September 2019 Southwest Florida Business Today

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Focus on Manufacturing

Area companies are building a better future — one made right here in Southwest Florida.

Distributed in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Estero, Bonita Springs and Naples

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Hoffmann Family buys Hertz Arena, Everblades The Hoffmann Family of Companies has entered into an agreement to purchase the Florida Everblades and the Hertz Arena.

Plans are underway for a complete renovation of the 8,284-seat, multipurpose arena. The improvements will include enhanced skyboxes, food services and installation of a state-ofthe-art scoreboard.

Hertz Arena, which opened in 1998 as Everblades Arena, hosts a variety of events including concerts, Cirque du Soleil, Disney on Ice, boxing and trade shows. The venue offers

25 suites, two additional ice rinks, a private club and a pub, Breakaway Sports Pub. The arena is also home to the Florida Gulf Coast University Eagles club hockey team of the American Collegiate Hockey Association.

“We are optimistic that all of the 330 employees will remain with the Hoffmann Family of Companies,” said Craig Brush, Florida Everblades President and General Manager, who signed a five-year contract and has a commitment from all his senior staff to remain in place.

“We are thrilled to be acquired by

Bell spoke in August at the Citrus Expo and Vegetable and Specialty Crop Expo, where growers from around the region gathered to hear her discuss this new and just recently legal product to diversify their inventory.

Just a few years ago, there were no legal reasons to grow cannabis in Florida. Now, medical marijuana dispensaries pop up in more shopping centers each week. Soon, farmers will grow non-narcotic hemp crops.

With the 2018 federal farm bill allowing hemp to grow, a budding industry will soon emerge in Florida. The Legislature this year authorized a pilot program for growing hemp in the Sunshine State, and state officials are nearly done weeding through a stack of public suggestions.

GrowFL announced this year’s 50 Florida Companies to Watch honorees, including three from Southwest Florida. Companies to Watch is a statewide competition that identifies companies expected to see significant growth over the next several years.

The GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch awards program—now in its ninth year—honors 50 select second-stage companies from throughout Florida for developing valuable products and services, creating quality jobs, enriching communities, and broadening new industries throughout Florida. Chosen from 500 growing second-stage nominations from throughout, Florida, the 50 companies named as the 2019 Florida Companies to Watch honorees generated nearly $1 billion in revenue and added over 900 jobs between 2015 and 2018. Together, the honorees project a 35 percent increase in revenue and 37 percent increase in job growth in 2019 compared to 2018.

“These stand-out companies are all led by entrepreneurs, and have demonstrated their capacity and intent to grow,” said Dr. Tom O’Neal, GrowFL executive director. “They also all have critical intellectual property or a niche position that gives them a competitive edge in their markets,” he said.

Local honorees include: Cottrell Title & Escrow, Collier County; Mettauer Environmental, Lee County; and VeraData, Lee County .

“This list recognizes second-stage Florida companies with passionate leaders who are making a difference in growing and diversifying our economy,” said Jennifer Barrows, GrowFL Chairman of the GrowFL Advisory Board and Business Development Executive with WithumSmith+Brown, PC. Second-stage companies are those

HEMP See page 5

GROWFL See page 10

Commercial Real Estate

A specially focused monthly section exploring the SWFL commercial real estate marketplace.

IN THE NEWS

Fort Myers sixth Business Summit slated for Sept. 20

SUMMIT See page 7

Applications being accepted for the 25th Blue Chip Award The 25th Annual Southwest Florida Blue Chip Community Business Award application deadline is fast approaching. The Blue Chip Community Business Award recognizes successful, small businesses in Lee, Collier or Charlotte County that have overcome adversity to achieve success. Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, Sept. 4.

The independent judges select the honoree after all the applications AWARD See page 19

19/20 SEASON

EVERBLADES See page 6

GrowFL announces statewide honorees

HOT CROP

The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce has announced an exciting line-up for its 2019 Business Summit, set for Sept. 20. The summit, now in its sixth year, will run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers.

This year’s keynote address is “Communicate Your Way to Success,” by entrepreneur, business coach and international speaker Jason Evers. Evers has traveled to more than 20 countries on five continents

such a prestigious company. Our partnership with the Hertz Corporation and now this new ownership ensures that Hertz Arena will maintain our strong community presence and continue to be the number one choice for entertainment in Southwest Florida.”

The team and the arena were previously owned by Peter Karmanos, founder of Compuware Corporation and prior majority owner of the Carolina Hurricanes in the National Hockey League.

“Simply put, without the support of

Holly Bell addresses citrus growers about the 25,000-plus uses for industrial hemp, which can now be grown legally in Florida

Cannabis chief promises rich stash for hemp growers Special to SWFBT Submitted By: Jacob Ogles, Editor When other states started authorizing farmers to grow hemp, it didn’t take long to realize there was no place to sell it. Because no structures had been put in place for processing and manufacturing plants, state officials found themselves rushing a regulatory structure through so farmers could offload their first harvests.

Holly Bell, Florida’s first Director of Cannabis, plans to learn from that mistake. She said the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will make sure all parts of the burgeoning hemp industry can move forward as soon as new rules unroll later this fall.

“When our farmers are ready for a cash flow, we want to encourage them to get going,” she said.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAYÂŽ

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

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Lee County initiates litigation against MW Horticulture Lee County filed a lawsuit Aug. 13 in the 20th Judicial Circuit Court asking a judge to force MW Horticulture to alleviate the noxious and hazardous conditions that nearby residents and businesses of the company’s North Fort Myers site have had to endure the last 20 months.

These conditions have included continuous smoke emissions from numerous fires, encroachment on private

properties and the county’s right-ofway, and obstruction of a storm-water drainage system.

The action is the official commencement of litigation following an Aug. 6 vote by the Lee County Commission.

Specifically, commissioners authorized the Lee County Attorney’s Office to file an emergency lawsuit in Circuit Court to bring MW Horticulture into

compliance with regulations in order to protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.

“The county’s litigation with MW Horticulture is a last resort to alleviate the safety issues that the property presents to the community,” Lee County Attorney Richard Wesch said.

“MW Horticulture was fully compensated at its North Fort Myers site by the county’s debris contractor for post-

Hurricane Irma debris. The present situation is the result of the fact that MW Horticulture continued to take in debris once it reached capacity and refused to expend the costs associated with removal of the materials from the property.”

Lee County contracted with Crowder Gulf and other vendors to remove and properly dispose of hor-

LAWSUIT See page 20

MANUFACTURING

EAS makes homes safer with stronger products Eastern Architectural Systems was originally Flesher Windows. In 2011, we acquired and rebranded the vinyl and aluminum impact window and door manufacturer under our parent company, Eastern Metal Supply.

EMS earned its reputation throughout the U.S. as a first-class supplier of aluminum products based on the principles of excellent service and quality and wanted that work ethic, quality and service to ripple in our newly acquired company, EAS. As a window and door manufacturer in Southwest Florida, we hold all building code requirements, certifications and Florida Product Approvals, allowing us to maintain a high-end, quality product, especially for those vulnerable and prone to hurricanes.

Most people might not know just how significant building codes and Florida Product Approvals really are. As demonstrated by Hurricane Andrew in 1992, Hurricane Floyd in 1999, Charley in 2004, and Katrina, Rita and Wilma in 2005, flying debris can easily break non-impact windows and doors, which can cause a sudden internal pressurization within your home. This is actually the most common cause of roof failures.

Storm protection is one huge benefit of impact windows, but there are a few more benefits that some people may not think of right away.

Impact windows and doors help keep your home safe and secure by making burglaries much more difficult, and therefore unlikely.

Impact windows and doors also help regulate the temperatures inside your home and are potentially eligible for tax credits since they are all Energy Star-rated.

Other benefits of impact windows include reduced outdoor

BY GREG noise and blockage of UV rays that WEEKES can fade your fabrics and walls Guest Columnist over time.

I couldn’t be more proud of the strategic partnerships, certifications and product line advancements that we’ve developed over the years to better satisfy the needs of Southwest Florida homeowners.

Just within the past few months, we’ve officially transitioned all of our glass to Cardinal Glass Industries to provide a faster turnaround time to our customers.

And, all of our Bertha Single Hung and Horizontal Roller windows now have Owens Corning weather stripping, which reduces air infiltration by 22-25% over standard weather stripping.

At EAS, we want to echo the strong values of EMS and provide Florida homeowners with peace of mind and the best impact windows and doors that fit their lifestyle needs and are durable enough to withstand the impacts of the strongest hurricanes.

Our windows and doors are the only ones in Florida that carry the Good Housekeeping Seal, which offers an additional two-year money-back guarantee on top of what is offered through the dealer and manufacturer.

We also offer customization on all our windows and doors, from window style to frame material to glass package, without sacrificing beauty, strength and ultimately value.

I look forward to our continued growth over the next several years, including the opening of our 90,000 square foot facility, where we will house EMS shutter and patio products. If you’re in the Fort Myers area, we welcome you to stop by our 172,000-square-foot EAS facility and showroom to see our complete line of windows, doors and shutters.

Greg Weekes co-founded Eastern Metal Supply in 1982 and the company acquired and rebranded Flesher Windows as Eastern Architectural Systems in 2011. Contact him at (800) 432-2204.

Robotic Manufacturing a Good Fit in Cape Coral

At VR/Wesson, a staff of 30 operate high-end robotic machines that can run 24-hours a day.

They produce cutting tool inserts, tool holders and milling cutters for a range of industries: automotive, steelmaking, agricultural, construction, mining, marine, sport, and recreational.

Through a CareerSource Southwest Florida grant, VR/Wesson is training employees to meet requirements for international standards certification.

Grow your high-tech light manufacturing operation in one of the Top 10 fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the nation. Contact the Cape Coral Economic Development Office today.

(239) 574-0444 • (833) CAPEEDO ecodev@capecoral.net • bizcapecoral.com

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

MANUFACTURING

Saminco brings sustainability to mining industry I love the reaction I always get when someone asks about the company I work for, “What does Saminco International do?” Well, we design and manufacture electric traction drives and accessories for mining vehicles. “What kind of mining?” Underground mining.

That is when I get the stunned looks.

Yes, it is very unexpected to be building underground mining equipment in Southwest Florida; after all, if you dig down more than 3 feet, you are in water.

However, you can design and build products anywhere and ship them somewhere else. When our company owner, Bonne Posma, decided to move his business to Florida from Buffalo, N.Y. in the early ‘80s, he did it for the weather and the taxfriendly environment. Our employees like the lifestyle of Southwest Florida as well, so it is a win-win situation all the way around.

I also get a quizzical look when someone hears “electric traction drives.” We don’t make the vehicle; we make the motors turn. We build the brains and we make them smart.

For years, our primary market has been the coal industry, a market that has radically shrunk in recent years as power plants switch from coal to natural gas.

That has been just one of the challenges we face. Our products go into mine vehicles that go underground, vehicles with ®

www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

interesting names like shuttle car, scoop or continuous miner. Made of inch thick cast iron, these vehicles are heavy and extremely durable on the outside.

On the inside, they originally ran diesel engines, which

BY BARBARA would quickly polRIPPY lute the limited unGuest Columnist derground air. In the last few decades, they have become electricified, first with long power cords having 3- to 4-inch diameters and turning more recently to battery power.

