Retail Realities in Boomtown Forney: A Deep Dive

Forney, Texas, continues to surge forward—transforming from a quietsuburb into one of the nation’s most dynamic retail destinations. Here's what’sfueling the boom and why it matters for real estate professionals.

1. Explosive Population Growth

• Between 2020 and 2023, Forney’s population surged by an estimated 51%, one of the fastest increases   nationally.‍
• By July 2024, the city's population reached approximately 38,572, up from 23,455 in 2020—a 64.2%     increase.
• Forney’s current population is around 43,196, reflecting an ongoing annual growth rate near 9.8%.
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2. A Vast and Growing Trade Area withUntapped Retail Demand

• Forney serves a primary trade area of over 65,000 residents, projecting to approach 100,000 by  2025
• Annual retail demand stands at  roughly $876 million, yet the area currently “leaks” around $431     million, signaling strong opportunity for new offerings.

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3. Major Retail and Mixed-Use Projectsin the Works

• Village at Gateway: A transformative 120-acre     mixed-use development, anchored by:
   
  • Target (144,000 sq ft)
   
  • H-E-B (130,000 sq ft)
   
  • Home Depot (135,000 sq ft)
   
  • Plus 120,000 sq ft of additional      retail, service, and restaurant space.‍
 
• Development Status: Groundbreaking took place in late 2024, with construction well underway.‍
• Forney Marketplace Lot 2A: A planned 27,529 sq ft   multitenant retail center just north of US Highway 80. City officials have  approved the development and shared site access plans.
• Forney Marketplace Lot 2E: Under consideration is a 30,450     sq ft multitenant center adjacent to existing anchors like Kohl’s and Kroger

4. Infrastructure & PlanningSupport Expansion

• Gateway Master Plan spans over 2,000 acres in Forney     and includes:
   
  • Residential neighborhoods (1,850 single-family homes + multifamily communities)
   
  • Commercial, medical, entertainment, and hospitality zones
   
  • A soon-to-be-constructed retail plaza and entertainment hub.
 
• Connectivity & Access: Major arterials like US Hwy 80,     FM 548, and Gateway Boulevard are built or underway, improving traffic     flow and accessibility for retail areas.

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Why This Matters for Retail RealEstate in DFW

1. Powerful Demographics: A young, growing populous with rising incomes and spending needs makes Forney a magnetic retail investment zone.
2. First-Mover Advantage: With significant demand still unmet, early retail entrants can capitalize on strong performance and brand loyalty.
3. Anchor Magnets: Development hubs like Village at Gateway will draw regional traffic, boosting visibility and commercial     viability.
4. Strategic Community Planning: Mixed-use integration ensures that retail sits at the heart of thriving neighborhoods, not edge zones.
5. Best Timing for Tenants and  Investors: As leasing activity heats up, being positioned now in Forney means prime opportunities and favorable terms.

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