Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessTexas and Nuevo León Advance Strategic Economic Partnership
Officials from Texas and Nuevo León have initiated a strategic economic partnership following two days of meetings in Austin. The delegation from Nuevo León, led by Governor Samuel García and Consejo Nuevo León President Andrés Garza Herrera, discussed investment, innovation, and workforce development with Texas representatives. Key discussions included the creation of a strategic working group to enhance cooperation and share best practices. This collaboration aims to strengthen the economic ties between the two regions and will focus on initiatives like the Bigger, Better Texas Plan, fostering long-term prosperity and competitiveness.
BusinessBurlington Stores Opens New Location in Mercedes
Burlington Stores, Inc. is set to open a new location in Mercedes, Texas, marking its 160th store in the state. The store will feature a modern design and offer a wide range of branded merchandise at discounts of up to 60% off regular retail prices. The grand opening is scheduled for September 18, 2026, at 6001 E. Expressway 83, Suite F, where the first 100 customers aged 18 and over will receive a $10 Bonus Card. Additionally, Burlington will donate $5,000 to a local high-needs school to support educational resources, emphasizing its commitment to community support.
BusinessThe Short-Term Economic Forecast for Texas Metropolitan Areas
Texas metropolitan areas are expected to experience significant economic growth from 2025 to 2030, despite existing uncertainties. The largest urban centers will lead this expansion, contributing approximately 1.08 million jobs, accounting for 78% of the state's total employment increase. The Austin-Round Rock-Georgetown area is projected to have a 1.95% annual growth rate in jobs, while Dallas-Plano-Irving is expected to grow at 1.85%. McAllen-Edinburg-Mission will see a 1.76% increase. Smaller metropolitan areas will also contribute to job growth, with some like Midland and Brownsville-Harlingen exceeding state averages. Overall, Texas is poised for positive economic trends.
BusinessTexas cities say Abbott proposal to disband their electric companies wont lower costs
Texas cities, including Austin and San Antonio, are opposing Governor Greg Abbott's proposal to disband their municipal electric utilities, claiming it would not lower electricity costs as intended. These cities argue that their nonprofit utilities provide affordable rates and contribute significant revenue to local services. The governor's plan, which aims to introduce private competition, is said to potentially increase rates and create financial burdens for residents. Austin Energy and CPS Energy emphasize their role in community support, while critics warn that deregulation could worsen budget deficits and fail to address rising electricity prices. The debate continues amid a challenging economic climate.
BusinessTexas Venture Fest Returns to Brownsville on October 1st
The eBridge Center for Business & Commercialization in Brownsville will host the fourth annual Texas Venture Fest on October 1, 2026. This statewide event aims to connect entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders from across Texas, with over 3,500 participants expected. The festival will feature more than 100 speakers and take place in 20 cities and over 30 venues. It provides a platform for local entrepreneurs in the Rio Grande Valley to network and engage with a broader entrepreneurial community. Registration is currently open and free, with further details to be announced as they are confirmed.
BusinessHow much water does it take to power AI? A local RGV engineer explains
MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As data centers expand across the country — including several projects planned for the Rio Grande Valley — concerns over how much water they use are growing. The facilities are designed to store and process massive amounts of information, including the computing power behind artificial intelligence. Jacob Garza, a principal engineer with
BusinessWill the Rio Grande Valley's famous '956' area code soon change?
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Will the Rio Grande Valley change area codes? The National American Numbering Plan, also known as NANP, has filed a relief plan for area code 956. According to the NANP, a relief plan is a strategy to introduce a new area code when an existing area code runs out of phone numbers.
BusinessWorkforce Solutions Jobs Update, 9-8-26
Texas Workforce Solutions is hosting several job events this week. On Tuesday, September 8, a hiring event by Pure Flavor will take place from 9 AM to 12 PM at Workforce Solutions South McAllen, located at 2101 S. 2nd St. In Edinburg, an information session for the U.S. Border Patrol will also be held on the same day at Workforce Solutions Edinburg from 9 AM to 12 PM. Additionally, a job fair called Alton Career Connect is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, at the Alton Rec Center from 9 AM to 12 PM, followed by another hiring event at the McAllen Convention Center from 10:30 AM to 4 PM. Another hiring event will occur on Thursday, September 10, at Workforce Solutions South McAllen from 9 AM to 12 PM.
BusinessAndrew Davis Returns to Mission for Inaugural Small Business Expo
Andrew Davis, a renowned marketing speaker and bestselling author, will be the keynote speaker at the inaugural Mission Small Business Expo on September 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Mission Event Center. This free event, hosted by the Mission Economic Development Corporation, aims to connect entrepreneurs with resources and opportunities for business growth. The expo will include expert-led sessions, workshops, and the Ruby Red Ventures Pitch Competition, featuring around 60 local businesses. Lone Star National Bank is the title sponsor, supporting local entrepreneurs. Davis's presentation, 'The Loyalty Loop,' will focus on enhancing customer experiences to build loyalty.