Picture the challenges the auto industry has faced while developing the hybrid-electric cars and imagine a vehicle that weighs tons more and runs underground in a wet, muddy, dark environment. Convincing mine owners and operators to run this new technology has been an additional challenge as it is a more expensive, but one they are starting to embrace as mine regulations for clean air become more stringent and costs to ventilate mines that are running deeper underground rise at a faster pace than converting their vehicles from diesel to electric.

Our market has begun to change as we

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step into hard rock underground mining for potash, nickel, gold and other minerals. From our service center in West Virginia, to locations in Colorado and South Carolina, to our office in Johannesburg, South Africa, we now sell our products internationally in Canada, China, India, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Mexico, Peru, Germany and more.

In 2008, our sister company, ATS (American Traction Systems) was founded to take the same motor driving expertise to above ground vehicles, like monorails, subways, locomotives, marine vessels, military transport and experimental vehicles. ATS now has electric drives on such famous rides as the iconic red New Orleans streetcar, or the recently refurbished El Paso streetcars. We move the first all-electric battery operated passenger-car ferry in the US located in Gee’s Bend, Alabama. We move locomotives in the US, Canada, Germany, Brazil and Gabon Africa, just to name a few places.

When we started in 1992, we were a trailblazer in electric traction drive development. Our equipment would go in new vehicles or it could be used to rebuild older yet still functional vehicles.

Our team of engineers traveled to mines, going deep underground to see the conditions our equipment would face. They brought new technology via the latest

Eric@EdisonAvenue.com

Certified Business Intermediary Certified Merger & Acquisition Professional Master of Business Administration 2014, 2016 & 2018 BBF #1 Top Dollar Producer for SWFL 2018 IBBA Chairman’s Circle and Deal Maker Awards Over $165M Lifetime Transaction Volume

The contents of Southwest Florida Business Today® are copyright 2019 by Southwest Florida Newspapers, Inc. No portion may be reproduced without the express written consent of Southwest Florida Newspapers, Inc. The publication of any advertisement or article does not necessarily reflect the view of the publisher of Southwest Florida Business Today®. For more information about any article or column appearing in Southwest Florida Business Today®, for advertising rates or subscription information please call 239-573-9732 or email: publisher@ swfloridabusinesstoday.com

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Municipal Supply packs a punch with Signarama

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Barbara Rippy is Marketing Director for Saminco International and American Traction Systems, located in the Airport Woods Commercial Park off Treeline Avenue in Fort Myers. Contact her at (239) 561-1561 or brippy@samincoinc.com.

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P.O. Box 152299 Cape Coral, FL 33915-2299 News: 239-573-9731 All other: 239-573-9732 News email: editor@swfloridabusinesstoday.com All other information requests: publisher@ swfloridabusinesstoday.com

power components, computers and software to make our drives run better, faster, safer and more efficient. Then they came home to Florida and began the design work. Ideas became drawings and software, which became inventory, which became product.

It takes a wide skill set to bring those projects to fruition; from AutoCAD designers and engineers, to trained technicians for building and testing, to purchasing, warehouse and office staff, to sales/ service technicians on the road. In addition, our products that go into some underground mining situations must meet the safety requirements of MSHA (Mine Safety & Health Administration). To further improve our manufacturing process, we recently became an ISO 9001:2015 certified company, which means we will constantly evaluate methods to improve how we manufacture our products.

Saminco International will continue to bring innovation from SWFL to the rest of the world and appreciates the contributions of our employees, suppliers and local community to make that a reality.

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Municipal Supply & Sign Company has been a stalwart in the Naples area for over 50 years. As originally founded, it was a major Florida traffic sign manufacturer, serving the needs of Collier County, Tampa, MiamiDade and many cities and counties in between. In 2015, Municipal added the Signarama-Naples franchise to the mix. This enables Municipal to service all customers with a full signage package.

Municipal itself was acquired by its current owner in 2005. It has since grown into a national sign company.

Can you believe it was Municipal that did the signage for Mount St. Helens?

Today, in addition to serving the needs of cities, counties, schools and the Department of Transportation, Municipal provides signage and related items to HOAs, pavement contractors, builders and architects. That’s right, the combined team of Signarama and Municipal do many building interiors. Most notably ADA signage, decorative acrylic signs and of course, the front facing channel letters.

You might ask, “How do I pick a sign company?” After all, don’t they all sell the same products, bought from the same wholesalers? The simple answer to this question is yes. Most sign companies are only three to four people and are basically order takers. The Municipal Supply/Signarama team is different. By combining the two, we have double the graphic artists and state-ofthe-art equipment. Most of our product is made in house by a much larger signage team. As a result, we have the reSIGN See page 20

SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 5

MANUFACTURING

HABCO builds up opportunities in sophisticated tech

Since its inception in 1978, HABCO ties based on our cusManufacturing has served both South and tomer’s needs.

Southwest Florida. Our mission is to proAs a certified and vide training and work opportunities for registered AS9100D, men and women with special needs in a ISO 9001:2016 highly sophisticated technical environCompany, HABCO ment. serves a diverse and Operating as a turnkey contract manuprestigious customer facturer, HABCO has proven infrastrucbase including Moture, processes and technical skills in torola Solutions, electro/mechanical manufacturing. We Tyco Electronics,

BY JOSEPH are able to provide a full spectrum of RENGEN ACR Electronics, manufacturing services from prototype Unipower, Reagan Guest Columnist to standard production builds whether it Wireless Corporabe high-mix or low-to-high volume prod- tion, Lockheed Martin, L3 Communicaucts. We have the ability to change priori- tions, Stanley Engineered Fastening and

HEMP PAGE 1 Growers themselves approach hemp seed with a certain level of caution.

Parke Wright, president of Lykes Brothers, questioned Bell about the possibility of an international market, where farmers could legally raise hemp for the past 70 years, flooding the U.S. and undercutting prices.

“Will there be a protection from imports to give this industry a chance to get on track?” he asked.

Other farmers echoed the concern, especially considering manufacturing plants will come online early and may start bringing in goods before Florida growers meet all demand.

Bell doesn’t expect an embargo on imported hemp but does believe intense testing will limit the amount coming to

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com Florida. The state will only allow cannabis plants with up to 0.3 percent levels of THC; growing anything more requires a license in the much more heavily regulated medical marijuana industry.

That brings another risk. Any crops tested and retested that have higher THC levels will be destroyed. But in Tennessee, Bell said that only happened with one crop in the first year of growing hemp.

Right now, the popularity of CBD oils drives demand for the crop, though Bell said even if that passes as a fad, there are 25,000 other uses for industrial hemp. She anticipated the crop will strengthen plenty of ranches, processing facilities and retail shops in Florida for decades.

the Federal Government. Our company supplies products and services for many diverse industries such as Aviation/Aerospace, Maritime, Communications, Medical Device and Pharmaceutical.

The assembly capabilities here include: Full Turnkey Manufacturing; Cable Assembly; Wiring Harnesses; Printed Circuit Board Assembly – Through Hole; Anti-Theft Security Devices; Cellular Phone Repair; Mechanical Assembly; Electronic Test; Repair, Recycling, Refurbishment; Kitting; and Sewing.

A Congressional Record Award was presented by Congressman Ted Deutch.

The company was also recognized with

South Florida Manufacturer of the Year 2019 and the Florida Governor’s Sterling Award 2019.

The business is a Lockheed Martin Platinum Supplier and part of Motorola Total Quality Management and the Motorola Early Supplier Initiative.

Joseph Rengen is the Operations Manager for HABCO Manufacturing. He worked in Manufacturing for over 25 years and acquired a Master Degree in Business in 2015. Rengen is involved in many Community Events and is a member of several Chambers of Commerce. Contact him at jrengen@habcenter.org or (561) 886-3030.

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Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Apply for Family Friendly Business Award Nominations and applications are now being accepted for the Family Friendly Business Awards.

Any business that offers benefits to assist employees in raising their children, such as flex time, health insurance or childcare reimbursement, may be eligible to be named a “Family Friendly Business.”

Organizations are encouraged to apply directly for an award between Aug. 1 and Sept. 13.

All applicants with family friendly business practices will be recognized at an Awards Luncheon slated for Tuesday, Oct. 22, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hilton Naples. Tickets are $50 per person. To apply or purchase tickets, visit http://collierchildcare.org/2018-familyfriendlybusiness-awards/. The public can also nominate a business by emailing Laurab@collierchildcare.org.

The most outstanding family friendly business in their category will also receive an Employer of the Year Award.

An Employer of the Year will be chosen in the following

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For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com four categories: small business, medium business, large business and nonprofit organization. A runner-up in each category will also be recognized.

Employer of the Year Awards recognize companies that model best practices and innovation to support work/life balance for employees with families. Event sponsorships are available and start at $200. At minimum, all event sponsorships include a vendor table, tickets and the opportunity to include promotional items in the event swag bags.

CCCR Executive Director/CEO Niccole Howard said, “A growing number of businesses are developing family friendly policies to reduce friction between family and work responsibilities. Ultimately, these policies help companies attract and retain top talent. As a society, we are learning that what is good for families is good for business.”

EVERBLADES PAGE 1 Peter Karmanos, there would be no Hertz Arena,” Brush said.

“I speak for everyone in the organization in wishing Pete continued success in all his business ventures and would like to thank him for all his support and guidance over the past 21 years. The Hoffmanns, who own the minority of stake in the Kane County Cougars Class A professional baseball team, have been in search of a professional hockey or soccer franchise for the past several years.”

The purchase dovetails with other hospitality businesses the Hoffmanns have purchased in Southwest Florida.

The Hoffmanns are the largest owners of commercial real estate in Naples and have purchased a dozen operating

businesses that employ more than 1,000 people in Southwest Florida.

“The team and the arena have been run well and provide much excitement for their loyal fan base for hockey as well as a myriad of special events,” said David Hoffmann.

“We plan to bring more events and entertainment to Southwest Florida. We have had preliminary discussions with the FGCU’s sports promotion executives to host a nationally televised basketball tournament or major programs, and entertainment executives to bring more headlining musicians and events to the area. The response we have received makes us very optimistic.”

The Hoffmanns recently announced a partnership with Kelly and Aldo Musico and Paul Fleming to expand Tacos & Tequila Cantina restaurants nationally.

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SEPTEMBER 2019

MANUFACTURING

Navis Pack & Ship celebrates anniversary Navis Pack & Ship of SW Florida, a Naples packing and shipping service company, just celebrated its first-year anniversary.

Andy Ahrens and wife Wendy Ahrens relocated last year from Milwaukee, Wisc., and opened the local business on Aug. 1, 2018.

Navis Pack & Ship operates an office in the historic Downtown Naples area on 5th Ave. South, plus a warehouse and packing facility at Drew Circle in Fort Myers.

According to Andy Ahrens, his Navis Pack & Ship outlet has specialized the past year in shipping family heirlooms, including artwork, antiques, grandfather clocks and chandeliers, as well as china, porcelain and other fragile items, to family members and friends around the world. Other unique items shipped recently have included computers, technology and medical equipment, machinery and antique furniture, along with items obtained at auctions. Customized packaging, crating and logistics solutions are available through individually tailored wooden crates and cartons, he said.

