TYLER, Texas, July 9, 2026 – Brookshire Grocery Co. (BGC) celebrated a major milestone Thursday with the groundbreaking of its newest Brookshire’s store in West Tyler. More than a new grocery store, the project represents a hometown investment built through local partnerships with businesses and community leaders to create a destination that is uniquely Tyler.
Company leaders, community members and local officials gathered at the future store site to commemorate the occasion, including Mayor Pro Tem Petra Hawkins. Construction is underway, with the new store anticipated to open in 2027.
“This groundbreaking represents a significant milestone for BGC — one that I know our founders, W.T. and Louise Brookshire, would be incredibly proud of,” said Jerry LeClair, Interim CEO for Brookshire Grocery Co. “For nearly 100 years, the mission and values they established have guided our company and continue to serve as the foundation for every decision we make. This new store is a continued commitment to the community that has supported us since 1928.”
The new Brookshire’s location will offer a modern grocery shopping experience, allowing BGC to meet the growing needs of customers, and will offer excellent service, high-quality fresh meats and produce, and amminities including Starbucks Coffee and a full-service pizza program. The store will also feature a patio, full-service bar and a Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue, representing the first expansion of the beloved Tyler institution. Stanley’s will prepare and smoke barbecue on site, offering customers the experience that has made it a local favorite.
Founded in 1960, Stanley’s is the oldest continuously operating family-owned barbecue restaurant in Tyler. Owned by Nick and Jen Pencis, the restaurant has earned a loyal following for its East Texas barbecue, including slow-smoked brisket, ribs, house-made sausage and its world-famous “Mother Clucker” chicken sandwich.
“Both BGC and Stanley’s have deep roots in Tyler,” LeClair said. “Together, we’ll create an experience that is uniquely East Texas and uniquely Tyler. We’re proud to partner with a local business that has become a true East Texas institution and give our customers another reason to gather, connect and enjoy a great meal together.”
Projects like this are made possible through strong partnerships. BGC extends its sincere appreciation to the City of Tyler for its partnership and collaboration throughout the planning and development of the project. The company also recognizes Tyler-based HGR Contractors for its outstanding leadership, craftsmanship and dedication. From the planning stages to completion next year, their team of contractors has remained committed to bringing the vision and mission of this new store to life. More than 90% of the subcontractors working on the project are based in East Texas, reflecting the strong local partnerships that have helped make the project possible.
By partnering with local companies like HGR and Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue, BGC continues its long-standing commitment to investing in East Texas businesses and strengthening the communities it serves.