Ron Sturgeon, owner of RDS Real Estate, is set to open Boxes at Sublett, a retail center constructed from shipping containers, in South Arlington, Texas, in summer 2026. The project aims to provide affordable retail space for micro-enterprises and hobbyists, addressing the challenges small business owners often encounter when launching new ventures.
Boxes at Sublett will consist of approximately 30 shipping containers converted into small retail spaces. This approach, which has gained popularity in cities like Nashville, Kansas City, Las Vegas, and Wesley Chapel, Florida, allows for lower construction costs and, consequently, more affordable rents for tenants. "I'm especially excited about Boxes at Sublett because it will bring extra-small retail spaces for micro-enterprises that are not available anywhere in Tarrant County to an innovative community like Arlington with its many attractions," said Sturgeon.
This is not Sturgeon's first shipping container development. His previous projects include Box Office Warehouse Suites in the Fort Worth Design District, built using more than 120 shipping containers, and Mouser Self-Storage in Alvarado. In 2022, Sturgeon even built his own 3-story home using shipping containers, which features energy-efficient design and amenities such as a temperature-controlled 9-car garage and a pool.
The new retail center is located at 5100 W. Sublett Road, adjacent to Sublett Center, a traditional retail center also owned by RDS Real Estate. Sublett Center is anchored by a Salon & Spa Galleria, a franchise that provides small, luxurious salon suites for independent beauty and wellness professionals. This model, like Boxes at Sublett, was designed with small business owners in mind.
Sturgeon expressed frustration with the lengthy approval process required by the city of Arlington, which took four years. "The current codes and processes are so restrictive that they can become a real barrier, especially for entrepreneurs who don't have the resources to invest so much time and money in a process with no guarantee of success," he said. Despite these challenges, Sturgeon is pleased that the grand opening is now in sight.
Boxes at Sublett will cater to micro-businesses, offices, and hobbyists looking for a professional presence. RDS Real Estate, which leases retail, office, warehouse, industrial, and multi-use space in Tarrant County, sees this development as a way to support "mom and pops" and foster local entrepreneurship. For more information about Boxes at Sublett or other commercial properties, contact RDS Vice President Jim Eaton at (817) 439-3224 or visit RDSRealEstate.com.
