Okaloosa County, Fla. (Oct 29, 2021) – Purple Square Management, a Tampa-based management company that operates over 205 franchise locations in nine states – including 95 Dunkin’ / Baskin Robbins stores throughout Florida and Alabama – has selected Okaloosa County for a new, state-of-the-art commercial bakery and distribution facility. The 24,500 SF facility will be developed on a four acre parcel located within the Okaloosa Industrial Air Park – land that was previously certified as “shovel ready” through Gulf Power’s Florida First Sites program. The company’s real estate holding company closed on the purchase of the property with the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners on October 28, 2021.
The total cost of constructing and equipping the new facility is projected to be approximately $4.5 million, and 60 new jobs are expected to be created as the company scales up to full production. In recognition of the economic benefits associated with the project, the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners previously approved an Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption award for the company and discounted the purchase price for the Adora Teal Way parcel.
“We applaud the decision by Purple Square Management and Dunkin’ brands to construct their new commercial bakery and distribution operation in the Okaloosa County Industrial Air Park and welcome the new jobs they will provide. Okaloosa County’s dynamic combination of favorable operating costs, efficient access to I-10 and top notch training partnerships will be instrumental in their continued success,” stated Paul Mixon, Okaloosa County Commissioner, District 1.
“With 30 stores and two currently under construction in the Florida panhandle, we know the area quite well. The decision to build our manufacturing facility in Okaloosa County represents a new chapter for us, and we look forward to employing local people who share our commitment to delivering high quality products in the safest and most cost efficient manner possible,” stated Vik Patel, President & CEO, Purple Square Management.
“This is a great win for our area and proof positive that Okaloosa County’s ongoing commitment to economic diversification is paying off. Purple Square Management and Dunkin’ brands join a growing list of food and beverage manufacturers – including GS Gelato, Props Craft Brewery, Timber Creek Distillery and Big Creek Farms among others – that call Okaloosa County home,” stated Leslie Sheekley, FY 2022 Chairman, One Okaloosa EDC.
Purple Square Management has initiated the 12 week facility design process and anticipates that facility construction will begin in Spring 2022. Those interested in employment opportunities at the new facility should monitor the Careers section of the Purple Square Management website, which may be found at www.purplesquaremgmt.com/careers/.
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