Franklin welcomes Tractor Supply
A spokesperson for Tractor Supply has officially confirmed the company will open a new location soon in Russellville.
The new Tractor Supply location will be opened in the near future in Franklin Center, in what was formerly Royal Furniture, on Highway 43 in Russellville.
The spokesperson for Tractor Supply said more details will be made available soon.
The business announcement was made by Real Estate Southeast, led by redeveloper Louise Jennings. Jennings said she became involved with the redevelopment of Franklin Center a few years ago, following a successful project at Russellville Marketplace, bringing in Goody’s, Burke’s Outlet, Hibbett’s and Dollar Tree in place of the old Walmart. She began recruiting anchor retailers to Franklin Center – with Tractor Supply being one of her prime target prospects.
“It’s a very strong retailer, a Fortune 500 company,” Jennings said. “They bring a lot of great business and service to the community. They recognized Russellville was a good market. They have looked at Russellville for several years but finally decided to pull the trigger and open a store here.”
Located on Highway 43, Jennings described Franklin Center as a prime spot for a retailer like Tractor Supply.
“It’s very well located, and the opportunities in that property give you what we call ‘the good bones to work with,’” Jennings said. “Good location, good visibility, good access. It just needed some work and some fresh life, and that’s what Tractor Supply helps bring. The rest will fall into place.”
“The rest” includes other retailers and restaurants Jennings is in discussion with. She said it could be a matter of just a month or two before another new business is announced for Franklin Center.
“Russellville has been one of my favorite communities to bring business to,” said Jennings. “We’re excited. This will be a great project. This is one of the better examples of the before and afters.” Within two years, she added, she expects to see every storefront in Franklin Center thriving with business.
Real Estate Southeast operates out of Prattville, with redevelopments all over the Southeast region.
Royal Furniture will continue in operation until all merchandise is sold, in the building next door, according to owner Jimmy Jackson. Jackson said he will likely stay open through the end of June.
Construction and remodeling have already begun inside what was formerly the furniture store.