Ahrens said a growing number of Naples residents, along with estate and trust administrators, have turned to Navis Pack & Ship to ship personal items to trustees and heirs in the U.S. and abroad, including Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia. The company recently added an international shipping agent who is familiar with customs regulations, exchange rates, governmental policies and local business practices in other countries and major international cities.

“Our international business is a big part of the value we bring to Southwest Florida,” said Ahrens, whose family previously vacationed many times in the area while living in Wisconsin. “It’s a special kind of niche that we offer. And we provide on-site consulting with the family before the packing ever begins. We have the experience that you won’t find with traditional parcel shipping centers or moving companies.”

Ahrens is active in the Naples business community as a member of the local chapter of the Community Owners, Mangers, Associates (COMA) of Florida, a Florida-based, non-profit educational and informational networking organization for condominium owners, community associations, community managers and affiliated professionals.

For information, call (239) 261-9103 or visit www.gonavis.com/naples.

Navis Pack & Ship is part of Annex Brands.

Business services include shipping services through FedEx, UPS, USPS, and DHL, private mailbox rental, notary public service, copy service and custom packing solutions. For more information, visit www.AnnexBrands.com.

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SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 7

MANUFACTURING

Artisan chocolates lead to savoring sweet successes

I began manufacturing ultra-premium artisan chocolates by hand in 2001 inside a small shop near Gateway for the wholesale industry. Shortly after we opened, USA Today named us one of the 10 best in the U.S., quickly launching us into the retail arena.

Since opening 18 years ago, we have grown from a team of two—myself and my wife, Mary Love—to a team of more than 100 employees. We opened with just a small 600-square-foot office, then quickly expanded the salon and production facility at our headquarters off of Daniels Parkway near Gateway.

Ten years later, we opened a second Chocolate Salon in Naples, followed by Artisan Gelato by Norman Love next to our main salon in Fort Myers in 2012.

We opened our third Chocolate Salon in Miromar Outlets in 2014. In 2016, we opened the McGregor Boulevard Chocolate Salon, also in Fort Myers. And in 2018, Norman Love Confections became a “friend of Whole Foods” and opened a freestanding chocolate salon and pas-

try shop within the new Whole Foods Market in Fort Myers, serving sweet and savory bakery items and artisan gelato as well as a line of handcrafted chocolates produced exclusively for Whole Foods.

BY NORMAN As this partnership LOVE grows, so has our Guest Columnist need to increase our manufacturing, with the potential to launch Norman Love Confections into a 24/7 operation.

Today, we manufacture around 6.5 million chocolates annually, with approximately 20 percent of our sales coming from e-commerce.

Expanding our manufacturing facility became a priority, in order to meet the growing demand for products. In addition to our signature chocolates, we have expanded our production to include a new

line of specialty pastries and other bakery products, and we have also expanded our guest experiences at our McGregor Boulevard and now offer beer and wine as well as special events and offerings such as date nights, wine and chocolate pairings and more.

Norman Love Confections has also grown our business online, offering Norman Love Signature Collections and a variety of our specialty products including Stir, Bake, Love cookie kits; gift baskets and gift towers. We have also enhanced our offerings to the business community with corporate gift-giving services and gourmet cakes, cookies and bakery platters for events and special occasions.

With the growth of e-commerce, we are currently finalizing distribution plans that will allow us to reduce shipping costs while increasing our reach into markets across the U.S. Since founding Norman Love Confections, we have received tremendous national and international recognition, but it’s the local support for our chocolates

SUMMIT PAGE 1 strategizing and creating blueprints for entrepreneurs to achieve results.

The Business Summit also includes a variety of informative, interactive sessions led by local business leaders. Based on their expressed interests, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in three 50-minute workshops offered at the Summit.

New this year, a complimentary DiSC Profile assessment and printed report will be offered for all attendees pre-registered by Sept. 11. This recognized behavior assessment tool that helps people identify and maximize their strengths and motivators will be administered through the SBDC at FGCU. At the Summit, LaShaun Collier from Florida Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University will discuss the components of the DISC profiles, designed to help people improve work productivity, teamwork and communication. Individual assessments can also be arranged with each participant at their workplace or at the SBDC at FGCU following the summit.

Norman Love is an internationally renowned chef chocolatier, president and founder of Norman Love Confections, based in Southwest Florida. Contact the company at (239) 829-4650.

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and my family that we celebrate as our greatest achievement. That’s why giving back to the community and supporting more than 300 local charitable causes every year has been a priority for us.

We now employ more than 100 people, and as our operations expand, that number continues to grow. I’m proud to say that our team shares my dedication to the relentless pursuit of innovation, excellence and quality, and we’ve been able to grow without compromising quality. Our business strategy is simple and straightforward. We come to work to be the best every day and to be better than we were yesterday. We strive to never get complacent and not to make any excuses, and our customers can look forward to many more exciting new developments to come.

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Page 8

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

MANUFACTURING

Opening the door to manufacturing success in Florida

Manufacturing in the Southwest Florida region is a rarity because of a few challenges…location, workforce quality and quantity of work. In order to succeed in manufacturing, these challenges must be addressed and overcome.

Most Southwest Florida manufacturers provide goods for regional distribution where distribution can be accomplished with the company’s own fleet of delivery trucks or local delivery services. There are some companies that manufacture and distribute both nationally and worldwide but those are far and few. Those companies

generally have products that can be shipped via the larger delivery services or the USPS. For the companies that manufacture bulkier, heavier items, the location of Southwest Florida makes it more difficult and expensive to ship long distances. Those costs normally push the customer’s cost out of range from their competitors. In order to compete, most of these companies manufacture and deliver regionally in Florida.

MY Shower Door and their sister company, D3 Glass, have realized that in order to be a manufacturer, it is a better strategy to be able to grow vertically and manufac-

You take care of business.

We’ll handle the rest.

ture products that are primarily purchased by themselves. In the case of D3 Glass, their primary customer is MY Shower Door and their seven Southwest Florida locations along with another offshoot, MY Architectural Glass.

BY BILL In order to fill the DAUBMANN capacity of their new Guest Columnist manufacturing facility, D3 Glass also manufactures and sells to other glass shops throughout the State of Florida. They have sold glass that has been installed In such well know facilities as, Disney’s Contemporary Hotel Executive Suites, Disney’s Grand Floridian Villas, Trump’s Doral Resort, Lackland Air Force base, University of Florida’s microbiology lab and the new Mall at University Town Center in Sarasota. D3 Glass also manufactured all of the interior glass for the Hertz Global Headquarters in Estero.

MY Shower Door has also started a new “Hospitality Division” that services the hotel and resort facilities. These buildings require a certain expertise and capability that most local glass shops are unable to do.

Hotels and Resorts need to rent rooms and having a supplier that can manufacture and install shower doors quickly and efficiently has that special appeal to purchasing agents in that industry, MY Architectural Glass is another division of MY Shower Door and installs heavy glass railing systems, office parti-

tions and glass wine closets. Glass offices are becoming increasingly popular as the glass panels allow daylight through a normally dark building making it more energy efficient and aesthetically pleasing and open. This is a top priority for designers and decorators. By having their own customer base, D3 Glass has been growing and improving.

As their business grows, they have been hiring machine operators, loading and delivery personnel, customer service representatives and order entry staff. Each and every staff member undergoes extensive training, in-house, in order to allow the process to flow efficiently. Currently, the staff of all combined entities totals 105 with more still to come.

MY Shower Door, MY Architectural Glass and D3 Glass have positioned themselves for future growth in all aspects of their business, sales, manufacturing and distribution. They have been named to the “INC 5,00 Fastest Growing Businesses in the United States” on four separate occasions 2015, 2016, 2017 and now 2019.

Additionally, they have been named as The Collier County Entrepreneur of the Year, The Bonita Springs Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year, and as the “Small Business Association Family Owner Business of the Year.” They have also won the Glass Magazine Award for having designed and installed the “Best Shower Door in the United States.”

Bill Daubmann is the owner of MY Shower Door. Visit www.myshowerdoor.com and www.d3glass.com. Contact him at (239) 689-8402.

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SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 9

Finalists named for 2019 Industry Appreciation Awards Sixteen companies are finalists for the 2019 Industry Appreciation Awards, which celebrate Lee County’s business community and recognize outstanding local businesses that have positively influenced Southwest Florida.

The finalists will be recognized and the winners will be announced on Oct. 25 at the annual Industry Appreciation Award luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort in Bonita Springs.

Businesses will be honored in five categories: Business of the Year Awarded to a Lee County company that has been in business six or more years under the same corporate name and ownership. The company

must offer high-quality products and services, provide superior customer service, demonstrate strong ethical standards, be community-minded, actively support employee development, exhibit exemplary leadership within its industry and with its clients, and contribute to the economic growth and free enterprise of Lee County.

The finalists in the small business (1-50 employees) category are: • Chris-Tel Construction • Edison National Bank • ITVantage The finalists in the large business (51 or more employees) category are: • MY Shower Door • Sanibel Captiva Community Bank • Scotlynn USA Division

Innovator of the Year Recognizes a local business that develops innovative advanced technologies in its own business or industry and has had a positive economic impact in Lee County. The finalists are: • AXI International • Honc Destruction • Lamar Advertising of Fort Myers Manufacturer of the Year Awarded to a Lee County manufacturing business that exhibits excellence in leadership, performance, profitability and workforce relations. The finalists are: • Golden Manufacturing • HF scientific • MY Shower Door Start Up of the Year Awarded to a company founded

in Lee County in the last three to five years that has overcome challenges and demonstrated continued growth in revenue and staffing to emerge as a business leader. The finalists are: • Architectural Metal Flashings • Creative Architectural Resin Products Community Steward of the Year Awarded to a company that partners with nonprofits, community organizations and programs to improve the quality of business and civic life in Lee County through financial or volunteer support. The finalists are: • Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida • Markham Norton Mosteller Wright and Company • Sullivan State Farm Agencies

Summer hospitality shows signs of strength During June, 586,319 passengers traveled through Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers, Fla., an increase of 7.4 percent compared to June 2018. Year-to-date, passenger traffic is up 9.4 percent compared to last year. The traffic leader in June was Delta Air Lines with 153,972 passengers traveling to and from Fort Myers. Rounding out the top five airlines were Southwest (123,772), American (95,304), JetBlue (67,932) and United (53,464). Southwest Florida International Airport served nearly 9.4 million passengers in 2018 and is one of the top 50 U.S. airports for passenger traffic.

Cultural Planning Group and our CVB team are jointly working on setting up community gatherings throughout the County over the next two months to ascertain what our residents, tourism providers and our arts and culture organizations feel they need for Collier County to be considered a destination of choice for these activities. Please watch for notices of the dates and locations of these community input meetings. We want to hear from everyone.

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com As you will see in other reports that follow, through the month of June, we are on track for another record year. Our leading indicators are showing positive growth. The number of hospitality and tourism jobs that our visitors help create for our residents are up 4%; the numBY JACK ber of visitors is up 4.1%; direct WERT visitor spending is up 6.8%; and Guest Columnist the majority of our hotel general managers are projecting the next three months will show our visitor numbers higher or at least even with that same period last year.

Jack Wert is executive director of the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB. Contact him at jack.wert@colliercountyfl.gov.

