“Wings of History: Zephyrhills Museum Showcases Iconic Military Aircraft”
News Brief – Compiled by Mark Shellabarger | April 30, 2025
Tampa Bay & Florida’s West Coast Business Highlights
Curated for LQ Commercial & Extended Reach Florida
In this week’s roundup, Mark Shellabarger brings together key developments and headlines shaping the economic and commercial landscape of Tampa Bay and Florida’s West Coast. From major retail investments to transformative real estate activity, each story offers insight into the region’s accelerating growth and shifting market dynamics. These updates are designed to keep business owners, investors, and local leaders informed about the movements shaping the future of commerce in our communities.
Photo of the Week: Aviation History on Display in Zephyrhills
At the Zephyrhills Museum of Military History, a WWII-era C-53D “Skytrooper” transport aircraft stands prominently, with a 1959 Grumman OV-1B Mohawk visible in the background. This museum, situated on the grounds of the former Zephyrhills Army Airfield, offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich military aviation heritage.
📷 Photo by Mark Shellabarger
🛍️ Florida Retail & Commercial Real Estate Highlights
Aldi Acquires Cape Coral Parcel for $1.1 Million
Discount grocer Aldi has purchased a 2.86-acre vacant parcel at 3510 Del Prado Blvd. N. in Cape Coral for $1.1 million. The acquisition, represented by LQ Commercial, hints at Aldi’s continued expansion in Southwest Florida. While specific plans for the site haven’t been disclosed, the location is poised to serve the growing community in northeast Cape Coral.
📅 Reported by Business Observer, April 27, 2025
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H Mart Plans First Tampa Location
Popular Korean-American grocery chain H Mart has filed permits to establish a new store at 3908 W. Hillsborough Ave. in Tampa. This would mark H Mart’s second location in Florida, following an upcoming store in Orlando. Known for its extensive selection of Asian groceries and in-store food halls, H Mart’s expansion reflects the growing demand for diverse culinary offerings in the region.
📅 Reported by Tampa Bay Times, April 28, 2025
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Washington Prime Group to Sell 10 Florida Malls
Washington Prime Group is divesting its portfolio of 10 malls and shopping centers across Florida, including notable properties like Edison Mall in Fort Myers, Paddock Mall in Ocala, and WestShore Plaza in Tampa. This move is part of the company’s broader strategy to streamline operations and address financial challenges.
📅 Reported by Business Observer, April 24, 2025
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Ulta Beauty to Open New Store in Pasco County
Ulta Beauty is set to open a new location at Tampa Premium Outlets in Pasco County later this year. This will be the beauty retailer’s third store in the county and its 30th along Florida’s Gulf Coast, offering a wide range of cosmetics, skincare, and salon services to the local community.
📅 Reported by Business Observer, April 23, 2025
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