Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessSoutheast Texas Grid Gets $200 Million Boost to Power Reliability
Governor Greg Abbott announced a $200 million grant from the Texas Energy Fund to enhance electric reliability for over 538,000 Entergy Texas customers in Southeast Texas. The funding will support projects aimed at strengthening power lines, upgrading utility poles, and protecting electric equipment from severe weather and flooding. Abbott emphasized the importance of reliable electricity for all Texans. The grant will finance two major projects, including the enhancement of over 400 miles of transmission lines and the fortification of five substations. These improvements are expected to reduce outages and improve power restoration times during extreme weather events.
BusinessALDI Gives Away Free Mystery Boxes: Here's How to Get Yours
Supermarket chain ALDI is launching its new 'ALDI Blind Box,' its own version of the popular surprise unboxing trend. The packages, filled with surprise products, offer ALDI customers a limited-time opportunity to claim a free box containing the store's 'fan favorite' items, according to a press release. From June 22 to June 25, a new 'ALDI Blind Box' will be released each day at 12:00 p.m. ET. Shoppers must visit the ALDI website each day to claim that day's themed free box while supplies last. The supermarket will also announce the theme of the next release on its Instagram account. 'Our customers come to ALDI for the prices, but also for the joy of discovery. From viral ALDI Finds to the everyday products that shoppers recommend to their friends, people love to find something new here. With surprise boxes more popular than ever, this is our way of helping customers discover even more favorites,' said Bridget Kozlowski, ALDI's communications director. The boxes come in four themes: the Snack Blind Box, the Fiber Blind Box, the Protein Blind Box, and a Mystery Blind Box, which the chain describes as 'all about the surprise.' While ALDI has not yet revealed the contents, the chain states that shoppers can expect a curated selection of products from throughout the store. How the ALDI Blind Box works: Follow @aldiusa on Instagram for daily previews of each box theme. Visit https://www.aldiblindbox.com from June 22 to June 25 at 12:00 p.m. ET each day. Select the Aldi Blind Box of the day. Enter your shipping information. Receive a free Aldi Blind Box delivered directly to your door.
BusinessWorkforce Solutions Jobs Update, 6-15-26
Texas Workforce Solutions is promoting its latest job opportunities, highlighting several positions available this week. Interested individuals can find these jobs and more at www.workintexas.com. Additionally, a Border Patrol information session is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 9 AM to 12 PM at Workforce Solutions in Weslaco, located at 2290 W. Pike Blvd., Ste. 100, Weslaco, TX 78596. This session aims to provide valuable insights for those considering a career in border security.
BusinessRGV Delegation Concludes Washington Mission With Focus on Transportation Water and Economic Development
The Rio Grande Valley Partnership wrapped up a significant delegation visit to Washington, D.C., from June 10-12, 2026, focusing on transportation, economic development, and water issues. Approximately 70 representatives from various sectors met with federal policymakers to address regional priorities, including infrastructure and workforce development. Key discussions included the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and the BUILD America 250 Act. RGV Partnership President Paco Sanchez highlighted meetings with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and other officials, emphasizing the importance of federal engagement for the Valley's growth and resource management. The mission aimed to strengthen the region's influence in federal policy.
BusinessThe Rise in Powdered Protein Consumption Causes Shortages and Record Prices
Consumers worldwide are seeking more protein in every bite, but the dairy industry is struggling to keep up. Athletes and older adults have long used shakes and smoothies mixed with whey protein concentrate—a powdered byproduct of cheese production—to build or maintain muscle. Recently, food companies have sprinkled it into everything from breakfast cereals, Pop-Tarts, and potato chips to bagels, tortillas, and Starbucks drinks to meet the growing consumer demand. The average supermarket in the U.S. now carries 38,708 products advertising their protein content, according to NielsenIQ, a market research firm. However, the rush to attract ingredient-focused shoppers is causing a shortage of food-grade whey protein and pushing prices to record highs. 'Demand is very strong and seems to be outpacing supply for now,' explained Kathleen Wolfley, vice president of Ever.Ag Insights, a data provider and consulting firm for the agricultural industry. Wolfley noted that wholesale prices for whey protein began rising in 2024, with the pace accelerating last year and into this year. Whey protein concentrate with 80% protein—the type typically used by food manufacturers and supplement companies as an enhancer—is trading on the U.S. dairy commodities market at over $13 per pound, a 250% increase from a year ago, according to Ever.Ag. Whey protein isolate, a more refined version containing at least 90% protein, is 150% more expensive than last year, the firm reported. This is raising prices for consumers. In the U.S., prices for whey protein concentrate powder have increased by about 15% over the past year, while higher-quality whey isolate powder has seen even steeper increases, according to Datasembly, a price monitoring company. The story is similar in Europe, where 80% whey protein concentrate hit an average record of $30,518 per metric ton at the end of May, more than double what it was less than a year ago, according to DCA Market Intelligence, a Dutch firm specializing in commodity prices. This is what is happening with whey protein and when supply constraints might ease.