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Page 10

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

GROWFL PAGE 1

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

that are defined as having 6 to 150 full-time employees and between $750,000 and $100 million in annual revenue. There are many programs and incubators promoting startup businesses; GrowFL is the only Florida program that focuses exclusively on second-stage companies.

From 2015 through 2018, these companies generated $923 million in revenue and added 935 employees, reflecting a 124% increase in revenue and 131% increase in jobs for the four-year period. That translates into a 31% average annual revenue growth and 32% average annual growth in employees.

These companies projected continued growth in 2019, with a 35% revenue increase and 37% growth in employees compared to 2018. If their projections hold, these companies will have generated $1.38 billion in revenue and added 1,541 employees over the last five years—a 202% increase in revenue and 216% increase in jobs since 2015.

Companies named to the list will be officially recognized at the 9th Annual Florida Companies to Watch Celebration on Nov. 14 at the Hard Rock Live, Universal City Walk in Orlando. Tickets are on sale now for the awards ceremony.

2534-A Edison Avenue | Fort Myers, Florida 33901 (239) 226-0500 | www.ChrisTelConstruction.com

Established in 1989, Chris-Tel Construction is a local Construction Management firm committed to engaging in long-term relationships built upon the principles of integrity, dedication, quality craftsmanship and MY SHOWER DOOR/D3 GLASS unwavering work ethic.

SERVICES WE OFFER •PROJECT DEVELOPMENT •PRE-CONSTRUCTION •CONSTRUCTION •CLOSE OUT NEWCASTLE AVIATION

OUR DISCIPLINES •COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION •SITE/CIVIL CONSTRUCTION •SPECIAL PROJECTS EASTERN METAL SUPPLY SOMERO CONCRETE INSTITUTE

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SEPTEMBER 2019

MANUFACTURING

Do you qualify for tax credits?

The number one reason why businesses, including manufacturers, do not receive Federal Tax Incentives is that they don’t apply for them. If you are the business owner, please know that 80% of all businesses qualify.

There are hundreds of business tax incentives, and most business owners believe their CPA qualifies them for all of the incentives they deserve. But CPAs have their hands full just keeping up with all the new personal and business tax laws and lastminute changes by the IRS. That is why there are few if any CPAs in SWFL who are experts in understanding the intricacies and changes in the tax laws on the hundreds of federal and state tax incentives. It’s not your tax CPA’s fault. It just isn’t their specialty lane. There are several business and personal CPAs who do bring in tax incentive specialists, especially for their high-tax business owners. Whether a business qualifies or not, a tax CPA who reaches out to a client to protect them from over-paying taxes is usually rewarded with loyalty.

One common misunderstanding by business owners is thinking “We’re just a (blank)” - fill in their occupation. “Why would we qualify for something we just do?” (such as hire people; renovate our building; improve our processes, techniques, performance & quality; and more.)

This is also commonly thought among some CPAs who “think” their clients don’t qualify, due to their “type” of occupation.

The PATH Act does not discriminate what “type” of business you operate, but focuses on your business’s behaviors that the government wants to incentivize. So, between the business owner and CPA, the businesses disqualify themselves before they have a chance to have an expert tax incentive CPA group review if they qualify.

If your business exhibits any of these behaviors, you may qualify for the Federal R&D Tax Credit: Process Experimentation: demonstrate through modeling simulation, systematic trial and error that you have evaluated alternatives for achieving the desired results.

Elimination of Uncertainty: demonstrate you’ve attempted to develop and improve a product or process.

Technological in Nature: Experimentation must rely on Science, such as engineering, physical science, physics, chemistry, biology or computer science.

Qualified Purpose: the research must be to create a new or improved process or product which results in a better function, reliability quality and performance. (it need not be successful).

So what are a few examples of activities meet these four areas above:

BY RICK PERRY Guest Columnist

• Streamlined process for manufacturing • Design or innovation of any manufactured product (including patents) • Add equipment or machinery that improved a process • Develop new software or product for the market, including engineering

and design.

• Environmental product testing or experimenting with new materials • Conduct implementation or tests of new concepts and technology • Develop improved or new or more reliable products, processes or formulas.

Most manufacturers of anything; HVAC, construction and related trades; marine and environmental; software; medical and dental labs qualify for the R&D tax credit; as most exhibit the behaviors mentioned above. And contracting and paying third parties for any of these activities qualifies.

Business Owners and HR executives, I’ve run in to many firms who have hired U.S. Veterans over the last one to five years.

Did you know that if you have potential new hires fill out a simple application, you can receive up to $9,600 for that employee?

Other than U.S. veterans, there are several types of new hires that the federal government will provide you a tax credit for: e.g.

Disabled, long-term unemployed. If you are on a hiring spree, or regularly hire people each year, it is imperative to sign up your company before you hire the person, if you would like your federal tax incentive. CPAs don’t do this, so it is important to speak with a Workers Opportunity Tax Credit expert who is experienced and knows its way through the federal bureaucracy.

Like all of these tax incentives, it does not matter what kind of company you own - medical, manufacturer or trade; it only matters if you exhibited the behaviors that the government wants to incentivize. Don’t miss the boat! (and yes, marine construction qualifies too!)

Rick Perry is a Business Advisor for American Business Incentive Services.

Throughout his 20-plus years in business and economic development, he has helped over 300 companies. Perry is managing member of Your Strategy Partners, an economic development consulting firm in Bonita Springs. Contact him at rick@yourstrategypartners.com.

CareerSource Southwest Florida Supports the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Associa�on (SRMA) with its effort to grow manufacturing and diversify Southwest Florida’s economy For more informa�on on programs offered through CareerSource Southwest Florida visit: www.careersourcesouthwes�lorida.com

SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAYÂŽ

Page 11

BUILT TO LAST

Home to over 1,000 manufacturers employing more than 13,000 workers, manufacturing in Southwest Florida is alive and well. From power boats to cutting-edge medical devices and world-class chocolates, these dynamic businesses create value and jobs within the region. The manufacturing sector continues to attract investments and grows faster than the average of all industries. And it shows no sign of slowing down.

AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGES

53,291

$

MANUFACTURING

45,285

$

MANUFACTURING IN SWFL

13,023

The number of employees currently working in SWFL’s manufacturing industry as of Q1 2019.

CAREERS & SALARIES

ALL INDUSTRIES

$95,000

Industrial Production Manager 110K

$103,700

General/Operations Manager

Yearly Salary (USD)

5 YEAR GROWTH MANUFACTURING

ALL INDUSTRIES

100K

80K

$86,200

Managers (other)

60K

Operating Worker

Industrial Engineers 200

$56,300

$84,400

300

400

500

600

Number of Employees

Sources: JobsEQ, CareerSource SWFL, Lee County EDO, Josh Kramer

SRMA oers resources to help manufacturers thrive

Florida. Manufacturing. Those two words are not o�en put together.

And yet there are more than 21,500 manufacturers in Florida, delivering products in almost every industry, from aerospace to medicine to recrea�on and everything in between.

Fueling the strength of Florida’s manufacturing is a coordinated network of assistance. Spread across the state are 14 regional manufacturing associa�ons known as RMAs. Their goal is to promote, service and support local manufacturers.

All of the RMAs are under the umbrella of FloridaMakes, which is part of the manufacturing extension partnership network, a na�onally funded program to help manufacturers become more compe��ve.

Sďż˝ll, only 4% of Florida manufacturing companies take advantage of the beneďŹ ts these organizaďż˝ons provide. That’s a problem not just for the 96% of manufacturers who are missing out, but for everyone, because manufacturing and the economy are inextricably linked.

Manufacturing creates jobs and the products to generate the revenue necessary to create them. A sďż˝mulated economy from manufacturing beneďŹ ts the enďż˝re community. The manufacturing sector in Southwest Florida employs 13,023 people and generates more than $4.785 billion dollars in sales annually, according to data provided by Chmura Economics.

The Southwest Regional Manufacturers Asso-

cia�on, or SRMA for short, is the conduit that brings Southwest Florida manufacturers and the needed resources together to help them to thrive in the areas of economic development, state of the art technology, and maintaining a highly NEIL KAGAN skilled workforce. If you need resources, we at the SRMA are here to provide them.

The SRMA regularly oers training, con�nuing educa�on and networking, and it links manufacturers to even more. Our website, SRMA.net, shows you where to go to learn about tax breaks for machinery, exis�ng machinery, property taxes, sales tax and more. We can connect you with opportuni�es for employee training grants, importexport training, compliance training, informa�on about best prac�ces, and assistance with human resources and recrui�ng.

Every month, we have a roundtable discussion, usually with a keynote speaker from a leading regional or state-level manufacturer. We also regularly arrange tours of local manufacturing plants that allow our members to see cu�ng-edge prac�ces up close. And, we do a�er hours social events to facilitate networking.

Membership in the SRMA is an indispensable part of being a manufacturer in SWFL. It’s easy to

Russel Adams rigging in the bilge at Nor-Tech join, too. Our secure portal on SRMA.net allows you to pay and instantly become a member, and we have a pay-by-check op�on as well. The cost is based on the size of your business, so you’re never too big or too small to get the most out of our service.

Dozens of Southwest Florida manufacturers are already plugged in and taking advantage of resources that put them at the cu�ng edge. Don’t fall behind. Join the SRMA now.

Neil Kagan is the executive director of the SRMA. With nearly 30 years of manufacturing experience, he is an eďŹƒciency expert who often works with companies on process improvement eorts such as Lean Manufacturing and quality systems like ISO 9001. To schedule a consultation, call (239) 560-0052 or email neil@srma.net.

Page 12

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

Hendry County is quickly earning industry a�en�on

Hendry County’s rich soil and ample fields have made it a prime loca�on for farming in Florida since the late 1800s. While the economy in Hendry County is s�ll primarily comprised of the agricultural industry, the County’s loca�on, rich resources and lower operating costs have caught the a�en�on of other industries wan�ng to plant their roots amidst the crops and ca�le.

Manufacturing in Hendry County has quickly climbed the ladder in terms of GDP only to be outranked by agriculture/farming, retail trade and health care.

Located within a 2.5 hour reach of the over 90 million annual consumers in south Florida, Hendry County is a prime loca�on for connec�ons between interna�onal and domes�c manufacturers, distributers, and logis�cs companies. The US 27 and SR 80 interchange offer connec�vity to the I-4 corridor, I-75, I-95, as well as both Southeast and Southwest Florida. Short line railroad connec�vity via CSX and FEC provides an economical alterna�ve shipping op�on for freight.

As the Airglades Interna�onal Airport priva�za�on project con�nues to develop, manufacturing and logis�cs companies are ac�vely seeking proper�es near the city of Clewiston on the eastern side of Hendry County in order to take advantage of the opportuni�es the airport will offer. The Airglades project, a new stateof-the-art logis�cs complex, is being designed for the efficient flow of perishable goods from La�n America to consumers in the United States. Proper�es on and off of the airport will have access to logis�c networks designed for movement of cargo travelling in and out of the region while also crea�ng industry opportuni�es unlike anything seen in Florida’s Heartland Region

before.

Hendry County has been proac�vely preparing for the Airglades project through site readiness and infrastructure projects as well as workforce development and training; all vital elements important for entrepreneurs and corporaKEITHA DANIELS �ons alike who are seeking good investments. The City of Clewiston has designated commercial/light Industrial shovel ready land within the City limits providing occupants with access to City u�li�es such as sewer, water, and electric. Alterna�ve resources such as natural gas lines also exist within the City limits.

