MARSHALL — Marshall’s business landscape is in flux, with familiar names closing, new projects breaking ground, and long-term developments inching forward. Marshall EDA Director Lauren Deutz recently provided updates on a number of properties and projects across the community.

Hardee’s and Taco John’s: Uncertain but Active
The closure of Hardee’s earlier this month stirred plenty of conversation, but Deutz said the building sale may open the door for new possibilities. “The interesting part for us is that the franchise was intact when the building sold,” she explained, noting that it is possible Hardee’s could reopen or a new business could take its place. The new owner, who is not local, has already reached out with questions about doing business in Minnesota.

Meanwhile, the former Taco John’s site is tied up in foreclosure. The property is in a one-year redemption period after being taken back by the bank. “We’ve had a lot of people interested in it,” Deutz said. “We’re confident that once we’re through that redemption next summer, we’ll be able to see some activity there.”

New Construction and Expansions
On East College Drive, Lockwood Motors is in the midst of a 19,000-square-foot addition that includes a new service drive, quick service pit, and Chevrolet showroom. The project is slated for completion in late spring or early summer 2026, bringing new jobs to the community.

Scooter’s Coffee, after years of planning, is nearing completion of its three-month buildout. The drive-thru only shop could open by late October or early November. Deutz said the project reflects changing consumer behavior. “We are seeing less sit-down type service. Scooter’s is a great example. You don’t need to go inside; you can just take the drive-through option.”

Borch’s has also completed its addition, expanding beyond retail to boost services like screen printing and embroidery. Bend Rite is finishing an expansion as well, adding a new laser that will give the company the largest cutting capacity of its kind in Minnesota.

Potential Cannabis Store
The former D’s Thai property may soon become one of Marshall’s first cannabis retailers. A South Dakota business owner who operates several medical cannabis stores in Sioux Falls is working through the state approval process to open at the site. Deutz said the owner has also expressed interest in potential future development on the larger lot.

Healthcare, Housing, and Community Growth
Marshall Dental Excellence is constructing a new clinic to replace its existing office, with a spring 2026 opening planned. The project allows the second-generation dental business to own its own facility.

Housing remains a key focus for the city. A private developer is bringing 104 new apartment units to Marshall across three buildings, complete with fitness rooms, a dog park, and other amenities. Leasing has already begun for the first units, which are nearing completion.

Other Updates

  • The Gym: Listed for sale but no confirmed changes. “We’re hopeful the business can remain open,” Deutz said.

  • Solugen: After delays, construction is now expected to ramp up in 2026 with commissioning anticipated in 2027 or early 2028.

Looking Ahead
Deutz said the city’s growth remains strong, even with challenges. “Construction costs are high, so we thought we’d see a slowdown, but we’re not,” she said. The EDA continues to prioritize two key issues for 2026: housing and daycare. “We can’t bring more businesses in if we don’t have those two things in the community.”