Rotarian Jim Scott introduced Monday’s program, which was Jake Austin from the Plant City Economic Development Corporation and Bobby Krueger with Brennan Investment Group.
Brennan Investment Group recently purchased the iconic Plant City property, “Paradise Fruits / Paradise Plastics,” which is located on the corner of Alexander Street and Martin Luther King Blvd. Paradise was a Plant City institution for six decades, and was owned and operated by fellow Rotarian Randy Gordon and his family.
Paradise Fruit was most known for its candied fruit that was commonly used in fruit cakes. As demand for that product declined over the years, the company diversified into other lines of business, including plastics design and molding. However, after several years of declining revenues, the company sold in 2019.
When a local business of this size closes, the Plant City EDC is available to support the transition, including assisting with the re-employment of those affected, and making other connections to ensure a smooth transition.
Bobby Krueger is a Plant City native, and was thrilled for the opportunity to be associated with the purchase and redevelopment of this property. Bobby appreciates the legacy of Paradise and the Gordon family, and also recognizes the prominent location of this property on an active Plant City intersection, and across the street from the “world renown” Johnsons BBQ and Fred’s Market.
The property includes 310,000 of warehouse, manufacturing, and office space that spans over several buildings on nearly 12 acres. In respect of the property’s legacy, the property and project has been named “Paradise Commerce Center.” Brennan intends to redevelop the property in phases, and will be making additional investments to improve its condition and future use.
In addition to the prime location, which is 1.5 miles from I-4 and in the heart of Plant City, the property includes a consumptive water use permit that allows a user to draw 228,000 gallons of water per day. (Over 6 million per month.) This will likely attract a business that will create new, quality manufacturing jobs.
Brennan Investments intends to re-purpose 5 prime acres on the corner of Martin Luther King and Alexander. The property is currently industrial, but Brennan believes this corner has tremendous retail/office/recreation potential, and is working with the city on re-zoning this corner.
Our thanks to Brennan Investment Group for their care and vision of this important asset of Plant City. While it is never easy losing an important, local, company of over 60 years, it is comforting to know that the legacy is under the care of a solid company with local ties.