The Hendry County Adult Educa�on School has placed an emphasis on providing training for jobs such as welding and construc�on that will be needed in both the construc�on and opera�ng phases of Airglades Airport expansion. Enrollment in the adult school has increased overall thanks to a coordinated marke�ng effort. Students in 15 Secondary and Post-Secondary Career and Technical Educa�on Programs earned 857 Industry Cer�fica�ons through the Adult Educa�on School in 2019 and Hendry County ranked #1 as the top earner of Industry Cer�fica�ons in rural districts in the State of Florida.

Hendry County has also been suppor�ve of Immokalee Technical College’s (iTech) proposed move into the Glades County Regional Training Facility in Moore Haven. The facility boasts 40,000 square feet of avail-

The MC Ventures team stands ready to serve Southwest Florida and beyond. able training space with room for growth. The center is primed to produce a pipeline of talent able to meet the needs of not only Hendry and Glades Coun�es, but the Heartland Region as a whole, se�ng the inland coun�es up to enter the compe��ve area workforce availability.

Manufacturing companies seeking a strategic loca�on and a skilled workforce all within a small town set�ng are invited to grow with us.

Keitha Daniels is the Director for Hendry County Economic Development Council. Keitha has worked for the Board of County Commissioners over the past 5 years with a focus in economic development. She also serves as an advisor to civic and revitalization organizations in Hendry County. To contact her, email keitha@hendryedc.com

Hear what our local manufact “Doing business (manufacturing) in Hendry County is more efficient due to less taxes, real estate and labor costs.”

- Mike and Lorie Cox, Owner/Operators, MC Ventures, LaBelle

Hendry County Benefits of Locating in Hendry County Include: Lower Operating Costs US 27 & SR 80 capacity (four and six lane divided) with connectivity to the I-4 corridor, I-75, I-95, Southeast and Southwest Florida Skilled Workforce Rural Incentives

WWW.HENDRYEDC.COM 863-675-6007

“Collier County has served as a suppor�ve home for Lenkbar by providing us with a highly skilled workforce and a strong rela�onship with a leading medical device manufacturer, Arthrex. This success has facilitated the expansion of our new 20,000 sq. �. state-of-the-art facility near the Naples Airport.”

- Erik Papenfuss, CEO Lenkbar

SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 13

Growth ensures SWFL’s future prosperity

Southwest Florida’s economy is vibrant and have seen for example in growing. The region’s economic growth will medical device, maritime help our communities weather the inevitable and construction related downturns in national economic cycles and manufacturing. These secprovide opportunities for new prosperity to tors are emerging regionour residents. A hallmark of this growth is its ally, developing clusters diversification. In FGCU’s most recent Indusand fostering supply chain try Diversification analysis, the Cape Coral-Fort growth. This growth conMyers MSA ranked 5th in the State of Florida tinues to correct ineffiunderpinned by its emerging manufacturing JOHN TALMAGE ciencies in our market. sector.

For example, we have long Traditionally, the contribution of the manu- paid a premium for deadheading imports bound facturing sector is measured through an exami- for Southwest Florida. A key benefit of a more nation of NAICS codes. Manufacturing statistics robust manufacturing sector will be more outare based on information collected at the “es- bound activity, bringing costs down in our trucktablishment”—or plant—level, as opposed to ing, rail and airport cargo related activities. the “firm” level. That means numerous manWhile we have benefited by the innovation ufacturing-related activities, such as parts as- seen in the larger manufacturing sector, edusembly, R&D centers and warehouse and dis- cational partners are also responding to this tribution centers, are not included within the growth with efforts to add new degree and NAICS codes for manufacturing (31-33). For Lee certificate programs at our area’s colleges and County, these ancillary businesses double the universities. FGCU will provide a new degree base number of 6,500 direct jobs attributable in Supply Chain Management beginning in Septo the manufacturing cluster bringing the total tember. This is just one of the many programs jobs of this cluster to 12,500 jobs with revenues they are expanding or adding in response to of $6.5 billion. increasing economic diversity. FSW continues Our abundance of natural resources, access to aggressively pursue state training dollars to to large markets to the east and north of the offer specialized workforce training programs. region and overall regional integration contrib- CareerSource is a state leader in advocating for ute to a dynamic manufacturing sector. This certification programs and is a key partner in sector is innovative and entrepreneurial as we our efforts to recruit and expand all businesses.

Partners such as the Southwest Florida Community Foundation’s Future Makers Coalition are working with industry executives to identify new ways to support workforce and economic growth. The Lee County School Board, our most important generator of a future workforce, continues to adapt and respond to a fast changing economy. All of these efforts are essential to our continued economic success.

Southwest Florida and Lee County especially are an exciting place to be. Our economy is growing, our future is bright and as we move closer to a full time population of 1 million people in Lee County and 2 million in the region, manufacturing and other sectors that support it such as transportation, distribution and training, among others, will continue to grow and thrive here. As always, the Lee County Economic Development Office salutes these businesses, their employees and professional associations such as the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association for the outstanding job they are doing to sustain our growth and inspire our future.

John Talmage, Director, Lee County Economic Development Office, has spent more than 30 years working in local economic and community development, both for municipal governments and national research organizations. To contact him, email JTalmage@leegov.com

turers have to say about doing business in Southwest Florida “Since moving to Naples in 1976, Pelican Wire has watched Collier County grow and we’ve been pleased to be part of that growth. As a global manufacturer, we help to diversify the economy of Southwest Florida and take great pride in sending our ‘Made in SWFL’ products to points all across the globe. As we con�nue to grow and develop new markets, we will also con�nue to stand as proud ambassadors of Southwest Florida, with its incredible scenery, lifestyle and people.”

- Trent Dunn, Marketing Manager, Pelican Wire, Naples

“We began a�ending roundtable discussions and networking events a�er joining the SRMA in 2018. The more involved we became, the greater the benefits to our company. We have developed indispensable business rela�onships that have provided us with essen�al legal, tax and financial advice and assisted us with tax credits, employee training programs, ISO and lean manufacturing.

- Bonne Posma, Saminco International Founder and CEO

“Manufacturing in the best area of the state – Southwest Florida. We enjoy the year-round beauty that SWFL has to offer, and grow our business with local talent; all while contribu�ng to our community, and serving every aircra� manufacturer in the world. We are proud of the growing support offered in our region.”

- Hector Sanchez, President, Loos & Company, Naples

Page 14

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

Diversifying commerce creates a more robust economy At the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, we believe a diverse economy is key to a robust economy.

While our tourism and hospitality industries are key to Collier County’s economic stability, there has been a significant focus in recent years to grow the manufacturing industry in Collier County and throughout the region.

There are about 317 manufacturing opera�ons in Collier County, ranging from medical device manufacturers and chemical manufacturers to cable and wire manufacturers, employing more than 4,200 individuals in the region and contribu�ng more than $988.7 million to the local economy in 2018.

The county’s diverse opera�ons include Arthrex, a global medical device company. A leader in new product development and medical educa�on, Arthrex is a huge economic driver and currently employs 3,000 people in the SWFL region, with the goal of adding 500 new jobs locally by 2021. A new event and administra�on center, as well as a hotel for visi�ng clients, is scheduled to open in early 2020. Based in Collier for the last 20 years, Arthrex has laid the groundwork for growth in the medical device manufacturing industry, with several smaller companies emerging to supplement Arthrex’s needs.

One notable expansion in the medical device manufacturing sector is Lenkbar, which produces flexible screws for joints. The company will be moving into a new, 20,000 sq. �. state-of-the-art facility in Naples in 2019, and received the “Company to Watch” Excel-

lence in Industry Award from the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce in 2018.

In an en�rely separate manufacturing field, Pelican Wire is an employee-owned designer and producer of custom UL cer�fied insulated appliance, building, fixture and MELANIE SCHMEES floor wires. Celebra�ng 50 years in business this year, the company has about 80 employees and serves clients around the world.

Another company making big waves in the manufacturing industry is Progress Rail Naples. A subsidiary of Caterpillar, Progress Rail Naples produces fuel injec�on pumps, injector assemblies, nozzle assemblies, delivery valves, plungers and barrels and electronic injectors for the locomo�ve industry. The Naples division employs roughly 80 employees and is ac�ve throughout the community, speaking on topics such as workforce and talent.

As these companies grow, so does the need for a talented workforce. Collier County Public Schools and The Greater Naples Chamber have recognized the importance of a “grow your own” talent strategy and is taking steps to create a talent pipeline for local manufacturers. The school district, with the assistance of the Naples Chamber, received a $3 million grant from the

LEE COUNTY CELEBRATES MANUFACTURING MONTH Join the growing manufacturers and corporations who have made their home in Lee County, FL, where opportunity awaits.

Now is the time to learn more about Lee County’s growth, business climate, quality of place and more by visiting LeeCountyBusiness.com. To explore potential investment opportunities, tax benefits and in-depth information on Lee County’s Opportunity Zones, visit LeeCoBiz.com.

state of Florida to create the Center for Manufacturing Excellence, which will expand and enhance Immokalee Technical College’s manufacturing offerings at a centralized loca�on. The center, which is set to open in January 2020, will not only offer a tradi�onal machining course, but also create specialized, industry-specific training programs and an appren�ceship program.

Fostering growth in the manufacturing industry is cri�cal to diversifying our economy, and it is something that we at the Greater Naples Chamber work hard every day to address. By understanding the challenges and opportuni�es the industry faces, we are on the forefront of advoca�ng for this sector. We have a strong partnership with local and state government, the business community and educa�onal ins�tu�ons to ensure that our manufacturers have the access to the resources that they need to growth and thrive.

Melanie R. Schmees is Director of Business and Economic Research at The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce. She conducts business retention and expansion visits, heads economic research and analysis initiatives and coordinates with numerous governmental, utility and not-for-profit organizations critical to economic growth marketing, services or contacts.

She sits on the Board of the Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association and is a member of The Young Professionals Society of Naples. To contact her, email melanie@napleschamber.org

YOUR #1 RESOURCE FOR EVERYTHING MADE IN SWFL. Southwest Regional Manufacturers Association (SRMA) connects manufacturers with one another and with valuable regional and state resources, including: Employee training Public relations and marketing Legislation and regulation Education and internships Ed Awards and recognition

2201 Second Street, Suite 500 Fort Myers, FL 33901 800-330-3161 • edo@leegov.com LeeCountyBusiness.com

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Visit srma.net or call Neil Kagan at 239-560-0052

SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 15

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

Collier commercial development moving at a steady clip Special to SWFBT Submitted By: Karen P. Moore, Publisher

So, you may wonder, can Collier County continue commercial development, even with environmental restrictions?

Just ask Mark Strain, Chair of the Collier County Planning Commission since 2005 and the county’s chief hearing examiner since 2013. Strain pointed out at a recent meeting of Naples professionals that 77% of Collier County will never be built upon because Collier is one of 12 constrained counties in Florida, due to environmental concerns.

However, that doesn’t mean there won’t be continued commercial growth in the county, he stated.

“The ticket is commercial development, the trend is infill and the market is right now,” Strain observed.

