Starkville’s Business Landscape Undergoes Changes: Closures and New Beginnings
Starkville is buzzing with the news of significant retail changes as long-established entities close their doors while new ventures prepare to open. It’s a mix of **nostalgia and excitement** for what’s to come. Let’s dive into the latest updates shaping our community!
Farewell to Badcock Home Furniture
After more than a century of service, Badcock Home Furniture & More is bidding a heartfelt goodbye to Starkville and numerous locations across the nation. The store, located at 416 Hwy. 12, is showcasing store closing signs and slashing prices with discounts reaching up to **70% off**. Founded back in **1904** by Henry Stanhope Badcock in Florida, the W.S. Badcock Corporation has been a staple in retail across the Southeast.
Unfortunately, this iconic furniture chain has begun the liquidation process for its 380 stores in states including Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. The recent acquisition by Conn’s, another American furniture chain, did not go as planned. Conn’s filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2024, leading to the announcement that all stores, including Badcock locations, would close by **October 31**.
For those in the market for some last-minute furniture deals, the Starkville location is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
A New Vision: Four Felines & Co.
While the community says goodbye to a longstanding retailer, Starkville is welcoming a new store, Four Felines & Co., set to open at 206 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive W. in the coming weeks. The owner, Mia Quinn, is excited to dive back into the world of retail. With a background rooted in the industry—having grown up around her grandparents’ department stores in Eupora—Mia is ready to infuse Starkville with a fresh take on fashion.
Four Felines & Co. will specialize in women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories, showcasing vibrant styles that reflect the unique fashion sense of Mia’s family. “I have five children, three of whom are teenage girls,” she shared. “I want to embrace everyone’s uniqueness and what they love. I will not be catering to one style of clothing. I will offer many!” This new shop promises a delightful array of clothing that caters to various tastes and preferences.
Exciting Expansion at Vace Clothing
In other retail news, Vace Clothing is also making moves in Starkville. The popular store, located at 500 Russell St., Suite 30, is expanding into the next unit. Details of the expansion will be shared soon, indicating that Starkville’s fashion scene is growing.
Celebrating Community Health
On a different note, the Ultimate Care Medical Clinic will host its ribbon-cutting ceremony next week. The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. on October 2 at 900 Stark Road. This clinic aims to support the community with essential health services.
Art Walk in Columbus
And just a short drive away, there’s the annual **Art Walk** in Columbus this weekend! Local artists will showcase their work downtown on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy art and meet local creators.
As Starkville experiences these changes, it’s a reminder of the dynamic nature of our business landscape. While the community bids farewell to some cherished establishments, there is excitement about new ventures that will contribute to growth and diversity.
