Wednesday's Afternoon Update
Small Businesses Continue to Lead Job Creation
The private sector added 179,000 new jobs in May, down from 220,000 the month earlier, according to the latest ADP National Employment Report. Small businesses, however, added 82,000 workers to their payrolls in May, an increase over April’s numbers, which were revised down from 82,000 to 76,000. More at FOX Business.
See also:
» US service firms grow at fastest pace since August
Florida arts groups see biggest budget windfall in a decade
Florida playhouses, museums and performance groups have spent years grasping for cash, the dry economic climate felt not only at ticket windows but also at the state funding level. Relief came as part of Scott's $77 billion state budget, the largest in Florida history. More at the Tampa Bay Times.
Miami struggling to attract film productions
After two legislative sessions without allotting additional funds for movie and television industry tax credits, Florida filmmakers are looking for new ways to attract productions to the state. More at the Miami Herald and Miami Today.
AutoNation's sales in May were best since 2006
With its May sales of new vehicles at their highest level since 2006, AutoNation plans to add another store to what's already the country's biggest dealership network. The Fort Lauderdale-based chain said Wednesday that it has agreed to buy Roundtree Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Mobile, Ala. More at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Florida business owners weigh in on new hires, retaining talent
A new study by BMO Harris Bank found that two of the most critical strategies in retaining talented employees — other than salary — are to offer flexible hours and opportunities for education, training and development. More at the Orlando Business Journal.