Currently, the biggest project besides the skyrises already underway, is the Gateway Mini Triangle project coming together at the intersection of U.S. 41 East and Davis Blvd., which happens to look more like Miami than Naples. “Because Collier is a constrained county, however,” he reminded his audience, “we’ll certainly never be another Miami.”

Strain also indicated that “mixed use” is becoming an increasingly popular term. Mixed-use projects currently underway or under consideration include a

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com development off Buckingham, and the proposed Magnolia Square Apartments off Goodlette Frank Road, which includes 325 dwelling units. “In Immokalee, East Naples has gotten the most attention for development recently: the next area to get that kind of attention in that part of the county will be Ave Maria.”

In the Rural Stewardship area, he stated, there is a proposal in for a golf course and changes at Ave Maria. As part of the Ave Maria expansion, the Arthrex finishing facility is going in there. Strain noted, “Phase 1 of the Ave Maria expansion project includes 5,000 acres of walkable mixed-use development.” At Bayshore, he shared, the Arboretum project is coming out of the ground, as well as others including the Springs at Hammock Cove and Inspira at Lely.

Submittals for apartments and subdivisions are on the rise across the county as well the development of several senior living facilities. Many projects are at different stages of approval and growth, including Hyde Park Village, Hogan Island, Rivergrass Village and Immokalee Road Rural Village. The Town of Big Cypress is now Rural Lands West. Phase 1 proposes 1,000 acres of mixed-use development, including

2500 residential units, a golf course and some commercial.

“Not surprisingly,” Strain told his audience, “commercial development slowed due to Hurricane Irma.”

For example, there are only eight commercial projects in the eastern part of the county right now, but he feels more will be coming. Nothing has slowed the march of grocery store chains into the county, however, he pointed out.

The most notable local happening in this category, he pointed out, is the seed-to-table grocery store concept local Alfie Oakes is developing in Naples that is not being done anywhere else, and which includes restaurants within the store. Slated to open by the end of 2019, the store will employ 400 people.

Strain’s urban updates include several multi-year projects such as Kalea Bay; Tower 1 is done, Tower 2 is in-process: Naples One is coming: Gateway of Naples (formerly Trio), is a mixed-use project currently in-process, as well as the Mini Triangle project.

In closing, Strain shared that the Collier County Amateur Sports Park is taking shape. It will be done in two phases. The first phase of the project is shovelready and includes five fields, a maintenance building, a welcome center, a market and restrooms. Four hundred and thirty-four multi-family units have also been approved.

Kalea Bay releases its third luxury tower Kalea Bay developer Soave Real Estate, has released pre-construction pricing on its third high-rise, Tower 300.

“Our first tower, Tower 100, has been sold out since it closed in January 2018,” said Inga Lodge, vice president of sales and marketing for Kalea Bay. “Knowing we sold 34 units in Tower 200 last season, and having only about 22 units remain before it is completed in August of next year, we knew now was the perfect time to start sales in Tower 300.”

The development is the newest luxury high-rise community in North Naples, off of Vanderbilt Drive.

Like Tower 100 and Tower 200, Tower 300 will also offer its residents views of the Gulf of Mexico as well as onsite amenities, both on its roof, and at the community’s main amenity area.

Reservations for Tower 300 are now offered with contracts expected in late Fall.

Tower 300 is 22 stories in height and has 120 residences. Specifically, it’s 20 floors of residences over two floors of parking. It will also have similar rooftop amenities as Tower 100 and 200, including a rooftop pool, open-air fitness center and a sky lounge.

Six floor plans are available ranging between three-bedroom plus den/ three-and-a-half-baths to four-bedroom/four-and-a-half-baths. All of the units also range between 3,722 to 3,905 total square feet.

Each residence has an open floor plan that allows the living, dining and kitchen areas to spill out onto an expansive open lanai, to become a true outdoor living room.

Kalea Bay developer Soave Real Estate, has released pre-construction pricTOWER See page 17 ing on its third high-rise, Tower 300.

We Care About SWFL Commercial Realtors With dedicated space for informa�on: • On our website with a Commercial Real Estate sec�on & directory • In our quarterly Commercial RE Market pullout in both the print & digital versions of SWFBT • With zoned and full-run inserts • With guest column opportuni�es • With digital marke�ng op�ons

helping leaders prosper

For more informa�on, call Karen at (239) 770-7527 ®

www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Page 16

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

How did Florida lawmakers treat real estate in 2019?

Business Tax Reduction of the sales tax on commercial leases, now known as the business tax, continues to be a priority for FR and commercial practitioners; since Florida is the only state that charges this tax creating an unfair playing field in Florida. The initial goal was to get the Legislature to stop taxing business in this way, however, over time it became apparent that our best effort would be to work toward reduction of the rate with the goal of phasing it out. Success has been slow, but the rate was reduced in 2018 to 5.7% and effective Jan. 1, 2020 will be reduced to 5.5%. The real value here is that there is some momentum in reducing the rate.

Sadowski Trust Fund The legislative session ended on May 4, and, although the Governor made it a priority to end the raid on the Sadowski Trust Funds for uses other than their intended use, that being affordable housing programs; and, the Senate supported his position, the House did not and the

attempt failed. Only $200 million has been allocated for affordable housing programs, which will include $115 million to assist Panhandle residents whose properties were devastated by Hurricane Michael,

BY CLAUDETTE $7 million will go BRUCK to Jacksonville and Guest Columnist $77 million will be distributed statewide. Clearly, each community must move forward to create their own housing trust funds.

Environmental Projects Environmental concerns such as red tide and blue-green algae have been troubling communities throughout the state. $682 million has been allocated by the legislature to address these issues. $100 million is to be used for springs restoration, $322 million for long overdue restoration of the Ever-

glades and the Agricultural Area Reservoir. Other environmental projects will also be funded.

Remote Notarization Florida joins many states, and, effective January 1, 2020, will allow the use of online remote notaries in real estate transactions making it easier for out of area parties to a transaction.

Expired Permits Closings are sometimes held up by expired and/or open permits, and, in some cases could cause the deal to fall apart. Effective October 1, HB 447 will allow local governments to close a permit six years after its issuance as long as no apparent safety issue exists. It also prevents local governments from penalizing property owners for an open permit that was applied for by a previous owner.

National Flood Insurance Program Reauthorization of the NFIP has long been sought, and, on June 12, the House Financial Service Committee approved the Reauthorization Act; and, it has now been sent to the House of Representatives for consideration. If passed, the program will be extended for 5 years and include long-needed reforms which will strengthen flood mapping, enhance mitigation investments and remove several barriers to private flood insurance options. The last extension is set to expire on September 20, so NAR will continue to push for passage by the House to avoid future short-term extensions and provide much needed improvement.

Unlicensed Real Estate Activity As of July 1, up to $500,000 will be allocated from the Professional Regu-

Claudette Bruck is the Florida CCIM Chapter Legislative Chair. Contact her at (954) 722-0020.

Danielle Hudson joins NABOR as VP of Public Policy The Naples Area Board of Realtors welcomed Danielle Hudson as its new vice president of public policy. In her new role, Hudson will monitor political, legislative and regulatory issues affecting the residential and commercial real estate industries in Collier County.

She will advocate the REALTOR position to local, state and federal government officials and manage the operations of NABOR’s REALTORS Political Action Committee.

Hudson, formerly Global Trade Compliance Director for Allyn International Services, holds a bachelor of arts degree in political science and a master’s degree in international relations from Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island. Be-

It.

It’s Your Future. Own It.

fore joining NABOR, she served in multiple roles within state government, including internships with Gov. David Cicilline of Rhode Island and with Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island in Washington. D.C. “We are delighted to bring Danielle on to the NABOR team”, said NABOR President Jeff Jones.

“NABOR and the real estate community are facing challenges and opportunities – including short-term rental issues. It is a significant benefit that someone of Danielle’s caliber will be assisting NABOR in representing members’ business interests here and in Tallahassee. I am confident Danielle will bring even more success to our association and our industry in her new role as vice president of public policy.”

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Discovery Point opens location in Cape Coral

Discovery Point Child Development Centers, a leading educational childcare franchise, announces an agreement for a new center in Cape Coral.

Discovery Point currently has 47 locations across the Southeastern U.S., with centers in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.

The new center is the latest in a series of recent developments at Discovery Point, which includes the launch of the proprietary Discovery Point Connections curriculum and a more customer-friendly website.

The childcare franchise has also grown its internal team across marketing, design and development, curriculum and franchise development to meet franchise expansion needs.

The Cape Coral center will be owned and operated by Dr. Roger Clough and Robin Clough and is scheduled to open in 2020. The Cloughs are originally from upstate New York.

“We’re delighted to welcome Roger and Robin as the newest members of the Discovery Point franchise family. We’re pleased to be able to introduce our high-quality brand of child care to an entirely new community,” said Cliff Clark, Discovery Point CEO. “We are looking forward to seeing how the Cloughs implement their vision to meet the specific needs of Cape Coral parents and their children.”

Having been a Superintendent of Schools for 11 years in New York State, Roger Clough brings educational experience and expertise to Discovery Point. During his tenure, he helped implement several successful new programs for younger-aged children. These include broadening pre-kindergarten, introducing Junior Kindergarten, and adding reading teachers and teaching assistants in all elementary schools within his district.

“I have always been inspired by the notion that the measure of a civilization is how it treats its youngest members,” said Roger Clough. “Children should experience a learning environment that will help them grow from an infant to an adult. I feel the curriculum programs created by Discovery Point will help nurture so many children at an early age and provide them with the tools they need to succeed in the future.”

Robin Clough worked for the United States Customs Service and Homeland Security for 25 years.

Her roles included a wide variety of administrative and management duties essential to the daily operation of Homeland Security Investigations.

SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 17

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

United Way opens new house in Cape Coral United Way held a ribbon cutting for its United Way House in Cape Coral.

The United Way Houses provide space for agencies to reach clients who may not be able to access services outside of their neighborhood or near their work.

Agencies to be hosted in the Cape Coral House include: SalusCare, Cape Coral Caring Center, Goodwill Job Links Service, Hope Clubhouse, Multiple Sclerosis Center of Southwest Florida, The Salvation Army, Lee County Legal Aid Society and Literacy Council Gulf Coast, with more to come, including Dress For Success Southwest Florida in the new year.

Jeannine Joy, president and CEO of United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades, and Okeechobee, was on hand to speak and provide words of wisdom to the crowd.

“The Cape Coral United Way House will bring much needed services to the people of Cape Coral,” she said.

“We are thrilled to have SalusCare as the host agency and a total of 9 United Way Partners providing services from the location.”

The United Way of Lee, Hendry,

Glades and Okeechobee has raised and distributed over $177 million since its establishment in 1957.

All money raised in the United Way campaign stays in the local community to help support the local human service network. United Way Partner Agencies and initiatives include: The Alvin A Dubin Alzheimer’s Resource Center, Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Harry Chapin Food Bank, the Boys and Girls Clubs, and United Way 211, to mention a few. These agencies serve a diverse range of needs in our community such as nurturing children and youth, strengthening families, and meeting critical needs like helping the elderly and disabled live independently, and empowering communities by bringing health and human services to neighborhoods.

