What's Happening?
Franciscan Square in Steubenville, Ohio, is set to expand its culinary offerings with the upcoming opening of several new food and drink establishments. These additions include Buffalo Wild Wings Go, Jamba, Auntie Anne’s, and Cinnabon. The new businesses
are anticipated to open their doors in September. This development follows the successful launch of Scooter’s Coffee at the same location in June, which has already seen a strong community response. Franchisee Dan Van noted that the return of students to Franciscan University is expected to further increase traffic and activity in the area. The Buffalo Wild Wings Go concept will focus on take-out orders, distinguishing itself from a traditional sports bar by not serving alcohol. Jamba, Auntie Anne’s, and Cinnabon will operate as a tri-brand location, allowing customers to order from any of the three brands with a single transaction. The aim is to provide flexible operating hours, including late-night options, to accommodate various community members and students.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of these new food and drink options at Franciscan Square is significant for the local economy and community in Steubenville. It represents an expansion of consumer choices and convenience, potentially attracting more visitors to the area and boosting local commerce. For Franciscan University students, these establishments will provide additional dining and social options, enhancing their campus experience and contributing to a vibrant university environment. The focus on flexible hours, including late-night service, caters to a broader demographic, including shift workers, which can foster a more inclusive and accessible local business landscape. The investment in these new businesses also signals confidence in the economic vitality of Steubenville, potentially encouraging further development and job creation in the service sector. The 'take-and-go' model of Buffalo Wild Wings Go reflects evolving consumer preferences for convenience and efficiency, which could set a trend for future retail and food service developments in the region.
What's Next?
The new establishments, including Buffalo Wild Wings Go, Jamba, Auntie Anne’s, and Cinnabon, are all slated to open in September. Following their launch, the focus will likely be on integrating these businesses into the existing Franciscan Square ecosystem and monitoring community reception. Franchisee Dan Van's emphasis on flexible operating hours suggests a proactive approach to meeting customer demand, which may involve adjusting schedules based on initial feedback and traffic patterns. The success of these new ventures could pave the way for further commercial development in Franciscan Square and the broader Steubenville area, potentially attracting other national or regional brands. The return of Franciscan University students will be a key factor in the initial performance of these businesses, and their patronage will be crucial for sustained growth. Local residents and students can anticipate increased dining variety and convenience in the coming months.
Beyond the Headlines
The expansion of Franciscan Square with these new food and drink options highlights a broader trend of mixed-use developments becoming community hubs, especially in areas adjacent to educational institutions. The strategic placement of these businesses near Franciscan University aims to capitalize on the student population, creating a symbiotic relationship between the commercial development and the academic community. The 'tri-brand' model for Jamba, Auntie Anne’s, and Cinnabon reflects an innovative approach to retail, maximizing space and offering diverse choices under one roof, which could become a blueprint for future multi-brand ventures in similar settings. This development also underscores the importance of local amenities in attracting and retaining residents, contributing to the overall quality of life in Steubenville. The absence of alcohol at Buffalo Wild Wings Go indicates a tailored business model that aligns with the specific demographics and community values of the area, potentially appealing to a family-friendly or student-focused clientele.
