Retail Trade A growing economy and a diverse population with disposable income combine in Oklahoma City to create an environment that attracts major retail investment. With a strong corporate presence
leading the new energy landscape with innovative energy companies, such as internationally known GE Global Research, which chose Oklahoma City as the home of its latest $110 million oil and gas technology center (now part of Baker Hughes, a GE company). Hospitality
and residents with strong buying power, Oklahoma City generates 18% of the
Oklahoma City’s increasing status as a visitor destination contributes strongly to this sector’s growing employment and impact on the region. This is the fastest-growing segment of employment with over 73,000 employees in the region. Total travel spending in Oklahoma County alone is $2.4 billion and non- transportation spending in this sector has risen 35% since 2010. Logistics
state’s total sales tax revenue. The metro has also spawned significant retail businesses and is the headquarters of national retailers Hobby Lobby, the largest privately owned arts- and-crafts retailer in the world operating in 47 states; Orange Leaf, one of the fastest- growing private companies in America; and Sonic Drive-In, the largest chain of drive-in restaurants in the United States. The increasingly diversified economy is due largely to the city’s entrepreneurial streak
The city is becoming a popular spot for visitors, creating a demand in hospitality jobs..
There’s a reason the Greater Oklahoma City region is such a great place for logistics: Location. All major trade hubs and more than 411 million residents are within 1,800 miles of Oklahoma City. This makes it easy for businesses to quickly get the materials they need as well as ship out their products to customers.
and a business environment that enables company success. There is a strong partnership among business, government, civic leaders and economic development partners that have led to significant growth and a quality-of-life renaissance unlike any other location in the United States.
Whether locally-owned or a national chain, Oklahoma City has plenty of places to shop.
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