Latest Business News Headlines from Florida Patch News Sites

In Florida, the business scene is buzzing with a mix of closures, openings, and accolades. Big Lots is set to close 11 stores in the state after a grim earnings report, while a new Sprouts grocery store in downtown Sarasota is gearing up for its grand opening. On a lighter note, the Lemur Conservation Foundation welcomed four endangered baby lemurs, and Saks Fifth Avenue is bringing its luxury personal shopping service to St. Pete.

In other news, Tampa’s Joy Bar is keeping the holiday spirit alive with a Christmas in July celebration, and the Marie Selby Botanical Garden in Sarasota has been recognized as one of the world’s greatest places by Time magazine. However, the Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg will be closing temporarily for an expansion project.

On the culinary front, Florida boasts three pizzerias among the nation’s best, and 289 restaurants in the state have been honored with Wine Spectator Awards. Additionally, Allegiant airline is adding seven new routes from Florida airports, and the first armored vehicle dealership in the U.S. has opened in the state.

With 31 Florida hospitals ranking among the best in the country according to U.S. News & World Report, and a new City Furniture showroom with a cafe and wine bar opening in Sarasota, the business landscape in Florida is as diverse as ever.