Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessTxDOT hosts event to collaborate with small business owners
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Transportation Pharr District welcomed a group of local business owners during its annual outreach event on Monday. The annual event was geared towards small business owners, offering a chance to connect with local TxDOT engineers, prime contractors and representatives from other small businesses. Rex Costley, Deputy Engineer
BusinessBrownsville restaurant credits World Cup watch parties for jump in sales
Ramses Tacos & Tequilas in Brownsville has reported a significant increase in summer sales, attributing this boost to the World Cup festivities. The restaurant hosted viewing parties for all 48 matches, drawing larger crowds, especially during games featuring popular teams like Mexico and the U.S. To accommodate the influx of customers, the restaurant expanded its staff from 20-25 to around 40-50 employees. Manager Gabriel Exinia noted a 30% rise in sales compared to May, highlighting the success of the season. Patrons, like Ashok Nair, expressed that the lively atmosphere enhanced their viewing experience compared to watching at home.
BusinessPharr EDC Launches Digital Facade Initiative to Help Local Businesses Strengthen Their Online Presence
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) has launched the Digital Facade Initiative to assist local businesses in enhancing their online visibility. This program aims to ensure that businesses are easily searchable and accurately represented on platforms like Google. Pharr EDC staff will conduct visits to local companies to review their digital storefronts, including Google Business Profiles and essential information for customers. Leticia Adame, Economic & Workforce Director, emphasizes the importance of a strong digital presence for customer trust. Businesses interested in this initiative can reach out to Pharr EDC for support.
BusinessWorkforce Solutions Jobs Update, 7-20-26
Texas Workforce Solutions is hosting several job events this week. An information session for Border Patrol will take place on Tuesday, July 21, from 9 AM to 12 PM at Workforce Solutions in Mission. On Wednesday, July 22, two hiring events are scheduled: one from 8 AM to 12 PM at Rio Plex Safety Council in McAllen and another from 9 AM to 12 PM at Workforce Solutions in Mission. Additionally, a Skilled Trades Job Fair will be held on Thursday, July 23, from 9 AM to 12 PM at the Edinburg Activity Center. More details can be found at workintexas.com.
BusinessFairlife Halts Production in the U.S. After Cyberattack
Fairlife, the milk brand owned by Coca-Cola, has halted its production in the United States following a ransomware cyberattack that compromised parts of its systems. The company announced on Thursday that it detected unauthorized access, prompting a temporary shutdown of operations. Coca-Cola stated that product quality and safety remain unaffected, and operations in Canada continue as normal. The full extent of the attack is still unclear, but Coca-Cola is cooperating with authorities and cybersecurity experts to investigate and recover. Fairlife, based in Chicago, boasts over $3 billion in annual retail sales and offers a range of lactose-free products.
BusinessValleyCentral Weekend Report: Campaign visits and new tech coming to RGV
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On this week’s edition of ValleyCentral Weekend Report, Weekend Anchor Brian Svendsen breaks down all the biggest stories from the week. Starting with the biggest stories of the week, in case you missed them. In a massive announcement this week, Seronic Technologies announced they will begin building a massive $3.2 billion facility at the Port of Brownsville. In another
BusinessMendez Avenue repaving project set to begin in Roma
The city of Roma is set to begin repaving Mendez Avenue, a crucial route for heavy trucks at the port of entry. The existing asphalt is deteriorating due to the increased traffic, which Congressman Henry Cuellar noted has surged by 600%. The city is investing $150,000 and utilizing a nearly $500,000 grant for the project. Cuellar emphasized that the rise in truck traffic correlates with job creation and economic growth. The repaving work is expected to commence within three months and will take approximately six to eight months to finish.
BusinessConsumer Reports: Home gym for cheap
Creating a home gym can be a cost-effective way to stay fit without a gym membership. Consumer Reports highlights essential equipment for home workouts, emphasizing adjustable dumbbells as a smart investment. These allow users to easily change weights, saving both money and space. Top-rated options include the NordicTrack 55-pound and Core Home Fitness 50-pound dumbbells, both priced under $400. Resistance bands are another affordable choice, effective for strength training and suitable for various fitness levels, with Whatafit bands recommended at about $28 for five. Additionally, workout headphones like Apple AirPods Pro and Beats Fit Pro are suggested for an enhanced experience, while cautioning against certain HomeProGym bands that may be unsafe.
BusinessCity of Alamo offering grants up to $15, 000 for new, local businesses
The City of Alamo is providing financial assistance to support the launch of new local businesses. There are two funding options: a start-up grant and a revolving loan fund, both available exclusively to Alamo residents. This season, the Alamo Economic Development Corporation will award five grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 for businesses that have a commercial property. To receive reimbursement, qualifying businesses must submit an invoice. Mayor J.R. Garza emphasized the importance of generating sales tax and noted that applications will be reviewed by the EDC's board of directors.
BusinessTexas Hits Record 14.46 Million Nonfarm Jobs After June Surge
Texas achieved a record high of 14,469,600 nonfarm jobs in June, adding 43,400 jobs and surpassing the national growth rate. The state's labor force now totals 15,904,900, with 15,203,600 individuals employed, including self-employed workers. Governor Abbott highlighted Texas as a hub for innovation and prosperity, emphasizing its favorable business climate. Additionally, Saronic Technologies, Inc. plans to build Port Alpha, a massive shipyard at the Port of Brownsville, with a $3.25 billion investment that will create 10,000 jobs. This growth reflects Texas's ongoing economic expansion and job creation efforts.
