Aplos Announces the Launch of Its Third Location in Oxford, Marking a Milestone in Its 10-Year Growth Plan
06/17/2025, Jackson, Mississippi // PRODIGY: Feature Story //
Aplós, the Mediterranean restaurant known for its fresh ingredients and strong community values, has announced the opening of its third location in Oxford, Mississippi, slated for late summer 2026. This new venue represents a pivotal step in the brand's growth, marking its first out-of-town expansion and the start of a 10-year vision to scale across the Southeastern United States.
The Oxford location will be built outside the town square, a strategic move aimed at serving both the city's growing local population and the influx of students from nearby universities. Founder and executive chef Alex Eaton explains, 'Oxford is a vibrant college town, but its growth has outpaced the infrastructure around the square. We saw an opportunity to be part of the community where people live, study, and spend their weekends, not just where they party.'
The decision to expand to Oxford was not made lightly. It followed careful planning, community engagement, and groundwork to ensure Aplós doesn't just arrive but truly belong to the community. Eaton has already met with local officials and planners to understand how Aplós can contribute meaningfully to the area. 'For me, it's not enough to have good food and a good-looking brand,' Eaton says. 'We want to be woven into the community fabric, partnering with schools, giving students work experience, and showing up where it matters.'
This emphasis on local connection is part of what Eaton calls the 'recipe for the brand.' Inspired by his years working in the fine dining kitchens of New Orleans and his Lebanese heritage, Aplós combines Mediterranean simplicity with Southern hospitality. However, Eaton believes that a healthy business starts with people. 'Before we grow, we have to grow our executive team, our culture, our values,' he says. 'You can't build a restaurant in a new city if the foundation is not rock solid.'
Oxford will be the third Aplós location, following successful openings in Jackson and Ridgeland, Mississippi. The new location will sit alongside key community spaces, a high school, a movie theater, and new student apartment beds, giving it direct access to a mix of families, students, and young professionals. 'This is not about replicating a chain,' Eaton says. 'Each location of Aplós should feel like its own thing. That's how we avoid becoming just another brand.'
The long-term plan is ambitious. Eaton and his team are eyeing 10 Aplós locations in 10 years, with targeted growth in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and eventually Arkansas and Texas. 'We are focused on what I call 'community-centric development,'' says Eaton. 'If we are going to grow, it's got to be in places where we can be more than a restaurant. We need to be a job creator, a support system, a gathering spot.'
As the brand expands, Aplós will continue to invest in business coaching, internal leadership development, and youth employment programs. The company already works with high schools and plans to collaborate with hospitality colleges to offer credit-earning internships. 'Growth is one of our core values,' says Eaton. 'If you're not growing, whether as a dishwasher or a regional manager, you are probably in the wrong place.'
At its core, the Oxford expansion is a litmus test. 'Back home, people support us because they know me,' Eaton says. 'Oxford is different. People don't care who I am; they will judge us by our product, our team, and how we show up in their community. That's what makes this so real.'
If all goes according to plan, the Oxford launch will be the start of something much bigger than just another restaurant. It will be the blueprint for how Aplós grows, with integrity, intentionality, and local roots firmly planted in every community it joins.