In addition to raising funds for human service organizations in our community, the United Way promotes partnerships and collaborations among agencies and initiatives, helping them to work together focusing on issues and solutions that continue to improve lives.

TOWER PAGE 15

doors that open to large lanais with transparent glass rails.

“We take our outdoor living as seriously as our indoor living with oversized lanais on every residence,” said Lodge. High-tech wiring and fully equipped laundry rooms round out the list of features.

Prices in Tower 300 begin at $1.4 million. In addition to their beautiful homes, residents of Kalea Bay can enjoy their community’s phenomenal clubhouse and all the amenities that surround it.

“It truly is the social and recreational centerpiece of the community,” said Lodge.

“Not only is it a dramatic sight as residents and visitors drive into the community, but it’s the envy of every community in the Naples area.”

Kalea Bay’s 88,000-square-foot main amenity area is located on the north side of the large lake at the community’s entrance.

Kitchens come standard with luxury cabinetry, quartz countertops and an oversized island along with SubZero and Wolf appliances.

“We are extremely fortunate to offer natural gas to the building when many other areas in Naples don’t have that luxury,” said Lodge.

The master bedroom includes an oversized walk-in closet while the master bath has his and hers vanities, quartz countertops, luxury cabinetry, a soaking tub and a glass-enclosed shower.

“Master suites, kitchens and main living areas in most units have direct views to the water and preserve. They are perfect vantage points to watch our spectacular sunsets,” Lodge said.

Additional residential features include floor-to-ceiling windows and

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Conditioned Air to expand Lee/Charlotte operations Conditioned Air Company of Naples announced plans to build a 52,710-square-foot operations center in Fort Myers to accommodate the air-conditioning contracting and service firm’s current and future growth throughout Southwest Florida.

The building will be located at the intersection of Jetport Loop and Global Parkway in the Southwest International Commerce Park just across from the Southwest Florida International Airport and will provide easy access to Interstate-75. The building will encompass approximately 10,800 square feet of office space, 31,110 square feet of warehouse space, and 10,800 square feet of mezzanine for storage and future expansion.

The building will be Conditioned Air’s central hub for the growing Lee and Charlotte County markets and provide operational support for Tombstone5x8 BA Group 2.pdf 2 2/11/19 its Naples headquarters and Sarasota

branches.

It also will serve as the company’s main training facility with a fully functional training lab for hands on continuous education and onboarding of entry-level technicians.

The new operations center will replace an existing smaller facility nearby on Jetport Loop. Permitting is currently underway on the location.

It is anticipated that ground will be broken on the site in October with completion and occupancy scheduled for July 2020.

The building, which is designed by the architectural firm of McHarris Planning & Design and will be built and developed by Seagate Development Group, will feature a dramatic exterior that is similar to Conditioned Air’s recently renovated corporate office in Naples.

“We designed this building specifically with our brand in mind,” said 12:04 PM Tim Dupre, president and CEO.

Lake Michigan Credit Union Commercial Banking announces the following loans: Loan Size ......... $4,500,000 Type of Loan ...... Refinance of a retail center Business............ Developer Loan Size ......... $18,000,000 Type of Loan ...... Construction/Perm ........................ Owner Occupied Business............ 10th Street Collective (various businesses)

Learn more, contact William M. Blevins | EVP Commercial Lending West Florida Region (239) 314-0550 | William.Blevins@LMCU.org

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Page 18

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

COMMERCIAL RE MARKET A look at commercial real estate trends and topics in Southwest Florida

280-unit apartment community in Fort Myers now complete

Aileron Capital announced it completed development on Grand Central, a 280-unit class A apartment community in Fort Myers. The community features luxury appointments that are not found in the immediate area. Unique features of the property include an interior courtyard with a pool, a resident barbeque area and a double-gated dog park with running water. Grand Central is located on S. Cleveland Avenue.

Community managers are currently accepting deposits for rentals of 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom units.

Grand Central is part of a larger 18-acre mixed-use project that is also developed by Aileron Capital. The project is inclusive of over 10,000 square feet of retail space and contains one of the fastest growing Krispy Kreme Doughnuts franchises in the United States. Ai-

For more business news, visit www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com

leron Capital worked closely with the city of Fort Myers and its Economic Development Corporation on the $50-million project with an intent of spurring additional development interest in the area.

Aileron Capital is currently developing multiple other projects in the Southwest Florida area including Liberty Health Park, a 32-acre mixed-use project and Midtown, a 90-unit Class A apartment community.

Aileron Capital past projects in the area include Channelside, a 28-acre site in Fort Myers, and Santa Barbra Retail Center, a 4,800-square-foot retail center in Cape Coral. Additional announcements on the development

GBT brings Sprouts to Estero Grande

Marine Arts Gallery opens new location Marine Arts Gallery opened the doors to its new location at Promenade at Bonita Bay on Aug.1. The venue of original fine art and collectibles resides on South Bay Drive in Bonita Springs.

Marine Arts Gallery carries 19thcentury marine paintings, as well as still life, floral work and contemporary pieces from marine artists whose work has been displayed throughout the country. They include Richard Loud, John Stobart, Terry Bailey,

of these properties will be released soon.

“The CRA is extremely proud to be partnered with Aileron Investment Management to give birth to the Grand Central Apartments Project. This option elevates the rental opportunities available in our Cleveland Avenue redevelopment area, located in the City of Fort Myers, and most important, it transformed a site that had out lived it’s productive use into a community that will enhance the Cleveland Avenue commercial corridor,” said Michele Hylton-Terry, executive director of the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency.

“We are very excited to announce the opening of Grand Central,” said Bob Beard, manager of Aileron Capital. “This has been a challenging project, but we are extremely happy with the finished product.”

Dusan Kadlec, Ronalee Crocker, Marina Dieul, Shane Couch, Robert Bolster, Jack Saylor, Cindy House, Jim Plesh, Emile Gruppe, Jack Gray and A.E. Backus.

Marine Arts Gallery services include framing, restoration, appraisals, discreet purchases, shipping and in-store and in-home consultations for painting selection and placement.

For more information on the gallery, call (239) 261-0000 or visit marineartsgallery.com

GBT Realty Corporation announced the next location of Sprouts Farmers Market at Estero Grande, a 30-acre mixed-use development at the intersection of Estero Parkway and US Highway 41/South Tamiami Trail in Lee County. Site work is now underway with vertical construction expected by October.

“Estero is becoming the retail epicenter of Southwest Florida primarily due to the community’s high standards for quality design of its

mixed-used developments,” said Jeff Pape, managing director, Shopping Center and Diversified Divisions, GBT Realty.

Expected to open Spring 2020, the 30,000-square-foot grocery store is situated immediately north of the primary entrance to Estero Grande.

At Sprouts, approximately 90% of its healthy products are natural or organic and include an extensive line of gluten-free, plant-based, grass-fed, non-GMO and raw items.

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SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 19

Fayer awarded Women in Business APEX Award Kelly L. Fayer was named 2019 APEX Awards recipient at the annual event of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee. The APEX Awards recognize local women with outstanding reputations for professionalism, philanthropy and leadership.

The 14th annual APEX Awards event was held Aug. 16 in Cape Coral. The evening gala honored five finalists and recognized all nominees before naming Fayer the APEX Awards recipient.

“The APEX Awards recognize women in the community who excel at making our community a great place to live and work,” said Kelly Talamo, co-chair of the 2019 awards.

“It’s great to be able to support women in business with networking opportunities, educational programs and recognition.”

Fayer established The Law Offices of Kelly L. Fayer, P.A. in 2006. She is the founder of #KindLee, past president of the Lee County Bar Association, board member of the Lee County Bar Association Foundation, founding member and vice president of the Miguel C. Fernandez III Hispanic Bar Association, treasurer of CAMEO of Lee County, board member of Hope Clubhouse of Southwest Florida, honorary board member of the Guardian ad Litem Foundation, and master of Calusa Inn of Court. For over 10 years, Fayer has also represented victims of domestic violence as a grant attorney for Abuse Counseling & Treatment.

The finalists were Kathleen O. Berkey, shareholder attorney and certified land planner, Becker & Poliakoff; Kerri A. Goldsmith, financial advisor, HBKS Wealth Advisors; Julie Koester, founder, managing partner and president, Dragon Horse Ad Agency; and Karen L. Mosteller, business consulting and technology partner, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Co. Berkey serves on the board of directors for Keep Lee County Beautiful, as co-chair of the Women’s Leadership Initiative of the Urban Land Institute of Southwest Florida and on the Breastfeeding Accommodations Committee of MothersEsquire.

thwest Florida BuSiNESS ToDay

November 2013

Kelly L. Fayer was named 2019 APEX Awards recipient at the annual event of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Committee.

Goldsmith has served in leadership roles for industry associations and nonprofit organizations over the last several decades, and currently is the president-elect of Rotary Club of Fort Myers South.

Koester has volunteered with the Conservancy, chaired the MS Walk, led the Columbia University Alumni Association, been a Guardian ad Litem and is the founding board chair of the Children’s Museum of Naples.

Mosteller is an experienced presenter and has been a speaker at several national conferences as well as local business groups, in addition to serving on several boards, committees and professional organizations. She generously shares her knowledge and insight with aspiring entrepreneurs as an active volunteer and board member with the Small Business Development Center at FGCU. Part of the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, the Women in Business committee is dedicated to helping women achieve their fullest professional and personal potential.

Over 50 Years of Quality and Dependability S4J Manufacturing S4J Manufacturing Services, Inc., established in 1965, is a second generation, family owned company specializing in the production of ultra precision components, reusable Luer Lock connectors, Quick Connects, and miscellaneous adapters. Our customers, over 1,000 companies worldwide, are typically Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) of medical equipment and devices for biomedical and laboratory applications.

We are committed to keeping abreast of the ever changing demands of the medical industry, and have been leaders in the design of new products and materials to meet these demands.

We encourage our customers to communicate their needs and strive to develop solid working relationships. We are always interested in hearing ideas on how we may improve our products or our services.

ng n

Mission

Our mission is to manufacture the highest quality parts at a fair price with on-time delivery. In order to achieve your acceptance and to continue our record breaking sales, we promise to strive toward the following goals: • Our adherence to speci�ications is the strictest in the industry. We maintain the tightest tolerances using state of the art CNC machinery.

• Our Quality Management System is registered to ISO 9001:2015.

• Our knowledgeable, courteous customer service and technical staff is County. As a custom To find out more, vist available to ManufacturingInLee.com assist customers with questions about inventory, pricing, ents, they benefit delivery andorproduct speci�ications, including our capabilities to meet call 239.338.3161 g programs in our your unique needs.

overnment. Our

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Strategic Vision

Our customers are the innovators in their respective medical equipment markets, as well as other industries. Our job is to be the “go to” source for the components needed to achieve their goals. We strive to provide the highest quality precision-turned products, such as the luer Lee County’s Economic Development Office �itting and the miniature quick connect, by staying current in our manufacturing techniques and equipment, sourcing the optimal tooling, and meeting delivery expectations.

As we are often a “sole source supplier” to many companies, we understand our responsibility in helping our customers meet their regulatory requirements in addition to maintaining stable pricing, reliable quality and on-time delivery.

AWARD PAGE 1 have been collected. Businesses can nominate themselves or be nominated by a third party.

