Florida Chamber Honors Florida-Based Bealls, Inc. Retailer for 100 Years

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Edie Ousley, 850-521-1231 or 850-251-6261
eousley@flchamber.com

Centennial Anniversary of
Family-Owned, Bradenton Business

TALLAHASSEE, FL. (April 14, 2015) – The Florida Chamber of Commerce today joined Florida Governor Scott and members of the Florida Cabinet in recognizing Florida-based retailer Bealls, Inc. on its 100-year anniversary. The company was honored with a proclamation for their centennial anniversary during today’s Cabinet meeting.

“The department store chain, which started in Bradenton and now has more than 530 stores throughout the state, is the very embodiment of what free enterprise is all about – the ability to grow and expand private-sector business and create more jobs for Floridians,” said Mark Wilson, President and CEO of the Florida Chamber.

Bealls’ unique brand truly represents the Florida lifestyle, yet its traditions are still deeply rooted in the Beall family that founded the company. Their motto “always do what is right” resonates throughout their company culture and their focus on Florida’s future.

“This is a great honor for Bealls,” Bob Beall said when receiving the Cabinet Proclamation. “We’re hoping to go for another 100 years.”

The company has been a member of the Florida Chamber of Commerce since 1970 with Robert Beall, II (Bob) serving as Chairman of the Board in 2005. Bob’s leadership and investment in Florida’s economy are a true testament to the principles established by his grandfather and founder of Bealls, Robert M. Beall, and his father, E.R. Beall.

The Bealls legacy continues still today with the dedication and philanthropy exemplified by current Florida Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board, Steve Knopik.

“The Florida Chamber is proud to recognize Bealls as a vital part of Florida’s past and look forward to working together to secure Florida’s future,” Wilson added.

###

The Florida Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business and the state’s largest federation of employers, chambers of commerce and associations, aggressively representing small and large businesses from every industry and every region. The Florida Chamber works within all branches of government to affect those changes set forth in the annual Florida Business Agenda, and which are seen as critical to secure Florida’s future. The Florida Chamber works closely with its Political Operations and the Florida Chamber Foundation. Visit www.FloridaChamber.com for more information.