CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman is experiencing a surge in business growth, and Cullman Economic Development Agency (CEDA) Retail & Workforce Development Manager Susan Eller shared updates on the city’s business landscape, highlighting new projects, closures and challenges facing local businesses.
There are several projects either underway or about to break ground, including:
- Redstone Federal Credit Union on U.S. Highway 31 North, which will include additional leasable space
- Outback Steakhouse in the Cullman Shopping Center
- Academy Sports + Outdoors along King Edward Street
- Dunkin’ Donuts near KFC in south Cullman
- 7 Brew in the Lowe’s parking lot
- Wing Stop near Walmart on Cherokee Avenue
- City Play Indoor Play Area, now in its second phase, with plans for a third phase
- Honey Baked Ham, expected in 2026
- Quick Trip Truck Stop, Jubilee Coffee & Wine Bar and Seven Daughters Scoops (second location)
Notable developments in the Good Hope area include Ethos Craft Brewing, Bloom Winery and Love’s Travel Stop.
“These new projects demonstrate the vitality and growth potential of our region,” Eller said.
While growth is evident, some businesses are closing their doors. Recent closures include:
- Badcock Furniture, due to its parent company’s bankruptcy
- CVS Pharmacy
- Vintage West
- The Sport Center, though this location was sold and reopened on Alabama Highway 69 near Dodge City
Eller identified several challenges businesses face in maintaining operations, including workforce shortages and high costs of lease space, construction and land.
“The City has provided infrastructure support such as red lights, turn lanes, sidewalks and utility relocations to assist businesses,” she said.
Eller highlighted how changes in ownership have revitalized several local establishments, such as:
- Rumors Deli expanded hours, added dinner and brunch options, and introduced entertainment.
- Pasquale’s underwent a full renovation and expansion.
- Werner’s improved its interior and expanded product lines.
- All Steak made significant renovations under new ownership.
When asked about the potential for a tiny business district to support startups, Eller said, “While there are obvious benefits to helping entrepreneurs, more research is needed to determine feasibility.”
She mentioned existing resources like the Small Business Development Center, North Alabama Regional Council of Governments and Wallace State Community College, which offer support ranging from business planning to small grants.
Eller pointed out successes like Rita Dean’s three-store expansion in the Warehouse District and Ashley Mercantile’s second location in Muscle Shoals. “These are examples of how local entrepreneurs are thriving,” she said.
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