Dallas, Texas, January 7, 2026
The Dallas business landscape is shifting as AT&T moves its headquarters to Plano and Neiman Marcus announces the closure of its flagship store. These developments are expected to impact the local economy, raising concerns about vacancies in downtown Dallas while presenting opportunities for revitalization. City officials are now focused on strategies to adapt and attract new businesses to the area as it undergoes this transformation.
Dallas Confronts Economic Shift as AT&T Heads to Plano and Neiman Marcus Closes
A Shifting Landscape
Dallas, Texas – The Dallas business landscape is undergoing significant transformations as AT&T announces its plans to move its global headquarters from downtown Dallas to Plano, while Neiman Marcus has confirmed the closure of its flagship store. These changes pose both challenges and opportunities for the local economy and reflect the resilience and adaptability of Dallas’s entrepreneurial spirit.
The relocation of AT&T and the closure of Neiman Marcus come amid ongoing discussions about downtown Dallas’s future. As local businesses grapple with these shifts, it becomes vital for city officials and community leaders to devise strategies that encourage growth and adaptation. In challenging times, Dallas’s entrepreneurial innovation could play a crucial role in revitalizing the urban core.
AT&T’s Move to Plano
AT&T has confirmed its decision to relocate its global headquarters from downtown Dallas to a 54-acre site in Plano, consolidating more than 10,000 employees onto a single campus located on Legacy Drive. The move is anticipated to be finalized by mid-2028. Company officials mentioned that the primary reason behind this decision is the necessity for increased space, something that downtown Dallas could not provide effectively. While city leaders had hoped to retain AT&T’s presence in the urban core, their unwillingness to compromise over space needs ultimately led to the decision. This relocation is, however, seen as potentially invigorating for the North Texas suburbs, with Plano’s Mayor emphasizing the anticipated innovation and growth it will bring to the Legacy district.
Neiman Marcus Flagship Closure
Alongside AT&T’s relocation, Neiman Marcus has confirmed that its downtown flagship store at 1618 Main Street will close on March 31, 2025. The closure comes as the result of a 99-year ground lease expiring and the inability to reach a new agreement with the landlord. Despite extensive efforts from city officials and local stakeholders to retain this iconic store—some even proposing to have the land donated to the city—Neiman Marcus described these initiatives as “highly unproductive.” The company is shifting its focus to its NorthPark Center store, which is undergoing a substantial $100 million renovation, illustrating a move towards enhancing its existing retail presence rather than expanding in downtown Dallas.
Impact on Downtown Dallas
The combined effects of AT&T’s move and Neiman Marcus’s closure represent significant losses for downtown Dallas, a sector striving to rejuvenate itself. The departure of these major players raises concerns over future vacancies and the economic vitality of the area. City officials, alongside business leaders, are now strategizing on attracting new tenants and businesses to fill the void left by these well-known establishments. Efforts may involve reimagining spaces and encouraging start-ups, which play a critical role in maintaining a vibrant downtown economy.
Background and Historical Context
AT&T has played a pivotal role in the Dallas economy since relocating its headquarters from San Antonio in 2008. Over the past decade, the company has made substantial investments in downtown Dallas, notably through the development of the Discovery District. This campus features public gathering spaces and an outdoor media screen aimed at enhancing community engagement. Neiman Marcus, founded in Dallas in 1907, has long been a cornerstone of the city’s retail scene, solidifying its presence in the heart of downtown for over a century. The impending closure of these storied institutions signals a critical juncture in Dallas’s economic and urban development narrative.
City’s Response and Moving Forward
Moving forward, the focus for Dallas will be on fostering a business-friendly environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation. Local leaders may look to reduce regulatory burdens, enabling small businesses to thrive amidst change. It will be crucial for the community to rally together, supporting efforts that can lead to economic revitalization in the wake of AT&T and Neiman Marcus’s transitions. Completing renovation projects and promoting unique local businesses could be essential steps in restoring downtown Dallas’s allure as a vibrant urban center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is AT&T’s plan regarding its downtown Dallas properties?
AT&T has not disclosed future plans for the three buildings it owns and a fourth it leases in downtown Dallas. The company declined to say whether it will sell or keep the buildings.
Will Neiman Marcus consider reopening its downtown Dallas store in the future?
Neiman Marcus has stated that efforts to keep the downtown Dallas store open have been “highly unproductive” and has confirmed the closure effective March 31, 2025. The company plans to focus on its NorthPark Center location, where a $100 million renovation is underway.
How will these closures affect downtown Dallas?
The departure of AT&T and the closure of Neiman Marcus are significant blows to downtown Dallas, which has been striving to revitalize its urban core. City officials and business leaders are now focusing on strategies to attract new tenants and businesses to the area to mitigate the impact of these departures.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| AT&T’s Relocation | Moving its global headquarters from downtown Dallas to Plano, consolidating over 10,000 employees onto a 54-acre campus by mid-2028. |
| Neiman Marcus Closure | Flagship store at 1618 Main Street closing effective March 31, 2025, following the expiration of a 99-year ground lease and inability to reach a new agreement with the landlord. |
| Impact on Downtown Dallas | Significant vacancies in the central business district, prompting city officials and business leaders to focus on strategies to attract new tenants and businesses to the area. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
