When Memphis native, University of Memphis alumni and entrepreneur Ethan Edwards began planning The Station—a new wine and spirits retail concept opening soon on White Station Road—he knew he wanted it to be more than just a store. He envisioned a place that not only reflected the city’s character, but actively contributed to it.
Now under construction in the former Bed Bath & Beyond, The Station will soon become what many expect to be the largest liquor store in Memphis, spanning more than 25,000 square feet. But beyond its size and sleek design, the project stands out for another reason: every element of it is being built by local talent.
The Largest Liquor Store in Memphis
Rather than bringing in national firms or chain-based partners, Edwards assembled an all-Memphis team to bring the space to life. The Station is being designed and built by Designshop, RKA Construction, Belz Enterprise, Jones Aur, Frank Balton Signs, and a full slate of local trade partners. The Station will be managed by Nick Scott, acclaimed Memphis chef and owner/executive chef of Alchemy in Midtown’s Cooper Young neighborhood.
“It was important to us that this project pour back into Memphis from the start...This isn’t just a place to shop—it’s a space created by the people who live here, work here, and want to see this city thrive.”
That local-first philosophy doesn’t stop with construction. The Station is also partnering with Memphis-based brands including breweries, distilleries and restaurants to give homegrown brands the spotlight they deserve.
The build-out has also benefited from a smooth process with the City of Memphis’s building inspection team and fire marshal’s office. Edwards shares, “They’ve helped us move forward quickly and safely, and we’re grateful to have had such a collaborative experience with the city.”
But perhaps most meaningful to Edwards and his team is their early commitment to give back to youth athletic programs in the neighborhood. As a father of four with kids involved in sports, Edwards understands firsthand the impact these programs can have—not just on the field, but in shaping kids’ character, confidence, and sense of teamwork.
“Athletics teach values that carry kids through life, but I’ve also seen how much these programs struggle with funding. We want to be part of the solution.”
As part of its launch, The Station will begin contributing to nearby schools to help support youth teams and athletics programs. It’s a core part of the brand’s mission: be a good neighbor, invest locally, and create something Memphis can be proud of.
The Station is expected to open later this year.
This blog was written by Alex Shockey
Alex Shockey is the president and founder of Edit Media. A native Memphian, she is an avid reader, an active youth athletics coach, a world traveler, and loves spending time with her husband, three young boys, and their giant dog, Rudy.