Media Contact
Name: Elizabeth Lanza
Email: [email protected]
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Associated Press
11 hours ago
- Associated Press
Mississippi partners with tech giant Nvidia for AI education program
The state of Mississippi and technology giant Nvidia have reached a deal for the company to expand artificial intelligence training and research at the state's education institutions, an initiative to prepare students for a global economy increasingly driven by AI, Gov. Tate Reeves announced Wednesday. The memorandum of understanding, a nonbinding agreement, between Mississippi and the California-based company will introduce AI programs across the state's community colleges, universities and technical institutions. The initiative will aim to train at least 10,000 Mississippians using a curriculum designed around AI skills, machine learning and data science. Mississippi now joins Utah, California and Oregon, which have signed on to similar programs with Nvidia. 'This collaboration with Nvidia is monumental for Mississippi. By expanding AI education, investing in workforce development and encouraging innovation, we, along with Nvidia, are creating a pathway to dynamic careers in AI and cybersecurity for Mississippians,' Reeves said. 'These are the in-demand jobs of the future — jobs that will change the landscape of our economy for generations to come. AI is here now, and it is here to stay.' The agreement does not award any tax incentives to Nvidia, but Reeves said the state would provide funding for the initiative. Still, he did not foresee having to call a special legislative session in order to pay for it. Reeves said officials and Nvidia were still determining the exact dollar figure the project would require, but the state would spend as much as it took to reach its goal of training at least 10,000 Mississippians. Some of the funding may come from $9.1 million in grants to state institutions of higher learning through the Mississippi AI Talent Accelerator Program, which Reeves announced last week. Nvidia designs and supplies graphics processing units (GPUs), and the Mississippi program will focus on teaching people to work with GPUs. The company has seen growing demand for its semiconductors, which are used to power AI applications. Now the world's most valuable chipmaker, Nvidia announced in April that it will produce its AI supercomputers in the United States for the first time. Louis Stewart, head of strategic initiatives for Nvidia's global developer ecosystem, said the Mississippi program is part of a larger effort to bolster the United States' position as the global leader in artificial intelligence. 'Together, we will enhance economic growth through an AI-skilled workforce, advanced research, and industry engagement, positioning Mississippi as a hub for AI-driven transformation to the benefit of its communities.' ___ This story was originally published by Mississippi Today and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press.
Associated Press
18 hours ago
- Associated Press
Why More North Tonawanda Homeowners Are Choosing Proza Tree Service for Their Tree Care Needs?
Proza Tree Service is a trusted, locally owned company based in North Tonawanda. The company is committed to providing reliable and professional tree care across Western New York. They bring years of experience to ensure safe service with a focus on customer satisfaction. It has helped them build an unmatched reputation. North Tonawanda, NY - The area is located between the Niagara River and the Erie Canal. That means the city has plenty of mature trees and green spaces. That tree-filled charm is great for curb appeal but requires expert care to keep properties safe and beautiful. That's why relying on a company that has local tree knowledge makes everything different. The team has established itself as the go-to option for homes throughout the city due to its reputation for local trust and dependable, reasonably priced service, preserving property values, and ensuring family safety. In addition to safeguarding people from hazardous branches and unsteady trees, their expert tree care preserves property values. 'We're not just here to remove trees. We're here to protect homes and families, preserving what makes this city beautiful,' says the company owner. Learn more about them at Proza Tree Service offers 24/7 emergency support, expert care, and the use of advanced equipment to handle any tree issue safely and efficiently. With free quotes and affordable pricing, homeowners get real value with every call. 'We had a tree down after a storm, and they were at our house within hours. I just couldn't ask for better service,' said an Erie County resident. By providing safe, reasonably priced, and skilled tree care services, Proza Tree Service has gained the trust of residents in North Tonawanda. They remain the best option for dependable tree care because of their years of experience and dedication to excellence. With glowing five-star reviews and trusted service, it's no wonder more locals turn to them. 'They treated our yard like their own - quick, clean, and kind,' added one happy customer. They offer expert tree removal, trimming, stump grinding, and fast emergency response to keep properties safe, clean, and beautiful. Each of their services plays a vital role in local tree maintenance. 