Forest Acres Economic Growth Catapults

Forest Acres Builds Momentum with String of Openings, Reinforcing Status as Columbia’s Premier Shopping and Dining Destination

The City of Forest Acres is experiencing a powerful wave of economic momentum in 2026, marked by a string of high profile business openings, continued private investment, and the largest redevelopment project in the city’s history on the horizon.

Leading the latest round of openings, Chopt Creative Salad Company has officially debuted its first South Carolina location at Trenholm Plaza.

Founded in 2001 in New York, Chopt has grown to more than 80 locations nationwide and is known for its chef driven, customizable salads and warm bowls. Its expansion into South Carolina, choosing none other than Forest Acres, further underscores the city’s reputation as a premier destination for nationally recognized brands.

“Forest Acres has become a magnet for best in class retailers and restaurants,” said Mayor Thomas Andrews. “We are seeing sustained interest from national and regional brands because of our strong demographics, central location, and a community that actively supports local business.”

At Cardinal Crossing, continued leasing success underscores that demand. Konnichiwa has leased approximately 5,807 square feet and brings a vibrant, Asian inspired steakhouse and sushi dining experience to the highly trafficked shopping center on Forest Drive. The family owned concept, founded in 2019, has rapidly expanded across North and South Carolina and is known for its energetic atmosphere, high quality sushi offerings, and a modern take on Japanese cuisine. The Forest Acres location will mark its third in the Midlands.

Also at Cardinal Crossing, West of Vine has opened as an upscale women’s clothing destination offering fashion, shoes, accessories, and swimwear. Owned and operated locally by small business owner Nancy Hull, who also launched Cottage and Vine, the boutique further enhances the development’s mix of experiential retail.

Ascend Studios is now fully leased at Cardinal Crossing as well, reflecting strong demand for boutique fitness and wellness concepts within the development.

The 60 million dollar Cardinal Crossing development, featuring 256 residential units and approximately 42,000 square feet of retail, has quickly become a cornerstone of the city’s economic growth, delivering a walkable, mixed use environment that continues to attract both residents and businesses.

Next door, at the Forest Park shopping center, Jimador Real introduces an elevated take on Mexican cuisine, while Tropical Smoothie Cafe adds to the area’s growing mix of national dining options.

Down the road, The Briar Patch children’s clothing boutique also opened this year, further enhancing the city’s strong mix of locally curated retail.

In April, Forest Acres also welcomed Truss Vet on Forest Drive, bringing a new urgent care for pet care model to the Midlands and expanding the city’s growing service sector. TrussVet is privately owned and operated and based in North Carolina. The Forest Acres location is also the company’s very first South Carolina based business.

Further strengthening the city’s healthcare offerings, the Medical University of South Carolina has broken ground on a new 4,500 square foot primary care practice on North Trenholm Road next to City Hall. The project brings new life to a site that has remained vacant since the 2015 flood and represents continued investment in essential services within the community.

Also along Forest Drive, The Honey Market is set to open later this summer near the gateway from Columbia. Local business owner Grace Berger says the new concept store will offer coffee, wine, gourmet provisions and high-end houseware with an atmosphere customers will find “elegant, cheeky and just the right amount of extra.” Berger’s concept will continue to complement the city’s blend of locally owned favorites.

Looking ahead, the momentum continues with the anticipated 100 million dollar redevelopment of the Richland Mall site, the largest economic development project in Forest Acres’ history. Spearheaded by Southeastern Development out of Evans, Georgia, the project is expected to deliver approximately 50,000 square feet of available retail, more than 350 luxury residential units, and a new destination Kroger Marketplace positioned at the gateway to Forest Acres and Columbia. Leasing of the available retail space is anticipated to begin later this year at the former Richland Mall.

The redevelopment will also feature a premier six acre public park led by the City of Forest Acres, creating a signature community space that further enhances quality of life and strengthens the area’s appeal to both residents and businesses. Delivery is anticipated between late 2027 and 2028.

Councilman and Mayor Pro Tem Haskell Kibler noted, “This level of sustained investment, both public and private, reflects the strength of the Forest Acres market and positions us for continued long term growth.”

Forest Acres’ success is driven by its highly desirable demographics, strong household incomes, high traffic corridors, and a proven ability to support both national brands and locally owned businesses. With a carefully planned approach to growth and redevelopment, the city continues to set the standard as Columbia’s premier shopping and dining destination.

“These continued wins, combined with transformative projects on the horizon, reinforce Forest Acres as one of the most dynamic and competitive markets in the region,” Mayor Andrews said.

With a robust pipeline of new businesses and continued investor interest, Forest Acres remains committed to fostering economic vitality while preserving the character and charm that define the community.

City of Forest Acres

The City of Forest Acres is a vibrant and independent municipality in South Carolina, known for its strong sense of community, responsive local government, and high quality of life. With a population of approximately 10,000 residents, Forest Acres offers a unique blend of established neighborhoods, thriving local businesses, and well-maintained public spaces. The city is committed to public safety, sustainability, and civic engagement, with services and amenities designed to meet the needs of residents and visitors alike. Forest Acres takes pride in its family-friendly events, efficient city services, and ongoing investments in infrastructure and community development.

For more information, visit www.forestacres.net or follow @ForestAcresSC on social media.