SALT LAKE CITY — Utah’s rapid growth has brought new shopping centers, restaurants and some of the most sought-after brands. If you’ve ever wished for a Trader Joe’s, Buc-ee’s or Costco in your neighborhood, here’s the secret: it’s not luck — it’s data.

Artificial intelligence is playing matchmaker between retailers and communities, and your cell phone is a big part of the equation.

From baby back ribs to big data

Tooele’s new Chili’s restaurant didn’t just open — it shattered records.

“Busiest opening out of any Chili’s in the entire country,” said John Perez, Tooele’s economic development director.

Chilis in Tooele pictured on Nov. 6, 2025. (Wes Barton, KSL TV)

In just two months, the retail center hosting Chili’s logged nearly one million visits. But city leaders know more than ju

See Full Page