with Huntsville’s local and small business owners, he shared, “Stay on top of the trends and traffic patterns. Demographics are critical to developing a solid game plan for future growth. Network with folks that can help you stay ahead of the curve. Stay on top of all new technology that helps control not only cost, but also efficiency. Be an advocate of Customer Service.”

When asked why Huntsville is considered to be ripe for franchise growth over the next year, even with recent inflation, Bird explained, “First and foremost is the population increase and the need to support small business. Huntsville is a very affluent city with pockets of big opportunities. Service sectors are in big demand. Many franchises thrive in not only recessions, but inflation.”

With companies considering Huntsville, such as Pollo Campero and Christmas Decor, Pollo Campero’s Director of Franchise Development, Blas Escarcega, and Christmas Décor’s President Brandon Stephens, shared a bit on their respective companies, and why Huntsville is seen as such a hotspot for growth.

Pollo Campero started as a small family-owned restaurant in Guatemala in 1971 and has grown to one of the biggest chicken chains in the world. Through its flavor and quality, Pollo Campero offers a unique and convenient feel-good eating experience for individual, group/family, and catering occasions.

Chicken entrees can be ordered either Campero Fried or Citrus-Grilled, bone in or boneless and paired with an array of fresh sides, drinks, and desserts for a complete meal.

“We like the area due to economic growth and business-friendly environment. The metro area was recently voted as one of the best places to live in the US. Additionally, Huntsville is one of the fastest growth cities in the Southeastern USA with a rich history and cultural diversity with a low cost of living,” Escarcega stated.

With the recent success of many growing businesses, Huntsville provides a confident atmosphere for those who are willing to work towards their business goals.

When asked about this being a huge factor for interested businesses, Escarcega agreed.

“Absolutely. Pollo Campero has seen a growing legacy customer base from Central America who have a passion for the brand and live throughout the Southeastern USA. We believe that by offering our flavors to the community Pollo Campero will be successful.”

For Christmas Décor, the excitement feels much the same, especially as the holiday season arrives.

“There is tremendous demand for our services, and many home and business owners are frustrated that they either can’t do a magical display themselves, or simply do without. Most people celebrate the holidays in some fashion, which leads to demand for our services. We’ve found that all communities—large and small create opportunities to meet these needs,” shared President Brandon Stephens.

Founded in 1986 by Blake Smith, Christmas Decor has become the leading holiday decorating brand in the U.S. and Canada. Originally created as an off-season supplement to the landscaping business, the Texas-based franchise now brings holiday cheer to over 300 communities across North America, ultimately creating jobs for 3,000-plus seasonal workers that might otherwise be unemployed.

Backed by a strong business model and double-digit revenue increase year-over-year for the last 11 years, Christmas Decor is looking to grow in markets across the U.S. and Canada.

When asked what about Huntsville specifically is so attractive to entrepreneurs and potential business starters, including himself, Stephens responded that Huntsville’s market growth fits his business model.

“It’s a steadily growing market that has a stable population, good economics, and lots of businesses to support that population. All of these things create an opportunity to build a holiday decorating business.”

“Christmas Decor by Bama Exterminating (Tuscaloosa) has been one of our fastest-growing franchises in the United States, and Tracy Butler with Christmas Decor by Butler Services in Huntsville has been a solid performer for a long time, with steady growth. This gives us a lot of confidence that other contractors can go into the market and be successful,” concluded Stephens.

With so much excitement and interest from outside of Huntsville, it is still important to support those who are already here. As local business expert Jerry Bird stated, with the growth of Huntsville, there is an opportunity to support new and blossoming businesses, but also opportunities to support those who have been established and nurtured by the community throughout the years.

Cover image provided by Dreamstime.