Springtime is signaling more business news in Missoula. Multiple businesses had plans for moves and openings this spring, like Zootown Hardware & Garden and Betty V Vintage, but a new round of businesses have announced some news that we thought we'd highlight below.

A Business Moves to Missoula

Missoula has just gained another landscape design business. This one specializes in native plants. Bluestem says they are a team of "designers, gardeners and ecologists" and they integrate native plants into urban designs. You can get an idea of what their designs look like on their website and even see some cool "before and after" garden shots.

A Business Expands to Missoula

A metal recycling business based in Victor, Montana has added a location in Missoula on Whippoorwill Drive which is out by the Missoula Airport. In addition to recycling metals like copper and others that don't contain iron, they recycle electronics and appliances, too. They also take old vehicles.

A Business Hosts a Soft Opening in Missoula

And much of Missoula has been waiting for this restaurant to open--Elote Mexican Bar and Grille announced this week that they "couldn't wait any longer" and decided to do a soft open. According to a post on Instagram, they say that the liquor license isn't finalized yet but that they have food and mocktails, and to call for a reservation.

The Elote Mexican Bar & Grille Instagram account also teases a look inside the restaurant, located in the old Red Robin location in Southgate Mall. Photos show brightly colored murals with florals and depictions of Mexican culture. They also share a peek at their Tres Leche cake.

Stores Missoulians Want at Southgate Mall

With so many changes happening at Southgate Mall, we asked which stores Missoulians would love to see come to the mall, here's what they said:

Gallery Credit: Ashley

45 Missoula Businesses That Opened, Changed Ownership, Expanded, or Changed Location

Yes, there has been a lot of change with Missoula businesses since 2020. Here is an idea of the business growth that has taken place.

Gallery Credit: Ashley Warren