Next Chapter Begins: EO Acquires Former Food City Site to Spark Community Revitalization

EO Companies (EO) has officially acquired two key properties off Interstate 81’s Exit 17 in Washington County—marking the next chapter in its ongoing work to transform Southwest Virginia through strategic redevelopment that strengthens community wellbeing, connection, and opportunity.

The newly acquired sites include the former Food City building, a 45,000-square-foot commercial structure on approximately five acres, as well as an adjacent one-acre outparcel. Both properties are located near the EO Regional Workforce and Child Development Hub, which opened in 2024 and has since gained national attention for its innovative, integrated approach to workforce development and early childhood care.

With this strategic acquisition, EO intends to build on the Hub’s success and continue transforming the region through the development of new community facilities and assets that enhance the quality of life for all residents. The organization’s long-term goal is to continue making the region the best place to live, work, and raise a family by growing local talent, attracting new residents, and creating more reasons for people to stay and thrive in the region.

“We believe this area holds immense potential as a catalyst for community impact,” said Travis Staton, President and CEO of EO Companies. “By investing in properties that are both highly visible and centrally located, we’re creating new opportunities to strengthen regional belonging, connectedness, and wellbeing.”

In the coming months, EO will conduct a regional assessment of existing community assets and identify gaps these properties might fill—particularly in areas related to social connection, placemaking, recreation, and civic engagement. This work will be guided by listening to the community and actively involving residents and partners in shaping the future of the site. At the same time, EO is beginning to convene public and private partners to build the collaborative support and raise the capital needed to bring the project to life.

The announcement comes ahead of EO’s upcoming nexEO event, set for Oct. 2–3, which will convene stakeholders from across Southwest Virginia to “design what’s next, together.” The future use of the newly acquired properties will be part of the conversation as EO works to align regional voices around shared priorities and bold action.

More information on the assessment process and plans for the site will be shared in the coming months.