The Buchanan Realty Group CLICK HERE is a boutique commercial real estate firm that specializes in all aspects of commercial leasing to clients across the Southeast.

With attention to detail, and client oriented goals, the team, under the direction of principal agent, Brandon Buchanan, successfully represents owners & tenants who want to see growth in their prospective investments or businesses.

BRG agents are leaders in the investment sales and acquisition department, and pride themselves in their abilities to successfully negotiate the best deals for their clients. The team has represented clients focused on retail, hospitality, C-store, medical, industrial, and multi-family sectors.

‘Taco vs Pizza’ opening in former Green Frog Coffee location on South Highland Avenue

A new dining concept called Taco vs Pizza is coming to South Jackson, taking over the former Green Frog Coffee & Grill location on South Highland Avenue.

Green Frog announced the closure of its South Jackson site earlier today, with operations ending January 10 due to profitability challenges. The company revealed that the building’s new tenant, Taco vs Pizza, is expected to open around mid-March 2026.

Described as bringing “a new and welcomed variety to the South Jackson community,” the restaurant promises a unique showdown between tacos and pizza favorites.

Details on the menu and ownership remain limited, but locals are already buzzing about the fresh addition to the area’s food scene.

End of an Era – Lara Coleman, John Nanney retiring from Jackson Energy Authority

Jackson Energy Authority is announcing the retirement of Lara Coleman, who serves as the senior vice-president of the Electric Division, and John Nanney, vice-president of Industrial Development.

Lara and John will retire December 31, 2025.

“Lara, coming to JEA with years of service within the industry (TVA) was a major reason for her being such a strong addition to our team,” Monte Cooper said. “We have been fortunate to have Lara at JEA for twenty-eight years serving in the roles of vice-president of Distribution, vice-president of Operations, and most recently three years as the Senior vice-president of the Electric Division.”

Monte Cooper is the president/CEO of Jackson Energy Authority.

“John has done a great job taking care of our key accounts for many years,” Monte Cooper said. “His heavy  involvement in industrial recruitment working with the Jackson Area Chamber and being a key member of Team Madison County has led to many successful projects for Jackson and Madison County.

“We wish both Lara and John the best in their retirements and are thankful for their years of service.”

Replacing Lara Coleman in her role is Hameen Harris, former vice-president of Engineering, while Jared Smith, an assistant in Industrial Development, replaces John Nanney.

Buc-ee’s pushes back Memphis-area, West Memphis stores by a year+

Fans of Buc-ee’s in the Mid-South will need to wait longer for new locations, as the popular travel center chain has pushed back its planned openings.

The first store in the Memphis area, located off Interstate 40 in Fayette County (northeast of the city), is now set to open in May 2027, according to a company spokesperson.

Meanwhile, the West Memphis, Arkansas, site, planned for the eastbound side of I-40 between Missouri and Seventh streets, won’t welcome customers until June 2028. The Arkansas Department of Transportation is handling road improvements, including widening a street and adding a traffic ramp.

Originally, both stores were expected to debut in 2026. The company has not provided details on the reasons for the delays.

Currently, Tennessee has just two Buc-ee’s locations, both along I-40: one in Crossville (east of Nashville) and another in Sevierville (near Knoxville and Pigeon Forge). Billboards along the interstate near the future Fayette County site remind drivers that the closest options are hundreds of miles away.

Known for its massive selection of fuel pumps, fresh food options, spotless restrooms, and beaver-themed merchandise, Buc-ee’s also offers competitive wages. The West Memphis location is projected to create 225 full-time jobs starting at $19 per hour (about $40,000 annually). To secure the project, city officials approved a $5 million incentive package, including land valued at $3.5 million and $1.5 million for infrastructure. Mayor Marco McClendon noted in 2024 that these costs would be recovered through a 3% tax on prepared foods and state gas tax reimbursements, with the city anticipating $3.1 million in annual tax revenue.

In Fayette County, a $15 million loan helped kick off construction on the Gallaway store following its 2024 groundbreaking, with local leaders estimating it will add $12 million yearly to the economy.

Flamin’ Yum Korean BBQ & Shabu House set to join The Columns III Development

JACKSON, TN – The growing Columns III development is adding an international sizzle to its lineup.  Flamin; Yum Korean Bbq & Shabu House has officially been slated to open in the newest phase of the premier West Tennessee retail hub.

The restaurant will be located at 17 Colonnade Blvd, Jackson, TN 38305, within the newly constructed Ming Shopping Center. This 12,300-square-foot strip is situated in the heart of The Columns Phase III, adjacent to the new Homewood Suites by Hilton and near the West Tennessee Bone & Joint Clinic.

What to Expect

Flamin’ Yum Korean BBQ & Shabu House will bring an upscale, modern, and interactive dining experience to Jackson, featuring:

Table-Side Grilling: Traditional Korean BBQ where guests cook premium marinated meats on built-in smokeless grills.

Shabu: Features Japanese hot pot where diners cook thinly sliced premium meats and vegetables in simmering broth at the table.

Cuisine Type: Comfort food with a focus on Korean and Japanese flavors. 

Growth in The Columns

The addition of Flamin’ Yum Korean BBQ & Shabu House marks a significant step in the Phase III expansion, which aims to blend lifestyle amenities with national and local brands.

With construction on the Ming Shopping Center progressing, Flamin’ Yum Korean BBQ & Shabu House is projected to open its doors in 2026, joining a variety of new retail and medical facilities in the 100-acre development.

The Buchanan Realty Group CLICK HERE is a boutique commercial real estate firm that specializes in all aspects of commercial leasing to clients across the Southeast.

With attention to detail, and client oriented goals, the team, under the direction of principal agent, Brandon Buchanan, successfully represents owners & tenants who want to see growth in their prospective investments or businesses.

BRG agents are leaders in the investment sales and acquisition department, and pride themselves in their abilities to successfully negotiate the best deals for their clients. The team has represented clients focused on retail, hospitality, C-store, medical, industrial, and multi-family sectors.