Stay informed about business news and updates in Tampa Bay, FL.
Despite the recent hurricanes, holiday shopping in Tampa Bay is projected to be robust this season, as retailers anticipate increased consumer spending. Local businesses, particularly those catering to tourists, are hoping to recover from the impacts of the storms, with forecasts indicating a positive trend in holiday expenditures.
A new high-rise development is in the works for the Mirror Lake community, spearheaded by the developer of St. Petersburg's tallest building. This project reflects ongoing growth and investment in the area, promising to enhance the local skyline and contribute to the city's economic development.
Lenny's Surf Shop in St. Pete Beach is undergoing a significant rebuild after sustaining severe damage from recent hurricanes and flooding. With 30 years of service to the local community, the shop's revival highlights the resilience of local businesses in the face of natural disasters.
Back Nine, a new indoor golf simulator facility in Oldsmar, Florida, offers a weatherproof solution for golfers looking to improve their game or enjoy a round without the constraints of time and weather. With three Trackman simulators and access to nearly 300 courses, the venue aims to cater to busy individuals and families. Owner Korey Rogers emphasizes the convenience of playing a full round in under an hour, making it an attractive option for local golf enthusiasts.
New businesses are sprouting along Bruce B. Downs Boulevard in New Tampa, revitalizing the area by replacing older establishments. With the closure of a Winn-Dixie store to make way for an Aldi, residents can expect a diverse array of new retail options, restaurants, and cafes, contributing to the community's growth.
Visit St. Pete-Clearwater is actively working to rejuvenate tourism in Pinellas County following recent hurricanes, showcasing the area's resilience and readiness to welcome visitors back. The event attracted over 30 major tour operators and travel agents, emphasizing the importance of restoring local tourism. With beaches fully open, this initiative aims to highlight the region's ongoing appeal despite the challenges faced.
Tampa Electric Co. has revealed plans to recover hundreds of millions of dollars in costs incurred during power-restoration efforts following hurricanes Helene and Milton. The financial implications of these recovery efforts are significant for local customers and the utility's operations, highlighting the ongoing impact of extreme weather events on energy infrastructure.
A Bradenton Beach waterfront restaurant has reopened after six weeks of closure due to Hurricanes Milton and Helene, with community members celebrating the occasion. The reopening is a testament to the resilience and collaborative spirit of the locals, who played a significant role in the restoration.
Developers have acquired Salt Creek Marina in St. Petersburg, Florida, as part of a larger project that remains undisclosed. This acquisition adds to their growing portfolio of adjacent properties, raising concerns among local businesses and residents about potential job losses and changes to the community.
Duke Energy Florida anticipates storm-related restoration costs from hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton could reach up to $1.3 billion, with plans to seek approval to pass these costs to customers as soon as March. The utility’s parent company, Duke Energy, reported these figures in a recent SEC filing, highlighting the significant financial impact of the storms on the utility’s operations in Florida.