'Our goal isn't just to cut trees but to care for them. Whether it's a removal or a pruning job, we make sure it's done with safety and long-term tree health in mind,' said the lead arborist. One of the top reasons why locals like this company is that they are available around the neighborhood during all kinds of tree emergencies. Other than North Tonawanda, the tree service company serves Erie County, Niagara County, and nearby areas. They are a reliable tree care company that understands the region's unique tree conditions and seasonal challenges. That local knowledge leads to quick, smart solutions. As one homeowner shared, 'When a big limb crashed during a storm, the team showed up fast and had the job done before lunch. I won't call anyone else.' The crew offers free quotes, expert consultations, and fast, flexible scheduling. Whether it's routine care or emergency help, they're just a call or click away. Connect with Proza Tree Service at About Proza Tree Service Proza Tree Service has won the trust of North Tonawanda homeowners with safe, affordable, and expert tree care. Their customized and on-demand service keeps tree owners at ease. Location: Media Contact Company Name: Proza Tree Service Contact Person: David Prozapas Email: Send Email Phone: 716-535-0865 Address:4639 Kriston Ln City: North Tonawanda State: NY 14120 Country: United States Website: Source: King PR
Associated Press
18 hours ago
- Associated Press
Fontana's Timber Pros Tree Service Earns Top Ratings for Reliable, Customer-Focused Tree Care
Timber Pros Tree Service, based in Fontana, CA, just landed a top rating across the board. Folks in Fontana already knew the name but now? It's official. Timber Pro Tree Service is making waves for all the right reasons. Whether it's a storm hit or yard needs refreshing, this local crew delivers. Fast. Safe. No surprises. For being reliable, responsive, and genuinely easy to work with, locals showing their love online and offline, giving them top ratings. Not just for routine tree trimming or emergency removals, Timber Pros Tree Service has become the go-to team for anyone needing honest, quality tree service of any kind. To learn more visit their website at: Serving Fontana and Beyond Rooted right here in Fontana, California, Timber Pros Tree Service operates all around California. They deliver expert level of craftsmanship to Ontario, Rialto, Riverside, San Bernardino, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, Lakewood, Chino, Jurupa Valley, Colton, Bloomington, Loma Linda, Highgrove, Muscoy, Grand Terrace, Corona, and so on. Whether it's a regular tree pruning or massive tree crash, in both cases Timber Pros Tree Service is at your service with their certified arborists and experienced tree doctors, making you feel safe and sound. They not only take care of all of your tree hassles but also leave your property neat and clean. The best part is , each and every project no matter how big or small it is, they handle it with utter professionalism, making them more competent and trustworthy. Additionally, every service is customizable while maintaining the company standards and safety precautions. What Makes Them Stand Out Earning praises like 'life-savers' or 'worth every penny' from Fontana homeowners can't happen accidentally. Ask Maria Rordriguez over near Sierra Lakes: 'After that nasty windstorm last month? My giant oak split right over the driveway. Called Timber Pros Tree Service at 7.00 A.M. By noon, it was gone and didn't get a single scratch on my pavement. They even mulched the branches! True professionals, I would say!' It's not just the quality of their work that gets noticed—it's how they do business. Timber Pros Tree Service puts a lot of value on communication and treating customers with respect. Every job starts with a clear quote and ends with a clean yard. Homeowners often mention how stress-free the whole experience is. Community Involvement & Eco-Friendly Approach Timber Pros Tree Service not only care about trees but they care about the community and the planet. They take the time to recycle wood when possible, and dispose of debris the right way. To avoid noise pollution during projects, they keep noise and disruption to a also helped out with local cleanup efforts after windstorms, and even volunteered time at parks and public spaces over the past few years. Their team takes pride in keeping Fontana's green spaces safe, tidy, and beautiful. Recognition & Ratings Timber Pros Tree Service has earned consistent 5-star ratings on Google and other platforms thanks to satisfied clients who appreciate their dependable, straightforward service. From first-time customers to long-time clients, reviews highlight the same strengths: fast response times, no-nonsense estimates, and work done safely and thoroughly. This growing list of positive feedback shows that the team's hard work and friendly approach are really resonating with Fontana homeowners. 'We treat every yard like it's our own,' said the company's owner. 'People trust us with their property, and that's not something we take lightly. We focus on doing the job right, keeping people safe, and leaving things better than we found them.' About Timber Pros Tree Service Timber Pros Tree Service is a locally owned business who are well aware of the local weather and obstacles. They serve both residential and commercial clients throughout Fontana and the surrounding areas. Their crew handles a full range of services— tree trimming, pruning, removals, stump grinding, lot clearing, crown raising, crown reduction, palm tree skinning, emergency tree services, and even storm damage cleanup. Using the right equipment and a hands-on approach, they combine professional skill with neighborhood know-how. If you're in Fontana and need tree work—whether it's a quick trim, a stubborn stump, or a tree leaning the wrong way—Timber Pros Tree Service is ready to help. Get in touch, ask questions, and see why so many locals are recommending them. Location: Media Contact Company Name: Timber Pros Tree Service Contact Person: Tovar Email: Send Email Phone: 909-587-3953 Address:7405 Cherimoya Court Ct City: Fontana State: CA 92336 Country: United States Website: Source: King PR
