5A – Identifying Local Opportunities

Opportunity 1

Title: Florida seniors leading the state in medical marijuana use

Link: https://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/20190913/florida-seniors-leading-state-in-medical-marijuana-use

This story is describing a trend in Florida regarding medical marijuana. It explains how citizens 55 years old and up are the leaders of the medical marijuana movement. There is not necessarily a problem in this story, but there is plenty of opportunity. A lot of medical marijuana companies like to market young adults, people who stereotypically use the most medical marijuana. However, a smart business idea would be to create a medical marijuana company that markets and caters to the Baby Boomers.

Opportunity 2

Title: Cheesecake Factory to open in Gainesville

Link: https://www.wcjb.com/content/news/Cheesecake-Factory-to-open-in-Gainesville-560175041.html

This article describes the grand opening of a new Cheesecake Factory in Butler Town Center. It has hired 300 employees and it set to open on Tuesday, September 17th. Again, there is no problem in this story. The problem requires a bit of analysis. Cheesecake Factory, considering its aesthetic and nice environment, is a prime date location. As Butler Town Center introduces new stores opening up, there has been no type of entertainment for a date night, other than restaurants. A great business opportunity would be opening up a movie theater next to these restaurants, and employ some kind of deal connecting the two. Perhaps, if you go to Cheesecake Factory and bring your receipt into the theater, you can get 15% off the movie. Just a suggestion, but nonetheless, the opportunity is there.

Opportunity 3

Title: First Florida distribution facility for Pharmco to be built in Marion County

Link: https://www.wcjb.com/content/news/First-Florida-distribution-facility-for-Pharmco-to-be-built-in-Marion-County-512625181.html

This article details the opening of a brand new Pharmco distribution facility in Ocala. It is very large, a total of 265,000 sq. ft, and will benefit companies who specialize in herbal-based extracts. This is a tremendous opportunity for starting an herbal-supplement company in Gainesville. If this facility was not being opened, companies of the same nature would have to pay almost 5 times the amount to receive the exact same products, and at a later time. This new facility would cut supply costs and make delivery more convenient.

Opportunity 4

Title: Commissioners vote to ban plastic bags in Alachua County

Link: https://www.wcjb.com/content/news/Commissioners-vote-to-ban-plastic-bags-in-Alachua-County--512514912.html

This article outlines the city's plan to ban all plastic bags in an effort to preserve the environment. This change will go into effect on January 1st of next year, and will financially penalize companies who do not follow the law. This is a great business opportunity for paper and cloth bag sellers. With the law in place, many local businesses will scramble and try to find the cheapest alternative to plastic bags. This would be a perfect time to capitalize.

Opportunity 5

Title: Innovation Hub Expansion Nears Completion

Link: https://www.wcjb.com/content/news/Innovation-Hub-Expansion-Nears-Completion--441765813.html

This article describes the last finishing touches being put on the UF Innovation Hub. This building will be used for innovative UF students to plan businesses and hold meetings. This area is geared toward success in the business sector. As a UF student, this offers incredible opportunity, as office space is always a giant expense in a lot of start-ups. The reopening of the innovation center should springboard a lot of new local companies into existence.