New Developments and Corporate Changes Across Florida

News Summary

Florida is buzzing with new store openings, exciting corporate shifts, and festivals. Whole Foods and BJ’s are coming to local communities, while Allegiant Air is adding new flight routes. Tim Hortons plans to expand in Bradenton, but layoffs at Bloomin’ Brands and legal troubles for Target raise concerns. Additionally, local scandals and cultural festivals add to the state’s vibrant atmosphere, while fiber optic investments promise faster internet access for residents.

Exciting Developments Across Florida: New Shops and Corporate Shifts

Hey there, Florida friends! It’s been a buzzing week across the Sunshine State, with lots of updates on new store openings, corporate changes, and even some fun festivals to look forward to! Let’s dive into the juicy details that will surely make your day a little brighter!

Whole Foods and BJ’s Are Coming to Town

First up, get ready for a Whole Foods grocery store that’s not just a grocery store—it’s going to be part of a high-end retail center in scenic Wesley Chapel, Pasco County! The developers have submitted updated plans, and shoppers are already feeling giddy about added convenience and quality with this new addition to their community.

In addition to that, BJ’s Wholesale Club is also marking its calendar for a grand opening on February 21 in Brooksville, Hernando County. And guess what? This BJ’s will come complete with its own **BJ’s Gas station**, making it easier for you to fuel up while you shop for all your bulk goodies!

Air Travel Takes Off!

Want to spread your wings? Allegiant Air is making that a whole lot easier with seven new flight routes to and from the charming Sarasota Bradenton Airport. This means more convenient options for those looking to escape to their dream destinations!

Wake Up and Smell the Coffee

Calling all coffee lovers! The beloved Canadian coffee chain, Tim Hortons, is setting its sights on Florida with plans to open two new locations in Bradenton. Get ready to indulge in delicious coffee and pastries very soon, as this expansion is definitely brewing excitement in the community!

Corporate Layoffs and Legal Battles

Bloomin’ Brands, which operates Outback Steakhouse, has announced a significant cut of 100 corporate jobs at its Tampa headquarters. The company aims to save a whopping $22 million annually. While it’s a challenging time for those affected, this move is part of a wider corporate trend we’re seeing across different sectors. federal lawsuit against Target, criticizing the giant retailer for reportedly misleading investors regarding its DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives. The State Board of Administration has also joined the legal fray, claiming harm to shareholders due to Target’s decisions. All this legal drama comes on the heels of a notable drop in Target’s stock, marking its longest losing streak in 23 years. Doesn’t that just make you wonder about all the behind-the-scenes maneuvering?

Local Scandals, Festivals and Fading Favorites

M&L Cabinets was recently sentenced for embezzling nearly $220,000 through dubious expenses — sounds like a plot twist right out of a movie! Meanwhile, you might want to check out the inaugural Sicilian Carnevale Festival at Casa Santo Stefano in Ybor City. This festival is all about celebrating Sicilian and Italian culture, and it promises to be a delightful way to immerse yourself in tradition and fun!

However, it isn’t all about new and exciting things, as the popular downtown St. Petersburg burger bar, The Avenue, has announced it will be closing its doors after a glorious 13 years of serving hungry patrons. It’s a bittersweet goodbye to a beloved local joint.

Staying Connected with Fiber Optics

Lumos, a fiber optic internet provider, is making a major move by investing in nearly 7,500 miles of fiber infrastructure set to serve around 500,000 households and small businesses across Florida. This is game-changing for anyone who needs fast and reliable internet!

So there you have it, lovely Floridians! From new retail experiences to exciting travels and a taste of culture, there’s plenty happening around the state. Keep your eyes peeled for these happenings that will surely shape our community in the coming days!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Patch: New BJ’s, Tim Hortons, and Corporate News
• Business Wire: Lumos Fiber Internet Expansion
• Business Wire: LEVEL99 Expansion at Disney World
• ABC News: Florida Sues Target Over DEI Practices
• News Press: Joann Closing Stores in Florida