To qualify, the for-profit business must have been in operation for at least three years under the same ownership with principal office located in Lee, Collier or Charlotte County, employ five to 400 people and have overcome adversity to achieve success. The award ceremony will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 6 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs.

Registration for the event is free visit 2019BlueChipCommunityBusinessAward. eventbrite.com. To submit an application, contact Stacey Mercado at (239) 433-7189 or SMercado@mcgriffinsurance.com.

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S4J Manufacturing Services, Inc. operated in New Jersey for 35 years.

In September of 1999 we relocated to Cape Coral, Florida. This facility was designed around the product lines we manufacture, complete with the ability to �inish in house our brass components which are electroless nickel plated. The result is a dedicated facility for the manufacture of �ittings from bar stock to completed, ready to ship, components.

We eliminate the pain of non-value-added activities for all who buy material, add value to it and ship it to their customers.

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Page 20

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

FPRA Southwest Florida Chapter wins 18 awards at state conference The Florida Public Relations Association honored the Southwest Florida Chapter with several awards at FPRA’s 81st Annual Conference.

The Golden Image Awards is conducted annually to recognize outstanding public relations programs in Florida, during the last year, and to encourage and promote the development of public relations professionalism.

Public Service Category Awards of Distinction and a Judge’s Award went to Jennifer J. Edwards, Heather Doane and Trish Robertson of the Collier County Supervisor of Elections for “Millennial Votes Matter”; Albert Arguelles and Randy Mitchelson, of iPartner Media for “Hashtag Southwest

Florida Challenge – #SWFLchallenge.”

Award of Distinction went to CONRIC PR & Marketing for “Faces of Hope at Work.”

Institutional Category A Judges’ Award went to Spiro & Associates for “Eat.Clay.Love.”

Public Information Category A Golden Image Award and a Judge’s Award went to Lee Health Strategic Communications and Public Relations Department for the “Lee Health Coconut Point Media Tour.”

Promotional/Marketing Category An Award of Distinction went to LCEC for “LCEC SmartHub.” Integrated Marketing Category An Award of Distinction went to Jen-

nifer J. Edwards, Heather Doane, Trish Robertson of the Collier County Supervisor of Elections for “Collier Votes Local.”

Public Affairs Category An Award of Distinction went to Priority Marketing and The School District of Lee County for the “Change for Change Campaign.”

Printed Tools of Public Relations A Golden Image Award and a Judge’s Award went to Priority Marketing and The Guadalupe Center for the “Guadalupe Center Video Brochure with Printed Insert.”

Video: Institutional Category A Judges’Award went to Priority Marketing and Conservancy of Southwest Florida for “Conservancy of Southwest

Florida’s Magic Under the Mangroves, 2018 Fund-A-Need Video.”

Video: Promotional/Marketing Category An Award of Distinction went to Priority Marketing for “Priority Marketing: FAQ Fridays.”

Website Category An Award of Distinction and a Judge’s Award went to Spiro & Associates and LCEC Public Relations for the “LCEC Website.”

Public Relations Campaign Category Awards of Distinction and a Judge’s Award went to Fabiana Solano for “FGCU PAGES.” FPRA SWFL was also the winner of the 2019 Chapter Challenge.

SIGN PAGE 4

your marketing dollars.

If you need to know something, how to do something, what is the related law, what would look best, etc., give us a call. Challenge us with your entire sign budget.

sources to attack any size job and in the case of contractors, be very responsive to inspection resolutions.

But you knew there was going to be another reason to pick this larger sign company. It’s our graphic artists. They are the people that bring your marketing ideas to life. The signage industry today has a digital answer to anything and everything. A short discussion with a graphic artist will help you maximize

LAWSUIT PAGE 3 ticultural debris after Hurricane Irma.

Crowder Gulf paid MW Horticulture a total of $479,315 to take in mulched” horticulture debris from Lee County at its North Fort Myers and South Fort Myers locations after Irma.

including a better way of doing business.

Len Ciarrocchi is the owner of both Municipal Supply & Sign and Signarama-Naples. He is the former EVP and CFO for CCC Information Services.

He joined the sign industry in 2005.

Contact him at (239) 262-4639 or sales@municipalsigns.com.

Only 12% of the County’s debris was sent to MW Horticulture’s North Fort Myers site. Meanwhile, 15% was sent to MW Horticulture’s South Fort Myers site.

The sheer volume of debris presently on the North Fort Myers site indicates that only a small fraction of the debris came from Lee County.

WE MAKE BANKING ABOUT YOU!

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Like Thomas Edison,

we believe there is always “a better way.” To us, that means being attentive, invested and involved in the efforts of our community’s business leaders as we provide them with commercial lending services that empower them to reach their goals.

We’re Standing Strong with Money to Lend. Experience the benefits of joining Edison National Bank/ Bank of the Islands.

To learn more about our customer services and convenient locations, please visit EdisonNationalBank.com or call 239.466.1800.

An Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC | Bank of the Islands is an office of Edison National Bank.

SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

Page 21

MANUFACTURING

Pelican Wire goes from ‘Mom & Pop’ to global presence

Within the history of Pelican Wire, you will find all the makings of the ‘American Success Story’. In 1969, when Larry and Theresa Bill started Pelican Wire, there were more questions than answers, but Larry knew he could make a better wire product within the niche industry of custom Thermocouple & Resistance wire manufacturing. He was right.

Larry and Theresa were drawn to Southwest Florida for the laid-back lifestyle, the warm climate, and the great fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Located in Naples, since 1976, the current operation has 85 employees operating out of a 33,000-square-foot facility in White Lakes Commerce Park since 2004.

When Larry passed away in 2008, Theresa and their son, Ted, formulated a strategy to fulfill Larry’s wish of making Pelican Wire an employee-owned company. Ted, who had gone off to college and was fully embarked on his own successful career path, chose to come home and take the reins as President of Pelican Wire, guiding them through a new corporate structure, as well as assuming all

Located in Naples, since 1976, Pelican Wire has 85 employees operating out of a 33,000-square-foot facility in White Lakes Commerce Park. other duties awaiting him at the helm. plications.

For more business news, visit “Anywhere you need heat or need “Certainly, those early days were a www.swfloridabusinesstoday.com to control temperature you will find real challenge,” says Ted. “We were taking a financially-viable business model a system that Larry would be proud to be our products. Because what we do is so technical and unique, we are usually and turning it on its ear during the mid- associated with.”

Since that 2008 ownership program involved with our customer early on in dle of the greatest recession in our lifetimes. In order to create the model, we launch, Pelican Wire has continued to their product design,” says Ted. Acquisitions has also been central to envisioned, there was a large amount of develop custom wire solutions for cuslegal work involved and numerous fi- tomers across the globe, while also rep- the growth strategy of the company. In nancial dealings to navigate, in order to resenting industries as far-ranging as 2014 Pelican acquired Rubadue Wire, assemble our Employee Stock Owner- automotive, alternate energy, military another family-owned wire manufacship Program. It was a tremendous un- and defense, radiant heating, oil and gas turer, based in Greeley, Colorado. The PELICAN See page 22 dertaking, but in the end, I think we built sectors and countless other industrial ap-

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Page 22

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

PELICAN PAGE 21 acquisition helped diversify revenue streams, widen product offerings and capture a deep pool of ‘tribal knowledge.’

“While technology continues to offer improvements in many aspects of our business, some of the core principles around wire manufacturing remain true to their decades-old principles. An opportunity to bring that knowledge inhouse provides us a competitive edge in all departments of the company,” says Brinson White, Director of Engineering.

In 2016, Chicago-based KerriganLewis Wire was acquired by Pelican

Wire, with their equipment and production capabilities integrated into the existing Florida and Colorado facilities.

An additional opportunity came up in 2018 when Pelican Wire purchased a portion of Watlow Electric’s ‘ServRite’ thermocouple wire product line.

“We anticipate growth,” states Ted, “and these acquisition opportunities only solidify our upward mobility within those market segments we serve. We also continue to develop new markets and new opportunities across the globe and believe we’ve positioned Pelican Wire to be a major player in the custom wire industry for decades to come.”

For information, call (239) 597-8555 or visit PelicanWire.com.

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SEPTEMBER 2019

CONRIC PR & Marketing provides creative public relations, marketing, graphic design, advertising, writing and publishing services to people and businesses in the Southwest Florida community.

Digital advertising key to marketing success Whether you’ve been in business for many years or are just starting out, it’s vital to understand the tools of success you have at your disposal.

Digital advertising is rapidly becoming more important to harness than any other tool.

Digital advertising is an effective form of marketing and advertising that uses the power of the internet to deliver messages to customers. It’s still important to advertise in print media, but digital advertising allows you to reach the right audience with the right message at the right time. Digital ads leverage the popularity of wellknown sites like Facebook, Instagram, Google, YouTube and more.

Advertising on these sites can be personalized to seamlessly maximize relevance to your target customer. An effective campaign can serve an ad to the most compatible consumers and lead them directly to your own site and business in a nonintrusive way.

Unlike traditional advertising, digital advertising is exceptionally cost-ef-

fective. Digital ads help business owners stick to their budget and offer the matchless reach of social media. The cost of boosting impressions or clicks can be much smaller than the outlay for a printed ad that may or may not be seen by your ideal customer.

There’s nothing better than measurable results. Digital advertising makes it easy for business owners to check on their campaigns at any given time. Analytics allow you to quickly track how many users clicked on your content, opened it, referred it, shared it, etc.

Digital advertising offers real-time results, and armed with that knowledge, you can tailor your campaign precisely to your needs.

CONRIC PR & Marketing provides creative public relations, marketing, graphic design, advertising, writing and publishing services to people and businesses in the Southwest Florida community. Call (239) 690-9840 or visit conricpr.com to start your digital advertising campaign today.

EMPOWERING BUSINESS SUCCESS BUSINESS SUMMIT

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DON’T MISS OUR EXCITING LINE-UP OF TOPICS: • Cyber Security • The Power of PRE-Suasion

oin the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce for its

sixth annual Business Summit featuring a variety of enlightening

and interactive presentations and workshops to empower business success! This year’s keynote address is “Communicate Your Way to Success,” by entrepreneur, business coach and international speaker Jason Evers. The summit’s exciting line-up also includes nine valuable breakout sessions led by local experts and business leaders.

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Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. • $179 per person Reduced rates offered for multiple registrations.

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• The Value of Internships • Medical Marijuana in the Workplace • Networking & Business Relationships • Dynamic Communication & Interpersonal Skills • Using Video to Effectively Promote Your Business • Policy & Procedure Development for the Current Workforce • How to Use Multiple Online Data Sources to Innovate your Recruiting, Create Competitive Position Pricing and Hire Like a Pro

REGISTER TODAY! • www.fortmyers.org • (239) 332-2930

SEPTEMBER 2019

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

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Page 24

Southwest Florida BUSINESS TODAY®

SEPTEMBER 2019

Beyond Fast is viewing all your businesses from anywhere.

There are basic video monitoring services;'. and then there are intelligent systems that go beyond the usual. Comcast Business SmartOffice™ video monitoring features HD cameras that automatically upload captured footage to the cloud. Most importantly, it comes with a mobile app that allows you to monitor your entire business from wherever you are, whenever you wish. It's time to go beyond low-res video to images so sharp and so accessible, they can help protect your business.

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