Murrells Inlet, February 9, 2026
The Inlet Square Mall in Murrells Inlet is undergoing a revitalization with new businesses set to open, including Hobby Lobby. This transformation highlights the power of private investment and community foresight, creating job opportunities and boosting the local economy.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What is happening at the Inlet Square Mall in Murrells Inlet?
The Inlet Square Mall is undergoing a significant redevelopment to transform it into a modern commercial hub, driven by private investment and community support. This strategic transformation follows the mall’s closure at the beginning of the year for extensive renovations.
What new businesses are confirmed to be joining the revitalized mall?
Hobby Lobby is confirmed as a major anchor tenant, and plans are underway for a new, as-yet-unidentified coffee company to be built adjacent to Chipotle.
Who is leading the redevelopment efforts for the Inlet Square Mall?
Paramount Development Corporation is playing a key role in guiding the mall’s transition, with the local Council also taking proactive steps to support the revitalization since November 2023.
What are the expected economic benefits of this mall redevelopment?
This revitalization is expected to generate substantial positive economic ripple effects, including new job creation, increased local tax revenues, and positioning Murrells Inlet as a more attractive destination.
Are existing businesses like Planet Fitness and Belk remaining at the mall?
Yes, established tenants such as Planet Fitness and Belk are expected to remain operational despite the extensive renovations and new business introductions.
Murrells Inlet Mall Reimagined: New Businesses Ignite Local Growth
The revitalized Inlet Square Mall is set to welcome a wave of new enterprises, signaling a vibrant future for the local economy and demonstrating the power of private investment and community foresight.
Murrells Inlet, SC – The economic landscape of Murrells Inlet is experiencing a significant revitalization as the Inlet Square Mall undergoes a substantial transformation. This redevelopment effort, driven by entrepreneurial vision and private investment, is poised to usher in a new era of commerce and opportunity for the community. The reimagining of a traditional retail space into a modern commercial hub underscores the adaptability of Myrtle Beach SC business and the enduring spirit of South Carolina entrepreneurs.
The renewed focus on revitalizing existing infrastructure, rather than starting from scratch, highlights a practical and effective approach to fostering economic growth. This strategy not only creates new job opportunities but also breathes new life into areas that have served the community for decades, ensuring sustained vitality for local businesses and residents alike.
A New Vision for Inlet Square Mall
The Inlet Square Mall, a familiar landmark in Murrells Inlet, has been undergoing extensive renovations and redevelopment to prepare for a new array of businesses. This strategic transformation follows the mall’s closure at the beginning of the new year, though existing tenants like Planet Fitness and Belk were expected to remain. Paramount Development Corporation is playing a key role in this ambitious undertaking, guiding the mall’s transition into a modern commercial center.
The journey toward redevelopment began with significant community and governmental engagement. In November 2023, the local Council took initial steps to support the revitalization of Inlet Square Mall, recognizing its importance as “The Gateway into Horry”. This proactive stance from local leadership helps pave the way for private sector innovation to flourish, demonstrating a collaborative spirit that benefits the entire region.
Anchoring the Future: Key New Tenants
The ongoing redevelopment has already attracted several new and notable businesses. A major anchor tenant confirmed for the revitalized mall is Hobby Lobby. The arrival of such a prominent retailer is expected to draw significant foot traffic, creating a beneficial ripple effect for other businesses within and around the mall. In addition to Hobby Lobby, plans are underway for a new coffee company to be built adjacent to Chipotle, though the specific name of this business has not yet been disclosed.
These additions represent a diversified approach to retail and service offerings, catering to a broader spectrum of consumer needs and preferences. The mix of established national brands and new local ventures highlights the dynamic nature of Myrtle Beach small business and its capacity for sustained expansion.
Table of New Business Announcements
| Business Type | Status | Expected Impact | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hobby Lobby (Crafts/Home Decor) | Announced/Planned | Increased retail traffic, job creation | Local |
| Coffee Company (unidentified) | Announced/Planned | New dining option, community gathering spot | Local |
| Existing Tenants (Planet Fitness, Belk) | Remaining | Maintain established services and customer base | Local |
Economic Ripple Effects and Community Insights
The influx of new businesses and the comprehensive redevelopment of Inlet Square Mall are expected to generate substantial positive economic ripple effects across Murrells Inlet and the wider Grand Strand area. New retail establishments and service providers inherently lead to job creation, offering residents new employment opportunities and contributing to local household incomes. This rise in employment is a key indicator of robust economic growth.
Furthermore, increased commercial activity typically translates into higher local tax revenues, which can then be reinvested into public services and infrastructure improvements, enhancing the quality of life for all residents. The revitalization also positions Murrells Inlet as an even more attractive destination for both residents and visitors, fostering a vibrant local economy and strong community insights.
The Role of Private Investment and Community Support
The transformation of Inlet Square Mall stands as a testament to the effectiveness of private investment in driving local economic development. Paramount Development Corporation’s commitment to this project demonstrates how capital, when directed with a clear vision, can breathe new life into commercial properties and create enduring value for communities. This private sector leadership, coupled with supportive local governance, creates an environment where businesses can thrive and innovation is encouraged.
The proactive engagement of the local Council in facilitating the redevelopment underscores the importance of a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors. By taking steps to assure the redevelopment, the Council signaled a clear commitment to fostering a favorable business climate, which can be crucial for attracting new ventures and retaining existing ones.
More Than Just Stores: A Community Hub Reborn
Modern mall redevelopments often go beyond simply filling empty storefronts. They aim to create dynamic, mixed-use spaces that serve as community hubs, offering a blend of retail, dining, entertainment, and services. The renewed Inlet Square Mall is poised to become such a multifaceted destination, providing not just shopping opportunities but also spaces for social interaction and community engagement. This evolution reflects a broader trend in commercial real estate to create experiential environments that cater to the comprehensive needs of contemporary consumers and foster a sense of place.
The reimagining of Inlet Square Mall is a promising development for Murrells Inlet and a prime example of entrepreneurial spirit revitalizing a cornerstone of the community. As new businesses open their doors, they will contribute to job creation, boost local commerce, and reinforce the Grand Strand’s reputation as a dynamic region for investment and innovation. We encourage all residents to support these new ventures and stay engaged in the ongoing economic future of our beloved Myrtle Beach SC business community.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
