September 2025
The Florida Panhandle is experiencing robust economic growth fueled by major industrial job-creating investments, housing development, and a thriving tourism sector.
ECP’s first airplane engine maintenance facility will bring 500 jobs to the Panhandle
What This Means For You: The Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) will soon host its first airplane engine maintenance facility, bringing 500 jobs and positioning the region as a key player in aviation services. The 120,000-square-foot engine test facility will be used to repair and test commercial aircraft engines, allowing maintenance to take place locally instead of shipping them elsewhere.
Point Blank Enterprises to Bring 300 Jobs to Wakulla County in $22M Expansion
What This Means For You: Point Blank Enterprises, a manufacturer of body armor and protective solutions for military and law enforcement agencies, will establish a new facility in Wakulla County, bringing 300 new jobs to the region as part of a multi-agency economic development effort. The company’s expansion includes the construction of a 118,000-square-foot manufacturing plant at Opportunity Park.
American Airlines launches daily flights from Destin-Fort Walton to Miami and Year-round service to Chicago O’Hare
What This Means For You: American Airlines has added daily flights to Miami and year-round service to Chicago O’Hare, boosting regional connectivity and supporting the Panhandle’s growing tourism and business travel market.
Pensacola named “City on the Rise” for 2025
What This Means For You: Pensacola was named one of the top 25 fastest-growing U.S. metropolitan areas by LinkedIn. The rankings are based on criteria such as job growth and new talent. Pensacola was ranked 25th on the list which includes metro-areas such as Austin, Kansas City, and Nashville. According to LinkedIn, Pensacola is building on momentum after a boom in the housing market following the pandemic.
Global Impact Products to Invest $14M, Add 150 Jobs in Bay County
What This Means For You: The Bay Economic Development Alliance, an agent of the Bay County Commission (Bay EDA), announced that Global Impact Products LLC (known as Project “CLEAR”), will be establishing a window and door manufacturing operation in Bay County, Florida. The company will create 150 new jobs and will invest $14M in this new operation.
Topgolf First to Open at the Pier Park City Center Development in Panama City Beach, Florida
What This Means For You: The first Pier Park City Center business to open, Topgolf features 74 outdoor climate-controlled hitting bays along with a full-service restaurant and bar and year-round family-friendly programming. Topgolf will serve as an anchor for the Pier Park City Center development, helping to attract new businesses, spark additional investment and enhance the area’s appeal as a dynamic hub for commercial opportunities.