BusinessFox Announces Acquisition of Streaming Platform Roku
Fox Corporation announced on Monday that it plans to acquire the video streaming giant Roku, along with its namesake channel and customer data, in a deal valued at a total of $25 billion. Fox, which also owns Tubi, will become the third largest player in television in the United States by audience share, adding over 100 million streaming households worldwide, according to Fox. According to Nielsen, The Roku Channel accounts for 3% of all streaming audience in the U.S., placing it fifth behind YouTube, Netflix, Disney, and Prime Video. Roku will continue to operate as an independent platform, Fox stated in a press release. It remains a key hub for viewers to access Netflix and YouTube on their televisions. According to Reuters, Roku's main source of revenue is advertising, with $613 million reported in the first quarter of this year, a 27% year-over-year increase.
Business5 On Your Side: Rio Hondo homeowner left with $38K in unfinished repairs
A homeowner in Rio Hondo, Melisa Martinez, has been left with $38,000 in unfinished repairs after hiring Alta RGV Construction nearly a year ago. She contracted the company for roof work and remodeling, but issues persist, including a leaking roof and an unbuilt wheelchair ramp. Martinez claims the project was supposed to take two to three months but has dragged on due to permit delays and other complications. She plans to pursue legal action to recover her funds. The Better Business Bureau advises homeowners to ensure all agreements, including completion dates, are documented before starting any work.
BusinessNew Edinburg light towers will also function as generators
The Edinburg Fire Department has acquired six new light towers funded by a state grant, costing $78,000. These towers will assist in large structure fires, highway accidents, and severe weather situations. Additionally, they serve as generators to power tools and city equipment during outages. Fire Chief Omar Garza emphasized the necessity of this upgrade, noting that the previous towers were outdated, approximately 20 years old, and cumbersome to transport. The new lightweight design allows for easier mobility by the command staff during emergency responses.
BusinessMexico's Victory in World Cup Brings Nearly $70 Million in Benefits
MEXICO CITY – The Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (Concanaco Servytur) estimated on Friday that Mexico's 2-0 victory over South Africa at the start of the 2026 World Cup generated an economic benefit exceeding 1.2 billion pesos (about $69.6 million) in Mexico City and areas linked to the tournament. The organization attributed the spending to consumption in restaurants, hotels, bars, transportation, retail, souvenir sales, and local activations, according to a statement released after the opening match. 'Nationally, the tournament could represent up to 65 billion pesos (almost $3.768 billion) for the sector, provided that opportunities also reach micro, small, and medium enterprises (MiPyMEs) and are not concentrated in large chains,' warned Octavio de la Torre, president of Concanaco Servytur. The Confederation noted that businesses in the so-called 'last mile,' the access perimeter to the Estadio Ciudad de México, better known as Estadio Azteca, opened their doors despite declines in sales attributed to mobilizations by the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE).
BusinessMcAllen Public Library, Workforce Solutions to host weekend job fair
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The McAllen Public Library and Workforce Solutions are partnering to host a free job fair on Saturday. More than 40 employers are scheduled to attend the event to network with potential employees. A list of employers scheduled to attend the job event is available at this link. The job fair will
BusinessGrants available for businesses in Mission downtown area
Businesses located in the downtown area of Mission may be eligible for grants of up to $25,000, as announced by the Mission Economic Development Corporation. These funds can be allocated for building renovations, equipment purchases, or inventory and do not require repayment. The grants are specifically for businesses situated along Conway Avenue from 1st to 18th streets in the historic district. Brianna Casares, Programs Director of Mission EDC, noted that past recipients have reported increased profits and hiring. The application period is currently open and will close at the end of the month.
