Florida records surge in pending home sales
Florida’s housing market in August continued trends from the past several months with one notable exception: New pending sales — essentially the number of homes for sale that went under contract — were up significantly year-over-year, according to Florida Realtors’ latest housing report. In particular, new pending sales of single-family homes were up by 9.9% compared to August of last year, their largest year-over-year increase since last November. More from WRE News and Florida Realtors.
Bealls implements AI into retail company's planning process
Bradenton-based retail giant Bealls, which has more than 660 stores in the United States, recently deployed an artificial intelligence platform companywide to scale decision-making around areas like merchandise planning and inventory optimization. Called Profitmind, the AI system was developed in 2024 to continuously analyze data, prioritize the highest-impact opportunities and recommend or execute actions linked to business goals, according to a statement. More from the Business Observer.
Jacksonville City Council OKs $400,000 transfer to negotiate with TV or movie producer
The Jacksonville City Council approved legislation to facilitate a possible incentive to a TV or film production identified as code-named Project T in legislation. Council’s 15-4 vote on Ordinance 2025-0720 allowed for a transfer of $400,000 to the Office of Economic Development to use in negotiations with the production company. It did not constitute approval of an incentive, which would be subject to another Council vote. More from the Jacksonville Daily Record.
‘Sawtooth’ Pinellas beach renourishment could leave some homes at risk
This month, renourishment started along some of Pinellas’ most severely eroded beaches on Sand Key. But the outcome promises to look a little different this go around. To do the work, the county needs easements to access landowners’ private property. But obtaining them has proven a difficult task. Nearly 100 property owners haven’t signed agreements to give the county access to their property for its $125.7 million project this year. More from the Tampa Bay Times.
Spirit in line for cash infusion as airline cuts deals to resolve aircraft leasing disputes
Spirit Airlines has reached a series of proposed deals with its principal aircraft leasing firm that would deliver a cash infusion to the troubled budget carrier, according to filings in U.S. Bankruptcy Court posted Tuesday. The Dania Beach-based airline filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection from creditors on Aug. 29, its second such filing in less than a year. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Business Profile
Riding in style: Gainesville family launches black car and concierge services company
A long history in service, counseling and entrepreneurship, combined with providing luxury transportation services, fueled the creation of Luxe Concierge Group. While rooted in North Florida, Luxe Concierge Group serves clients throughout Florida and across the U.S., including expanding into corporate, sports and entertainment markets.
» More from the Gainesville Sun.
Out of the Box
Bank adds Florida's 1st dog ATM amid customer demand
TD Bank will launch its first dog "automatic treat machine" in Florida at its most popular branch by deposits in Miami-Dade County. Located inside the branch's lobby, the new device dispenses free biscuits and mimics a standard self-service cash kiosk, complete with a digital screen. It shows “dog-centric content” and has a motion-sensitive mat that triggers a treat when dogs step up.
» Read more from the South Florida Business Journal.