The Matador

Founded in 2012 by Texas Tech alumni and Lubbock natives Stephanie and Steve Massengale, The Matador stands as a beacon of Red Raider pride in Lubbock, Texas. With two strategically located stores, The Matador has become a go-to destination for all things Texas Tech.  

From Campus Design to The Matador

While in college, Steve and his friends started a business selling t-shirts called Campus Design in 1992. While Steve had always harbored the desire to start a business, the genesis of Campus Design was inspired by the Lady Raiders’ National Championship win in 1993. Over the next decade, Steve managed Campus Design, eventually bringing Stephanie on board after she returned to Lubbock and they were married. Their journey took a new turn when they decided to sell the business in 2002. 

For the next decade, the Massengales focused on their other venture, Advanced Graphix, a company that specializes in large-scale printing, embroidery and promotional products such as signs, banners and vehicle wraps. However, in 2012, they felt like there was a need in the market and an opportunity to own a prime property at Broadway and University in Lubbock was the catalyst for their re-entry into the world of retail, giving birth to The Matador.

Drawing from their experience with Campus Design, the Massengales realized that the name “Campus Design” didn’t effectively convey the Texas Tech story. They were determined to choose a unique name for their new store, considering that some competitors had already established themselves. Eventually, they drew inspiration from the Matador Song and the original Texas Tech mascot and decided on the name The Matador. 

About The Matador

As mentioned earlier, The Matador has two locations in Lubbock, Texas. One near the corner of Broadway and University and the other at 103rd Street and Quaker Avenue. Both stores have a unique audience. The Broadway and University store primarily serves students, their families and visitors, while the Quaker store caters to Texas Tech alumni and local Red Raiders. Stephanie describes The Matador as a store with “something for everyone,” offering ladies’ fashion for all ages, men’s clothing, a vast selection of Under Armour products, baby gifts, tailgating supplies, Christmas ornaments and even pet products. 

Both stores sell many items designed and produced by their other company Advanced Graphix. Stephanie believes this aspect is what sets them apart from other Texas Tech stores; as a lot of their products are made locally making their designs exclusive to The Matador.

Lubbock’s Economy & Entrepreneurial Spirit 

The Massengales have been deeply involved in the Lubbock community from the start. They first crossed paths while participating in Chamber of Commerce activities, and their strong ties to Texas Tech and the Chamber have been instrumental in their success. 

One of the key factors that contribute to the success of local businesses in Lubbock is the unwavering support of the community. Residents rally behind new businesses, eager to see them thrive. Stephanie Massengale herself acknowledges this support as a vital factor in The Matador’s growth.

“Lubbock is a great place to start a business,” Steve said. “If you are interested in a high quality of life and a place to raise a family, Lubbock is the place for you.” 

Lubbock not only provides an environment with a high quality of life and a low cost of living, but it boasts a “uniquely, diversified economy.” 

“Lubbock’s diversified economy keeps us from experiencing the highs of the highs and the lows of the lows that you see in other communities,” Steve said. “The fact that we have a large medical industry, a gargantuan agricultural industry and a concentration of higher education institutions, gives Lubbock a good mix that makes us stable. This allows businesses to be successful and allows people that want to start a business to sustain them here.” 

Steve Massengale offers sage advice for those considering entrepreneurship: “Do your research and determine where your business would or would not be successful. Talk to other small business owners who have ‘chopped wood’ for a long time and understand the challenges.” Stephanie adds that getting involved and networking in local organizations, like the Chamber of Commerce, can be highly beneficial for budding entrepreneurs.

The Matador is more than a store; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of Texas Tech University and the entrepreneurial drive of Stephanie and Steve Massengale. Their journey from Campus Design to The Matador reflects the unique blend of tradition, innovation and community support that makes Lubbock an ideal place to start and grow a business. Whether you’re a die-hard Red Raider or simply seeking quality merchandise, The Matador is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the heart and soul of Texas Tech.

To learn more about local businesses in Lubbock, Texas, follow @lubbockeda on all platforms, and check out our blog page here.

“We are centered primarily around workforce to ensure we have a future trained workforce available for our businesses.”

John Osborne
Lubbock Economic Development Alliance