
Small businesses are the backbone of America, largely run by involved owners who care for their employees, who in turn give their best every day. It’s those companies that survived, and some even thrived, during the coronavirus pandemic. Three such companies will be honored on September 30 as finalists for the Central Florida Development Council’s […]

As Polk County continues to grow, having adequate health care for our 725,000+ residents is critical to attracting and retaining businesses. Five hospitals are located in the county, along with numerous large health care providers like Central Florida Health Care and clinics like Watson and Bond. But they aren’t resting on their laurels. Following are […]

Preliminary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for June 2021 shows 331,000 people are in the labor force and 309,000 people are employed, both the highest on record. About 22,000 people are without jobs. The county’s job market has increased about 3% over the last year, and it’s predicted to increase 42.5% in the […]

At a time when Polk County is celebrating its highest level of employment and a low unemployment rate, CareerSource Polk honored awardees for their role in contributing to workforce and economic development initiatives. CareerSource Polk, a non-profit workforce development board, honored several champions of economic prosperity during their Best Places to Work event. Included as […]

Margaritaville is coming to Polk County, as Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins joining the Cabana Club RV Resort in Auburndale through a rebrand coming in early 2022. The addition of the notable Margaritaville brand will continue providing locals and cross-country travelers a way to unwind and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle in a high-class, […]

Four Polk County business people have been recognized for their accomplishments and leadership skills at a young age — all are under 40. Appearing on the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list are: Michelle Netwal, executive vice president and chief financial officer (CFO) at Bank of Central Florida. Chris Chambers, Security & Emergency […]

Originally published on ExpansionSolutions.com When your business has access to 10 million people within 100 miles while in an area with an alluring business climate and explosive population growth, success follows. There’s a reason why Publix Super Markets, Legoland Florida Resorts, Florida’s Natural, Nucor Steel Florida and Amazon Air all call Polk County home. Ideally […]

According to the latest Census, Polk County grew faster than the state and the nation over the last decade, increasing in population 20.4% from 2010. That means we grew to 725,046 people, up from 602,095. That growth outpaced: Florida’s 15% increase. Nearly 21.5 million people now call Florida home, an increase of 2.7 million people […]

The Cabana Club is changing the way RVers settle in for the night, offering a high-class, luxury resort that includes numerous amenities and the perfect location to travel to nearby tourist destinations. Randy Knapp, CEO of RLK Real Estate & Development, developed the 66-acre site near Lake Myrtle in Auburndale to attract those who arrive […]

Joe P. Ruthven’s first crack at owning his own business, the OK Tires shop in Lakeland, may be why The Ruthvens remain committed to helping small and medium-size businesses find the perfect location to grow. “We kind of always had our heart in it for the smaller guy, and it’s great to watch them grow,” […]