Global Businesses Highlighted, as British Company Locates in Lakewood Ranch

The Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp. is seeking to highlight the contributions of global businesses located in Manatee, as a British manufacturer opens a complex in Lakewood Ranch.

The Manatee County Commission is scheduled on March 26 to consider a proclamation establishing April 3 as Global Industry Day.

The day coincides with the grand opening celebration of IRISS, a manufacturer that has relocated its headquarters to Lakewood Ranch from the United Kingdom.

The infrared window maker has developed a complex at the Lakewood Ranch Commerce Center.

Global Industry Day will highlight the number of local businesses with parent companies overseas or that sell goods and services outside the United States.

“The EDC has identified an emerging base of companies with strong global business relationships that provide high-wage jobs and bring new wealth into the community,” said Sharon Hillstrom, CEO of the economic development corporation.

The economic impact from exports is growing in the Manatee-Sarasota region. Between 2007 and 2011, exports from the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton Metropolitan Statistical Area grew 27.5 percent.

Florida ranks as the fourth largest export state in the country, and exporting businesses were responsible for employing over 700,000 Floridians, according to 2011 statistics.

About the Bradenton Area EDC

The Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp. (EDC) is the lead economic development organization for the Bradenton area’s nine communities located on the south side of Tampa Bay. For more information:  www.ThinkBradentonArea.com.