In light of economic conditions, the announcement of a new business opening its doors in Troy is certainly welcoming news.

Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford announced Wednesday that Tractor Supply, a company that makes its home in rural communities across the country, will move to Troy where Goody’s was once housed in Southland Village Shopping Center.

“We’re always pleased to get new retail because retail is what drives our economy,” Lunsford said. “Its sales tax pays the fire department, police officers and keeps the city moving.”

Marsha Gaylard, president of the Pike County Economic Development Corporation, said discussions have been underway with the company for around two years.

“They have been looking at Troy for a couple of years,” Gaylard said. “They contacted us a couple years ago and were looking for a site at that time, but they didn’t do anything.”

But, through Sharp Realty, located in Birmingham, Tractor Supply found a new home at the shopping center.

“We started talking to Tractor Supply when we felt like Goody’s was in trouble,” said Jeff Werscner, director of leasing with Sharp Realty and Management.

Werscner said Tractor Supply was interested in Troy for its location.

“I think it chose Troy beause it’s a regional hub serving that region of Alabama,” Werscner said. “They strategically place their stores. Troy fits their model for a retail trade center.”

And, even though the company chose Troy, Tractor Supply will be welcomed with open arms.

“Tractor Supply is exciting. They are a good company,” said John Schmidt, president of the Pike County Economic Development Board of Directors.

Those who haven’t visited a Tractor Supply Store shouldn’t be fooled by it’s name.

“They’ve got great products for the farmer and for the average person, too,” Schmidt said. “To me, I think it will be a great fit for our community.”

Werscner agreed the company offers something that anyone can enjoy.

“It has a large nursery area, apparel, and has an emphasis on pets and livestock, so it’s kind of a catch all store,” Werscner said.

Gaylard said the business may also have some merchandise that Hendricks Home Center used to carry.

“This company will probably fill in that gap with some of the merchandise Hendricks is not going to carry any longer,” Gaylard said.

Werscner said the business plans on opening its doors during the Christmas season this year.

Gaylard said she is unsure just how many jobs this will bring to the area, but the company is a large business.

“At this point, I don’t know how many employees they’re actually going to hire, but I feel like it will be quite a few,” Gaylard said.

Though Tractor Supply will be in Goody’s former location, Gaylard said this is not the replacement for that business.

“This is not a replacement for Goody’s,” Gaylard said. “We’re still working on other potential clients for the center.”