Florida Trend | Florida's Business Authority

Tuesday's Afternoon Update

Small business borrowing jumps in May

U.S. small businesses boosted borrowing for a third straight month in May, driving the Thomson Reuters/PayNet Small Business Lending Index to its highest in more than seven years. The increase, to 127.1 from 125.4, suggests small business owners continue to see demand rising and are investing in their firms. More at Reuters.

See also:
» Small business job growth near record high
» Small businesses in the Southeast see brighter outlook


John Morgan increases funding for medical marijuana fight

The fight to legalize medical marijuana in Florida this November is getting more money from the man who first pushed the mission: John Morgan. The prominent attorney has kicked in an additional $4 million of his own money. More at WTSP.


BBX buys another chocolatier

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Profiles of Florida-based companies with a true national -- and in some cases international -- name identity. Some of the companies profiled include TupperwareBoar’s HeadLennar,Elizabeth Arden, Rooms to GoHSN and more...

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BBX Capital Corp. has moved further away from banking and into the world of sweets with its third chocolatier acquisition. The Fort Lauderdale-based company, formerly the parent of BankAtlantic, bought Jer’s Chocolates, of Solana Beach, Calif., for an undisclosed sum. More at South Florida Business Journal.


Publix to start offering personalized coupons

Publix is launching a pilot program this month that will give customers personalized coupons based on their shopping history. So if you buy peanut butter frequently, there's a chance you might start getting special offers or discounts for it. More at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.


Plans submitted for Miami World Center’s first phase

After eight years of planning and delays, developers of the Miami World Center mega-development submitted detailed plans Monday for a massive shopping complex and three towers covering several city blocks for approval by planners. More at the Miami Herald.

Business Profile
Enzymedica is leader in its field

enzymedicaAs people age, their internal systems age as well. Foods that were never a problem in years gone by, for instance, can begin to cause problems. Venice-based Enzymedica is capitalizing on the aging of America with products that aid digestion.

» Full story from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune