Zach’s Corner
Zach’s Commercial Realestate Corner. Features news, thoughts on Florida’s Commercial Real Estate and more.
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ALDI Opens New Milton, FL Store: Grand Opening, Gift Cards & Local Impact
Milton, Florida, is welcoming a new ALDI location, marking another step in the grocery chain’s continued expansion across the Sunshine State. The grand opening features traditional ribbon-cutting festivities, promotional giveaways for early shoppers, and the promise of a low-cost grocery alternative for nearby communities. Highlights of the Grand Opening ALDI offered gift bags and gift cards to the first 100 customers as part of the celebration. A $500 ALDI gift card is being used as a promotional prize, adding a bit of excitement around the opening event. The Milton address for the new store is 5428 Dogwood Drive. ALDI has listed this Milton location among its new stores on its “Grand Openings” page, confirming it as part of the chain’s wider growth plan in Florida. What This Means for Milton & the Region Images Courtesy of Aldi’s Competition & Grocery Options ALDI’s arrival brings added competition to the local grocery market. For residents who already use regional chains or local supermarkets, a new ALDI means: More options for lower-cost or discount grocery shopping. Potential for pricing adjustments or promotions from nearby grocers trying to retain market share. A draw for price-conscious shoppers, especially in areas where food costs are a concern. Real Estate & Commercial…
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A New Landmark in Brandon: Drury Plaza Hotel Tampa Brandon Coming in 2026
Located conveniently off of I-75 – Google Maps Brandon is about to make a big statement in hospitality. The Drury Plaza Hotel Tampa Brandon is on track to open in the fall of 2026, bringing a brand-new, eight-story, 210-room property to 802 South Falkenburg Road, just off I-75 and steps away from the Brandon Exchange shopping district. The project is backed by Drury’s development arm, which has confirmed the structural specs — a post-tension concrete design with plenty of room to welcome both business and leisure guests. What really stands out here is the mix of amenities Drury is packing in. Guests can expect the brand’s signature free hot breakfast and the popular 5:30 Kickback® featuring complimentary evening snacks and drinks. Add in free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a 24-hour business and fitness center, outdoor pool and spa, plus a late-night Kitchen + Bar, and it’s clear Drury is aiming to create a hub that works for both families and business travelers. On the events side, the hotel will include 2,500 square feet of meeting space with flexible policies and no food and beverage minimums — something that should appeal to local businesses and organizations. Strategically, this is a milestone…
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Florida Repeals the Commercial Lease Tax: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
Big news for Florida’s real estate and business community: starting October 1, 2025, the state will eliminate the sales tax on commercial lease payments. This marks the end of the so-called Business Rent Tax, a unique levy that Florida was the only state to broadly impose on commercial tenants. Why the Change Matters For decades, tenants in Florida paid sales tax not just on their rent but also on many pass-through expenses like property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. While the rate has been gradually reduced in recent years, it still created a cost burden that made leasing more expensive compared to other states. With the repeal, Florida businesses will see meaningful cost savings. That could encourage expansion, attract new investment, and improve the state’s competitiveness in industries ranging from retail to logistics. Key Details of the Repeal Effective Date: October 1, 2025. Rent due for occupancy periods on or after this date will no longer be subject to state or local sales tax. Transition Rule: The tax is based on the occupancy period, not when payment is made. For example, October rent is exempt, but September rent remains taxable even if paid in October. Exceptions: The repeal does not apply to short-term residential rentals (less than six…
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Fed Cuts Rates for First Time in 2025: What It Means for Real Estate & Business
On September 17, 2025, the Federal Reserve made its first move toward easing in nearly a year, cutting its benchmark federal funds rate by a quarter point to a new range of 4.00%–4.25%. This is the first rate cut since December of 2024, and it signals a shift in tone as the Fed looks to support an economy showing signs of strain. What really stood out to me was not just the cut itself, but the messaging around it: Fed officials indicated that two more quarter-point cuts could follow before the year ends. The lone dissent came from Stephen Miran, the Fed’s newest board member, who argued for a larger half-point reduction—underscoring how divided the outlook remains. So why now? The job market has clearly softened over the past few months, with hiring slowing and unemployment nudging higher. At the same time, inflation is still running hotter than the Fed’s 2% target, but it has been easing slightly. The Fed is walking a tightrope here—trying to protect employment and economic momentum without letting inflation flare back up. As Chair Powell and his colleagues have emphasized, the risks to employment are becoming more material, and that was enough to tip the…
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North Port’s Rapid Growth Creates Opportunity for Prime US-41 Land Site
NORTH PORT, FL — North Port has quickly become one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities, transforming from a quiet Gulf Coast community into a vibrant hub for housing, commerce, and business expansion. With a population that has surged nearly 19% since 2020 and is projected to keep climbing, the city is attracting national retailers, healthcare providers, and major employers seeking long-term growth. Amid this surge, a 3-acre commercial site at 12580 S. Tamiami Trail (US-41) is now available for purchase — presenting a rare opportunity to secure frontage along one of Sarasota County’s most dominant retail corridors. North Port FL Commercial Land for Sale | Prime US-41 Retail Site Why North Port is Booming Population Growth: The city now has more than 88,000 residents, with strong household incomes averaging $97,528 within 5 miles. Healthcare Investment: Sarasota Memorial Hospital is building a major new acute-care campus in North Port, cementing the area as a regional healthcare hub. Business Expansion: More than 300 new businesses have opened in the past two years, strengthening the local economy and diversifying services. Infrastructure Development: Investments in I-75 corridors, utility expansions, and a new business park are unlocking thousands of acres for future growth. About the Site Size: 3 acres Zoning: Commercial General — suitable for retail, medical, automotive,…
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From Buckets to Burrito Bowls: Chipotle Drive-Thru Moves Into Largo
Largo, FL – August 2025 – Big changes are happening just minutes from Indian Rocks Beach. The old KFC at 13677 Walsingham Road is getting a full makeover, and by this winter, it’ll reopen as a brand-new Chipotle Mexican Grill. For locals and beachgoers alike, it means burritos, tacos, and bowls are about to be much closer to the sand. Formerly a KFC by Indian From Fried Chicken to Fire-Roasted Flavor The new Chipotle Largo opening is more than just a facelift—it’s a $400,000 renovation of the 2,885-square-foot building that once served up fried chicken. Inside, there will be seating for 46 people, plus room for 12 more on a breezy outdoor patio—perfect for grabbing a bite after a beach day. The Chipotlane Difference One standout feature of this location is the Chipotlane drive-thru. Designed for mobile pickup orders, it’s Chipotle’s way of making fresh food even faster. Nearly 30% of Chipotle restaurants worldwide already have one, and about 80% of new openings this year include the drive-thru. For Largo, it means burrito bowls and guac on the go without leaving your car. Who’s Making It Happen The redesign is led by Dungan Design Group out of Kansas, while Strategic…
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A New Walmart Neighborhood Market is Coming to Palmetto
Palmetto, FL – August 2025 – Big news for local shoppers: a brand-new Walmart Neighborhood Market is headed to Palmetto. The store is planned for 6100 Buckeye Road, in a future retail plaza off Artisan Lakes Parkway near the Artisan Palmetto Retail West plaza, adding fresh energy to one of Manatee County’s fastest-growing retail corridors. Future Location for New Walmart Neighborhood Market What’s on the Way Unlike the giant supercenters, Walmart’s Neighborhood Market format focuses on groceries, fresh foods, and everyday essentials—making it a convenient one-stop shop for nearby residents. The Artisan Palmetto Retail West plaza is already becoming a hub of retail activity, and the addition of Walmart is expected to bring more foot traffic, new jobs, and synergy for surrounding businesses. Why It Matters for Palmetto This project speaks to some larger shifts we’re seeing in the region: Convenience First: People want fresh food and groceries close to home. Population Growth: With more people moving east of Bradenton, demand for retail and grocery options keeps climbing. Community Impact: Beyond shopping, stores like this often become gathering points—another anchor in Palmetto’s evolving retail landscape. Looking Ahead While construction timelines and opening dates haven’t been finalized, this development represents another…