BusinessAre You Eligible? Today is the Deadline to Claim Part of the $50 Million Disney Streaming Settlement
Today marks the deadline for individuals who subscribed to YouTube TV or DirecTV Stream to claim a share of a $50 million settlement from a class-action lawsuit against Disney. The lawsuit, filed in 2022, alleged that Disney used its control over essential programming, including ESPN and Hulu, to manipulate the live streaming market. Eligible claimants are those who subscribed between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2026. Claims can be submitted online or via mail, with the final approval hearing scheduled for January 14, 2027. Payments will vary based on subscription duration and total claims approved.
BusinessSnoop Dogg is Looking to Hire an International Ice Cream Taster
Snoop Dogg's ice cream brand, Dr. Bombay, is looking for an International Ice Cream Taster for a three-month contract that pays $30,000. The selected candidate will travel globally, sampling unique ice creams and desserts, while sharing their findings with the Dr. Bombay team. Ideal applicants should be food enthusiasts, comfortable with social media, and able to tell stories about their experiences. Candidates must speak English, have a valid passport, and be available for the entire contract. Submissions can include videos and social media links. This position also allows the taster to help choose the next ice cream flavor for Snoop's brand.
BusinessCinemark brings 'Bring your Own Bucket' popcorn offer back
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Have a bucket, a pozole pot or a favorite popcorn tub? You're in luck, Cinemark has brought back "Bring Your Own Bucket" in celebration of National Popcorn Day! Cinemark is letting movie and popcorn lovers get creative and bring a clean bucket of their choice, up to 400 ounces, and enjoy the
BusinessMcDonald's highlights the Valley with '956' collectible cup
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — McDonald's launched its Texas bundle meal on Sept. 1, featuring collectible cups designed by Texas-based artist Avery Orendorf, with different areas of Texas and the 956 Valley is one of them. The meal includes 10-piece spicy or regular Chicken McNuggets, medium fries and a medium drink, plus one of the collectible
BusinessWalmart, Target, and Costco: What's Open and Closed This Labor Day?
This Labor Day weekend, many stores will adjust their hours or close. Notable retailers open include Best Buy, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Home Depot, while Walmart and Target will also be operational. However, Costco will be closed on September 7. BJ’s Wholesale Club will remain open, but hours may vary by location. Sam's Club will operate on special hours for members. CVS and Walgreens pharmacies will be open, though hours may differ. Federal banks and USPS offices will be closed on Labor Day, with limited ATM services available for banking needs.
BusinessTexas Comptroller closes Crunch Fitness in Pharr over nearly $400K in unpaid taxes
The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts has shut down Crunch Fitness in Pharr due to unpaid taxes totaling $398,133.76, accrued from September 2019 to July 2025. The closure, which took place on Friday, was supported by the Texas Department of Public Safety. A spokesperson for the Comptroller's office stated that efforts were made to negotiate with the gym's owners to settle the tax debt prior to enforcing a lien on the property. Channel 5 News is currently seeking additional information and will provide updates as they become available.
BusinessTexas Comptroller seizes Pharr Crunch Fitness for nonpayment of taxes
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts has seized a Pharr Crunch Fitness gym for nonpayment of taxes, according to Kevin Lyons, an agency spokesperson. The Crunch Fitness building, located at 500 N Jackson Road in Pharr, had a notice taped to the door on Friday stating: "The State Comptroller's Office has seized
Business7 Brew to Bring First Drive-Thru Coffee Stand to Weslaco
7 Brew, the popular drive-thru coffee brand, is set to open its first location in Weslaco at 905 N. Texas Blvd. The coffee stand was installed this week and is anticipated to open later this year. Known for its energetic service and over 20,000 customizable drink options, 7 Brew offers a variety of beverages including coffee, smoothies, and teas. The new stand is expected to create around 50 jobs in the area as part of the brand's expansion, which includes over 850 locations nationwide. More details about the grand opening will be shared closer to the launch date.
BusinessKelly Keel Named President and CEO of Texas Association of Business
Kelly Keel has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, effective October 2, 2026. Currently the executive director of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Keel brings 25 years of experience in environmental regulation and infrastructure. She emphasized the importance of a unified voice for Texas employers, especially as the state faces significant economic growth. Jo Betsy Norton, chair of the TAB Board, highlighted Keel's expertise in state government and her ability to address workforce and education needs. Keel holds degrees from Texas A&M University and resides in Austin with her family.
BusinessNADBank Secures $155 Million Equivalent in New Swiss Franc Bond Issuance
The North American Development Bank (NADBank) has successfully issued a bond worth CHF 125 million (approximately $155 million) managed by Deutsche Bank. The bond is set to mature on September 29, 2034, with a coupon rate of 1.125%. This marks NADBank's return to the Swiss bond market, supported by its strong credit ratings of 'Aa1/Prime-1' from Moody’s and 'AA/F1' from Fitch. The funds will be converted into Mexican pesos and U.S. dollars to finance infrastructure projects in both Mexico and the U.S. NADBank focuses on environmental infrastructure development along the U.S.-Mexico border.