Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Marcelo Marcos, the CEO of Impulso Developments, told Texas Border Business that they are a real estate investment company founded in 2018. It embarked on its first project in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), which involves significant commercial development in Pharr, Texas. He reported details of the company’s background, the specifics of the new project, and plans, as Marcelo shared.
Impulso Developments specializes in developing properties for national tenants, focusing on triple net leases and strategically located hard corner sites. Since its inception, the company has undertaken various projects across several states, including Michigan, Ohio, North Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, and Arizona.
According to Marcelo, the company’s decision to invest in the Rio Grande Valley came naturally. Marcelo, who resides in Monterrey, frequently visits South Padre and has been familiar with the region since childhood. Observing the area’s growth during these visits, the company focused on developing in Pharr and McAllen, betting on the region’s economic potential.
The new project in Pharr involves constructing a 10,000-square-foot building to house a Dollar Tree store, a well-known national discount retailer. This development is the first phase of a larger plan. The second phase next to the property will include a 5,000-square-foot quick-service restaurant (QSR) with a drive-through on an adjacent lot.
Victor Perez, president and CEO of Pharr EDC, discussed the efforts to bring businesses to Pharr. He commended the rapid advancement of the current project since his last meeting with the developers in Monterrey and attributed the success to the Impulso Development team’s readiness and dedication.
Impulso Developments follows a build-to-suit model, acquiring land with specific tenants in mind. Typically, they secure a Letter of Intent (LOI) from national tenants before purchasing the land, ensuring a ready occupant for their developments.
According to Marcelo, the prime location for this project was identified through Cxi, an online platform specializing in real estate intelligence. Impulso Developments utilized specific filters to narrow their search, ultimately finding this two-acre lot that met their criteria. The company’s effective use of Cxi’s platform was recognized last year when it received an intelligence award from Cxi.
Marcelo is an architect with 14 years of experience in the field. At 37 years old, Marcelo brings a wealth of knowledge and a forward-thinking approach to the company’s projects. He works alongside his partner, Andres Lankenau, who serves as the president of Impulso Developments. Together, they lead the company’s strategic initiatives and development projects.
Marcelo pointed out, “Today marks a significant milestone in our journey as we gather to celebrate the groundbreaking of our new Dollar Tree location in Pharr, Texas. This occasion is not just about constructing a new store; it represents our strength, hard work, and hope for the future.
We are navigating a complex economic landscape characterized by high interest rates, soaring construction costs, national tenant bankruptcies, store closures, and various market uncertainties that have tested the very core of our business in the commercial real estate industry. Despite these challenges, Impulso Developments has persevered and continues to thrive. Our growth is evidence of our commitment to our investors and the communities we serve.
We view the Rio Grande Valley as ideal for investment. Its rapid population growth, in some areas three times the national average, industrial nearshoring opportunities, and low commercial vacancy rates make it a strategic hub for development. We are proud to place our bet on the Rio Grande Valley, confident in its potential to foster sustainable development and community prosperity.
As we embark on this new chapter, let’s celebrate the spirit of enterprise, innovation, and community that defines us. The Dollar Tree at 701 West Nolana Loop is more than just a retail establishment; Our growth shows how dedicated we are to our investors and the communities we support. Thank you.”
The groundbreaking ceremony in Pharr, Texas, marks a significant milestone for Impulso Developments as they expand into the RGV. The project reflects the company’s commitment to cultivating regional economic growth through strategic commercial developments. The Dollar Tree project is the first step in their plan to develop more properties in Pharr and McAllen, contributing to economic prosperity. Several elected officials and key contributors were recognized during the event, including Commissioner Ricardo Medina in the representation of Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, Commissioner Michael Pacheco, and Pharr EDC Board Member Ray Perez.