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Clearwater Brewing Company Reopens: Craft Beer, Community, and a Fresh Start in Downtown Clearwater
Clearwater, FL — August 2025 — The wait is over for craft beer lovers in Pinellas County. Clearwater Brewing Company has officially reopened its doors in downtown Clearwater, bringing fresh brews, a new look, and a strong community spirit to the local craft beer scene. After being closed for two years, the brewery has returned with new owners, modern upgrades, and a renewed mission to serve as a hub for locals and visitors alike. A Clearwater Craft Brewery with Local Roots Located at 1700 N. Fort Harrison Avenue, just steps away from the Pinellas Trail and a short drive from Clearwater Beach, Clearwater Brewing Company has been a beloved destination for years. Originally established inside a repurposed 1950s Gulf gas station, the brewery has always combined historic charm with the laid-back vibe that defines Florida’s craft beer culture. Photo courtesy of Facebook Now under the leadership of Hannah and Robert Menard (owners of Reefer’s Social Club on Clearwater Beach), along with partners Brian Thompson and Shane Seagle, the brewery is making a strong comeback. The new ownership team has invested in expanding production, improving the space, and building a more family- and community-friendly atmosphere. Grand Reopening Draws Hundreds Photo courtesy of Facebook The brewery’s grand reopening on August 14, 2025, drew more than 300…
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ICSC@FLORIDA 2025 in Orlando: Meet LQ Commercial Real Estate at Booth #2041
Excitement is building for ICSC@FLORIDA 2025, the premier regional gathering for retail real estate professionals, set for August 24–26, 2025, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. This annual convention brings together the top players in the industry to network, share market insights, and explore new opportunities in the Florida and Southeast retail markets. Meet LQ Commercial Real Estate at Booth #2041 Paul Rutledge, Senior Broker Associate, and Zach Ellis, Associate, of LQ Commercial Real Estate will be on-site to meet developers, investors, landlords, and retailers. Whether you’re scouting new sites, seeking representation, or exploring investment opportunities, stop by Booth #2041 to connect and discuss how LQ CRE can help you achieve your retail and land development goals. Contact Information: Paul Rutledge – Senior Broker AssociateD: 813.999.1942 | C: 941.228.2198 | prutledge@lqcre.com Zachary Ellis – AssociateD: 813.540.3320 | C: 813.493.3437 | zellis@lqcre.com What Attendees Can Expect at ICSC@FLORIDA Networking & Deal-Making: A chance to connect with top developers, brokers, retailers, and investors shaping the retail landscape. Signature Events: Topgolf Get-Together – Sunday, August 24, kicks off the convention with casual networking. Breaking Down a Deal – Educational session walking through a real property transaction. Exhibit Hall: Hundreds of exhibitors,…
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Tampa Lights Up for 813 Day: A Celebration of Local Culture, Community, and Pride
TAMPA, FL — August 13, 2025 — It’s Tampa’s unofficial holiday: 813 Day, observed each year on August 13 as a nod to the city’s iconic 813 telephone area code. More than just a number, 813 has become a symbol of local identity — a way for residents to celebrate the people, businesses, and traditions that make Tampa unique. From bustling downtown festivities to neighborhood deals and community projects, today’s events capture the full flavor of Tampa Bay. Community Events & Citywide Festivities 813 Day Bash — Visit Tampa Bay is hosting a midday celebration at the Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center (201 N. Franklin Street) from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Expect food tastings, sports mascots, giveaways, and free T-shirts for the first 20 attendees. Sparkman Wharf Celebration — The waterfront destination comes alive tonight with live music, local vendors, and signature food and drink offerings. In past years, photos at the iconic “TAMPA” sign have even supported donations to the historic Tampa Theatre. Tampa Bay History Center Specials — Visitors today can apply the price of admission toward an annual membership and enjoy discounts in the museum store. River Cleanup with the Litter Skimmer Boat — Hosted by…
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