BusinessAnnual Address Highlights Port of Brownsville’s Role as Regional Economic Engine
The Port of Brownsville held its annual State of the Port Address on June 11 at the Rancho Viejo Conference Center, celebrating its 90th anniversary. Business leaders, elected officials, and community members gathered to discuss the port's growth and its role as an economic driver in the Rio Grande Valley. BND Vice Chairman Ernesto Gutierrez highlighted over $30 billion in potential investments across various sectors, including energy and aerospace. The event also recognized the 2026 scholarship recipients from the Port of Brownsville Scholarship Program, emphasizing the port's commitment to local education and workforce development.
BusinessAbbott Highlights Financial Milestone as SpaceX Joins Nasdaq and Nasdaq Texas
Governor Greg Abbott praised SpaceX's decision to dual-list on Nasdaq and Nasdaq Texas as part of its initial public offering. He emphasized that this move not only strengthens Texas's economy but also creates high-skill jobs, showcasing the state as a hub for innovation and global capital. SpaceX, which has its headquarters and Starbase in the Rio Grande Valley, will trade under the ticker SPCX. This dual listing is seen as a significant milestone for both SpaceX and Texas, marking the state's growing importance in global capital markets and its commitment to fostering transformative companies.
BusinessRyan Peterson Discusses Rio Grande Valley Growth and Economic Expansion
Ryan Peterson recently discussed the rapid growth and economic expansion of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) in an interview with Texas Border Business. He emphasized that the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro area is now the fifth-largest in Texas, challenging outdated perceptions of the region as a small town. Peterson highlighted the RGV's strategic position for growth, driven by factors such as its workforce, healthcare expansion, and international trade infrastructure. He noted increasing interest from investors in various sectors, including logistics and healthcare, as the region evolves into a major economic hub. Peterson believes the RGV is already a significant player in commerce and should be recognized as such.
BusinessJorge Torres of Interlink Delivers USMCA Review as Automotive Supply Chains Take Center Stage in McAllen
On June 11, 2026, Jorge Torres, president of Interlink Trade Services, spoke at a COSTEP meeting in McAllen, addressing members of the Cluster Automotriz de San Luis Potosí and regional economic leaders. He discussed the upcoming review of the USMCA, emphasizing its significance for North American trade, and confirmed the agreement's validity until June 30, 2036. Torres highlighted potential changes to vehicle regional value content requirements and the impact of Section 232 tariffs on auto parts. He encouraged manufacturers to explore opportunities in the Rio South Texas Region, known for its logistics advantages and industrial potential.
BusinessHistoric Debut: SpaceX Goes Public with an Astronomical Valuation of $1.7 Trillion
SpaceX is set to make its historic debut on the stock market this Friday, with shares priced at $135 each, giving the company a staggering valuation of $1.77 trillion. Trading under the symbol SPCX, the initial price indications began at 9:50 a.m. ET, although actual trading may take hours to commence. Goldman Sachs leads the underwriting team, alongside Morgan Stanley and others. While the excitement around AI fuels market optimism, some analysts, like those from Morningstar, argue that SpaceX is overvalued, estimating its worth at $780 billion. The IPO is seen as a significant test for financial markets and investor appetite.
BusinessPharr breaks ground on $50 million multi-use facility
Pharr has officially begun construction on a new multi-use facility valued at $50 million. This facility will serve both city operations and public events upon its completion. Mayor Ambrosio 'Amos' Hernandez emphasized the importance of creating a modern and artistic space for the residents of Pharr and the Rio Grande Valley. The project is anticipated to take approximately two years to finish.
BusinessRio Bank Executive Says Bank On INT Helps Retain Local Talent
Albert Guajardo, Senior EVP and Chief Lending Officer at Rio Bank, highlighted the importance of the Bank On INT internship program during a signing ceremony on June 5, 2026. This initiative, a collaboration between the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, UTRGV, and local banks, aims to nurture and retain talent from the Rio Grande Valley. Guajardo noted increased interest from financial institutions and shared the success of intern Marcus Casarez, who was hired full-time. The program provides students with valuable banking experience while fostering connections between education and local employers.
BusinessMcAllen repair shop has an F-rating and a pattern of broken promises, Better Business Bureau says
Humberto Arruda, an Edinburg resident, paid $2,240 to Menchaca Lawn Equipment Repair in McAllen for equipment repairs but has yet to see results months later. After purchasing a lawnmower, he attempted to buy a generator and concrete saw, only to be told the generator needed parts. Despite multiple visits and varying explanations, no repairs were made. Arruda filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which has received five unresolved complaints against the shop, leading to an F-rating. Owner Maria Menchaca cited health and staffing issues but denied any intent to mislead customers.