1. UPDATED MAJOR LAND CLOSINGS: 26 here in Florida, including Naples and Bonita Springs
Last month, ubiquitous discount retailer Big Lots announced it would close up to 40 stores by the end of 2024 as its financials worsen in a tough consumer market. Now that number could be closer to 315.
According to Big Lots’ website, eleven stores in Florida were initially closed.
In a July 31 filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the large discount chain agreed to numerous additional store closures while updating its credit terms to lower the credit limit and raise the interest rate.
Now the website says that 26 of the chain’s 106 stores in Florida are being closed, with sales already falling by up to 20%.
According to Big Lots’ website, 26 stores in Florida will be closing, including the following in Southwest Florida: Naples: 2882 Tamiami Trail E., Bonita Springs: 25191 Chamber Of Commerce Drive and Fort Myers: 15271 McGregor Blvd. – CA Bridges, Cheryl McCloud and James Powel/USA TODAY Network-Florida
2. COVID-19 outbreak: SWFLA numbers currently declining
July was not a quiet period in Southwest Florida regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, but there may be some slowdown.
The number of cases often increases in summer, when people live in air-conditioned indoor spaces, take summer trips and are less vigilant. Another factor is that fewer people are getting vaccinated despite the recommendation to get vaccinated regularly.
According to the CDC’s Center for Forecasting and Outbreak Analytics, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention expects infection rates to increase or likely increase in 35 states nationwide, while remaining stable or uncertain in seven states.
Florida appears to be among the seven states where infection numbers are stable or uncertain. Neighboring Georgia and all other southern states are among the 35 states where infection numbers are expected to rise.
According to the Florida Department of Health, Florida’s statewide infection count for the week ending July 26 was 18,927 cases, down from 23,789 cases for the week of July 19.
In Collier, there were 211 cases during the week of July 26, down from 282 cases during the week of July 19. For almost all of July this year, Collier had 1,274 cases.
The state health department reports that Lee County had 749 cases during the week ending July 26. That’s down from 988 cases during the week of July 19. Compared to the previous month, Lee County had 392 cases during the week ending June 14. – Liz Freeman/USA TODAY Network-Florida
3. WHAT’S NEW: Coca-Cola and Oreo collaborate on new limited edition cookies and drinks
Two iconic global brands collaborate on two new, limited-edition food and beverage products inspired by each other.
Coca-Cola and Oreo have collaborated to launch new products that will be available starting September 9. These include:
- Oreo Coca-Cola Sandwich Cookie: The cookie has a distinctive red and black color block design with two unique base cakes, a classic chocolate cake with Coca-Cola syrup and a red and gold one with Coca-Cola motifs filled with a smooth white cream. The base cakes are paired with a Coca-Cola flavor and popsicles that provide a “fizz” sensation with every bite, the press release said.
- Coca-Cola Oreo Zero Sugar: Fans can enjoy the smooth blend of refreshing Coca-Cola flavor with aromatic Oreo cookie-inspired notes.
Additionally, customers will have access to the “Bestie Mode Digital Experience,” a unique digital experience with Spotify. Customers can scan Coca-Cola and Oreo products and follow the steps to sync up with their best friend, the press release said. —Gabe Hauari/USA TODAY Trending Reporter
Are you looking for a job? 3 To Do: WWE Super Show, Modern Bridal Expo, performance by the Ben Allen Band
Extended list of events in the region: SWFLA To-Do List: Ave Maria for the Back-to-School Party, more