BusinessTexas Upstream Energy Sector Posts June Job Gains
The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) reported a 400-job increase in the state's upstream oil and natural gas sector from May to June 2026, despite a loss of 900 jobs in extraction. The service sector gained 1,300 jobs, totaling 135,800. In June, Texas had 10,978 unique job postings in the industry, with Houston leading at 2,770 postings. The median salary for advertised positions was $54,100, with 37% requiring a bachelor's degree. Texas oil producers paid $948 million in production taxes, including $736 million in oil taxes, marking a record monthly collection.
BusinessSaronic Technologies moving forward with $3. 2 billion shipyard project at Port of Brownsville
Saronic Technologies is set to establish the largest shipyard in the U.S. at the Port of Brownsville, with a $3.2 billion investment expected to generate 10,000 jobs in South Texas. Governor Greg Abbott announced the project, named Port Alpha, which will focus on AI-driven autonomous vessels for potential military use. Saronic aims to enhance the industrial capacity and workforce necessary for American maritime leadership. The company will collaborate with local educational institutions for workforce training. Cameron County has approved a 95% tax break for the project, which is anticipated to significantly boost the local economy and create new opportunities for families.
BusinessBrownsville vendors react to new $50 fee for monthly First Friday event
Vendors at Brownsville's monthly First Friday event will now face a $50 fee for their spots. City Commissioner Pedro Cardenas explained that rising production costs necessitated this change to support city staff and promote the event. Reactions among vendors vary; Leticia Gonzalez, a mother of six, expressed concerns about the added expense, stating it could be unmanageable given her current costs. In contrast, Aldo Banuelos, a newer vendor, feels the fee won't significantly impact his business. Cardenas mentioned that they are considering lower-cost options for some vendors to ease the financial burden.
BusinessBrownsville lands $3. 2B AI drone tech company. Community members question the impact it. could bring
Brownsville has secured a significant investment from Saronic Technologies, an AI drone manufacturer, which plans to build a $3.2 billion shipyard at the Port of Brownsville. This project is expected to create 10,000 jobs over the next decade and generate a $160 billion economic impact for Cameron County. While city leaders view this as a vital step toward reducing local poverty, critics express concerns about potential environmental damage and socioeconomic disparities. The poverty rate in Brownsville remains around 24%, more than double the national average. Construction is set to begin this year, with operations starting in 2028.
BusinessLocal, state officials react to Saronic coming to the Port of Brownsville
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Local and state officials are reacting to the announcement that Saronic Technologies, an Austin-based maritime defense company, is coming to the Port of Brownsville. Gov. Greg Abbott and Saronic Technologies on Thursday announced that the $3.2 billion investment will be built on 800 acres and will expand to over 4,000 acres
BusinessPort of Brownsville Set to Anchor Next-Gen Autonomous Naval Shipyard
The Port of Brownsville has been selected by Saronic Technologies to host Project Alpha, a $3.2 billion next-generation shipyard expected to create over 10,000 jobs. Announced by Governor Greg Abbott, this project marks a significant economic development milestone for the Rio Grande Valley and Texas. Covering 835 acres, construction is set to begin in 2026, with operations anticipated to start in 2028. The shipyard will enhance the port's role in the maritime industry and is projected to generate more than $160 billion in economic impact for Cameron County. Local leaders emphasize the project's importance for job creation and national defense.
BusinessGovernor Abbott Announces $3.2 Billion Saronic Technologies Expansion in Brownsville
Governor Greg Abbott announced that Saronic Technologies, Inc. will build Port Alpha, a next-generation shipyard at the Port of Brownsville, representing a $3.2 billion investment. This facility is expected to be the largest shipyard in the U.S., creating approximately 10,000 jobs and providing $750 million in annual wages. The project has received an $80 million grant from the Texas Enterprise Fund and a $78,000 bonus for veteran-created jobs. Saronic aims to enhance the U.S. maritime industry and will collaborate with local educational institutions for workforce training. Abbott emphasized Texas's leadership in shipbuilding and economic development.
BusinessSaronic Technologies moving forward with $3. 2b shipyard project at Port of Brownsville
Saronic Technologies is set to establish the largest shipyard in the U.S. at the Port of Brownsville, with a $3.2 billion investment that will create 10,000 jobs in South Texas. The facility, named Port Alpha, will focus on producing AI-driven autonomous vessels for potential naval applications. Governor Greg Abbott, who attended the announcement in Austin, emphasized Texas's leadership in shipbuilding and the significant economic impact of the project, which is expected to generate $750 million in annual salaries. Saronic plans to collaborate with local educational institutions for workforce training, supported by a 95% tax break approved by Cameron County commissioners.
BusinessMcDonald's Introduces Caesar Dressing to Its Menu Alongside New Products
Caesar dressing lovers, McDonald's has good news for you. The fast-food chain is adding Caesar dressing to its menu, a tempting and creamy blend of Parmesan cheese with garlic and lemon that will add a special touch to your favorite dishes. Starting Tuesday, July 21, fans of the restaurant can request the dressing to accompany their favorite chicken dishes. Along with the dressing, new menu options are arriving: Caesar Snack Wrap: A strip of breaded chicken with lettuce, shredded cheese, and Caesar dressing, wrapped in a soft tortilla. Available nationwide for $2.99. Bacon Caesar McCrispy Sandwich: A McCrispy fillet topped with Caesar dressing, thick-cut applewood bacon, shredded lettuce, Roma tomatoes, crispy onions, and sliced pickles on toasted potato bread. Caesar Dressing Cup: If the dressing isn't enough or you want extra, you can order cups of dressing a la carte at participating restaurants.