Spencer, IA (Northwestiowanow.com) — The city of Spencer’s retailer recruiter says there is more interest in 2025 than there was in 2024. Kyle Cofer says a hotel group that previously said “no”, is now “very” interested in a Spencer location.

Cofer told the city council Monday night that a hardware chain is now also considering Spencer if it could find a feasible location.

Multiple fast-food chains, a clothing store, and a small-concept grocery are willing to examine the community closer.

Cofer says there are three reasons for the renewed interest in Spencer for new retail outlets and restaurants: Menards, TJ Maxx, and existing fast food restaurants are outperforming what is expected in communities the size of Spencer; national chains have saturated the larger markets and are now willing to look at smaller cities; and the unfortunate flood has freed up available commercial space along the highway corridor.