As the year wrapped up, December brought a mix of uncertainty, transition, and local business insight across New Hampshire. From stalled redevelopment plans in Concord to the impending closure of a longtime Merrimack employer, these were the stories readers spent the most time with last month.
1. Steeplegate Mall’s Future Shifts as Owner Seeks Retail Tenants
The long anticipated redevelopment of Concord’s Steeplegate Mall shifted course again in December. After years of planning a large mixed use project that included hundreds of housing units, owner Onyx Partners is now marketing the existing mall space to retail and office tenants.
Listings for “Steeplegate Crossing” show eleven available spaces inside the current structure, which still houses JCPenney, Altitude Trampoline Park, and Zoo Health Club. Legal and logistical barriers continue to complicate the site’s future. Former tenants like Hatbox Theater say the instability forced early closures and eroded trust, while nearby businesses report ongoing challenges tied to the mall’s current condition.
City leaders and neighboring property owners expressed frustration, but also cautious hope that new tenants could bring some activity back to the corridor.
2. Anheuser-Busch to Close Merrimack Facility in Early 2026
Anheuser-Busch confirmed it will close its Merrimack brewery and event center in early 2026, ending more than 50 years of operations in the town. The decision affects roughly 124 local employees and is part of a broader restructuring effort across the company’s U.S. facilities.
While Anheuser-Busch says impacted workers will be offered relocation options or severance packages, town officials highlighted the broader economic impact. The facility contributes significant sewer revenue and property taxes.
State and local leaders called the closure disappointing and pledged support for affected workers. Attention is now turning to what comes next for the property, though many residents are still processing the news.
3. How V12 Marketing Helps Businesses Build Smarter Marketing Systems
Based in New Hampshire, V12 Marketing operates a strategy-first approach to help businesses build more effective marketing systems.
The agency emphasizes deep upfront discovery, transparency, and collaboration, offering services that range from design, web services, and ongoing support. Its work is complemented by the V12 Marketing Insights Blog, which explores evolving trends in SEO, digital performance, AI, and advertising with a practical lens.
The piece also highlighted V12 Marketing’s partnership with the Concord Sentinel, rooted in a shared focus on supporting local businesses and strengthening the regional digital ecosystem.
See You Next Month!
Whether it was stalled development, a major employer preparing to exit, or a closer look at how local companies are adapting, December’s top stories reflected a region navigating change while searching for stability and direction.
If you have a story to share, contact us today!
