Staff ReportsGov. Rick Scott continued a string of jobs announcements, reporting Wednesday that Feld Entertainment, which moved its international headquarters from Vienna, Va., to Ellenton in 2013, will continue to expand its workforce in Florida by relocating the corporation’s Motor Sports division to Manatee County.
The live-show production company, will shift about 200 jobs and a $2.975 million capital investment to the southern Tampa Bay area.
Casey Rodgers, Feld vice president of finance and strategic planning, said Florida’s active economic development efforts gave the state competitive advantages:
“[T]eamwork and support from the state of Florida, Manatee County and the Bradenton Area EDC encouraged us to take a harder look at locating the Motor Sports Division with other productions in Ellenton. The business-friendly climate and talented workforce in the Bradenton area make the location attractive for consolidating more of our operations here.”
Enterprise Florida CEO Bill Johnson agreed:
“Florida offers world-class business amenities and an expansive infrastructure, not to mention a diverse and highly skilled workforce of more than 9.5 million. The state makes a very compelling case for industry leaders like Feld Entertainment to grow here and we’re thrilled to announce their most recent expansion.”
The addition of 200 new positions near the city of Palmetto will supplement Feld’s already substantial Florida workforce, which numbers about 400.
Jesse Panuccio, head of the Department of Economic Opportunity, added the move by Feld is in keeping with a trend.
“Florida has become a magnet for business relocations because of our low-tax, pro-growth policies. Feld Entertainment’s continued growth is great news for families in Manatee County,” Panuccio said.
