Local business owner Rob Stinson plans project on Debuys Road

Restauranteur Rob Stinson is launching a new venture that will bring some needed development to the Biloxi-Gulfport line.

Stinson bought the property on the east side of Debuys Road where the Friendship House once stood and later Olive Garden restaurant.

He’s going to build a convenience store.

Site work has begun and Stinson says it will be open before the end of the year. He says the lack of a gas station that sells non-ethanol along Highway 90 really spurred his idea and he brought Chevron on as a partner on the project.

Stinson’s development will have that non-ethanol available as part of the high-end store he’s planning, along with 24-hour security, good lighting, and clean restrooms.

It will offer grocery staples, and of course, Stinson’s brand of healthy foods will also be available. “So, we saw a huge need and the study showed it could be very successful. Then thought coupling that with some great food, which is something that we’re really well known for. I don’t think we can miss.”

Long range plans also call for some rental units on the back of the property.