People seeking employment in the Jefferson County area—which has a bleak unemployment rate of over 11%--may wish to apply at two new restaurants located near the Arnold Mall. A 5,000 square foot building is being built in the Arnold Crossroads, in the same plaza as Wendy’s, McDonald’s, and Arby’s, and will be home to both a Starbucks coffee shop and a Panda Express restaurant.

Though locals have been able to travel to South County or Fenton to get their Starbucks fix, the area has not seen a Panda Express since it was removed from the restaurant was removed from the Crestwood mall several years ago. The business is sure to provide competition for local Chinese restaurants, such as Great Peking and Super China Buffet and may be a good source of employment.

The Starbucks store will also have a drive-thru window. While many residents are dismayed at even more chain restaurants coming into the area, others appreciate the business the two places are sure to drum up, as neither store can be found throughout the rest of the Jefferson County area.

Construction is expected to commence within the next sixty days, allowing the stores to be open by September. Job seekers should keep their eyes open around the area for employment signs, as well as follow the Jefferson County Leader.

Source: Jefferson County Leader, 4/28/11