2024 Spotlight: Discover the 12 Most Exciting Business Launches

MESA, AZ – March saw the exciting soft opening of BoSa Donuts at The Wells, drawing significant attention from the local community. Long lines formed outside as residents eagerly awaited the chance to sample the new deep-fried delicacies. Among the patrons was Taylor Yon, who arrived on a whim, and Sadie Barnum, who expressed her enthusiasm, excited to trade her early workout for a sweet treat.

In the same month, Red Star Vapor marked a milestone with the opening of its 50th store in Edison Pointe. CEO Josh Clikeman expressed excitement over the expansion, while District Manager Debra Garcia highlighted their superior customer service as a key differentiator from existing competitors in the area. The company has been operational since 2014, solidifying its presence in the industry.

June ushered in the soft opening of Vero Chicago Pizza, located at 19975 N. John Wayne Parkway. Kitchen Manager Daniel Mejia, whose family owns the franchise, described the long wait for the restaurant as worthwhile. The menu features 18 specialty pizzas inspired by iconic Chicago landmarks, including the Wrigley Field pizza topped with sausage and Italian beef. Although the establishment does not offer dine-in options, it accommodates takeaway orders daily from noon to 9 p.m.

Trulieve has announced plans to open the city’s first legal cannabis dispensary on January 2, 2025. Construction began in August for the dispensary, located 1,200 feet away from Maricopa High School, following the resolution of earlier disputes with the Maricopa Unified School District. The Tallahassee-based company is also responsible for a sizable 64,000-square-foot grow facility in Phoenix.

November brought the much-anticipated opening of Wetzel’s Pretzels, located in the former Dickey’s Barbecue Pit inside Walmart. Following a brief remodeling period, the District Manager, Esmeralda Garcia, highlighted a bustling launch day, with sales at the Maricopa location leading Arizona that day.

In March, Nando’s Mexican Café debuted at Edison Pointe, offering a full bar alongside traditional Mexican fare, despite multiple delays in its launch.

After a five-year hiatus, Carl’s Jr. reopened its doors in July at John Wayne Parkway and Edison Road. The previous location closed in 2018, paving the way for the return of the popular burger chain.

The opening of Copa Mattress & Furniture in September marked Maricopa’s first store specializing in cooling mattresses. Located in Fry’s Marketplace, the 2,300-square-foot shop is managed by Bruce “Curly” Kiraly and his daughter Cody, with plans for transition as Curly nears retirement.

Harbor Freight Tools opened in November, catering to shoppers eager for competitive prices on a variety of tools, from table saws to car jacks. Customer reactions were positive, with some stating that the store is a welcomed improvement over its predecessor.

Another highlight of September was the opening of Cold Stone Creamery in Maricopa, achieving record sales for the franchise’s 45th Arizona location. Owner Luis Leon described the opening day experience as overwhelmingly positive, indicating high demand for their popular ice cream offerings.

After a decade-long hiatus, Farmer’s Restaurant reopened in September in Hidden Valley. Majority owner Jack Sulaiman revived the establishment in response to community demand, offering a quirky menu that includes unique dishes like prickly pear jalapeño wings and gyro burgers. The small venue seats 16 and offers free ice cream cones for kids.

In September, The Home Depot opened its long-awaited location on Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway, attracting enthusiastic shoppers. Many expressed excitement over the variety of products available, and local officials praised its potential for stimulating economic growth in the area.