7 Brew Coffee: The Story of Why Charlotte County Florida Commercial Real Estate is Driving Exciting Business Growth


September 29th, 2025

Charlotte County Florida commercial real estate

Credit Original Story:  96K Rock

Credit Original Story:  Gulf Shore Business (Local reporting by Nancy Semon)

 

Charlotte County Florida commercial real estate fueling business growth

Charlotte County is no stranger to growth, but what makes it unique is how that growth feels both strategic and community-focused. Businesses that expand here find a rare combination: affordable commercial real estate, a supportive government, and a population eager to embrace new services. That’s a big reason why national brands are planting roots in the county, and why Charlotte County Florida commercial real estate has become a hot topic for site selectors.

The newest proof? 7 Brew Coffee, a rapidly expanding drive-thru coffee chain, chose Port Charlotte for its latest Florida location. The buzz around this opening is about more than just coffee. It’s about jobs, innovation, and how Charlotte County’s pro-business climate turns opportunity into reality.

7 Brew Coffee chooses Port Charlotte for expansion

On September 23, 2025, 7 Brew Coffee officially opened its first Port Charlotte stand at 4275 S. Tamiami Trail, right in front of the Town & Country Shopping Center.

Why the location matters

This is one of Charlotte County’s busiest commercial corridors, anchored by Publix and surrounded by high-traffic retail. Choosing such a visible location shows confidence in both the local market and the strength of Charlotte County Florida commercial real estate. U.S. 41 averages traffic counts in the 20,000–30,000+ vehicle range in many Charlotte County segments, making it one of the county’s busiest commercial corridors. Anchored by a Publix and surrounded by retail, the 7 Brew location benefits from this high visibility and steady traffic.

Community celebration with the Chamber

The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce joined 7 Brew Coffee staff and supporters for the ribbon cutting. Their presence sent a strong message: Charlotte County’s business institutions actively welcome and support new companies. That kind of partnership is one of the biggest reasons national brands invest here.

Community response and giving back

According to local reports, the opening drew large crowds, free drinks, and excitement about the menu’s 20,000 possible drink combinations. More importantly, 7 Brew presented a $1,500 donation to the Animal Welfare League, showing its commitment to giving back. The brand’s philosophy is clear: connect with customers face-to-face and support the community you serve.

Job creation and workforce impact in Charlotte County

The opening didn’t just bring caffeine to Port Charlotte — it brought jobs.

70+ new jobs, exceeding projections

The franchise expected to hire about 50 local employees, but demand and growth led to more than 70 hires, about 20 more than planned. That surge reflects both community support and Charlotte County’s workforce readiness.

Building careers, not just jobs

The Port Charlotte stand is led by General Manager Tyler Lyons, an Englewood resident with restaurant experience. Hiring and Training Director Ella Kirkpatrick, who started as a barista in the Panhandle, is training the new team. She introduced seven employees who will become future trainers: Paige Jones, Ariana Perez, Landree Hodgson, Xavier Amaro, Ariena Sanchez, Sam See, and Addysen Kaltz.

These stories highlight how Charlotte County’s workforce pipeline is not only filling jobs but creating career pathways. Entry-level positions are growing into leadership opportunities, supported by training and mentorship.

Business-friendly climate attracts national brands

Charlotte County is proving that it’s not just about space; it’s about support.

Low taxes and fast-track permitting

Florida already boasts one of the most favorable tax climates in the nation. Charlotte County builds on that advantage by offering streamlined permitting and proactive support. Businesses spend less time in red tape and more time serving customers.

Institutional support matters

The presence of the Chamber of Commerce at the 7 Brew ribbon cutting reflects how local institutions roll out the red carpet. That kind of partnership helps businesses integrate quickly into the community.

Community-first philosophy

7 Brew’s model — giving away drinks before opening, making a donation to local nonprofits, and using direct customer interactions instead of speaker boxes — fits perfectly in Charlotte County, where community connections drive loyalty.

Strategic location for site selection

Companies don’t just pick Charlotte County by chance. Its geography makes it a logistics dream.

I-75 corridor advantage

The county sits right along I-75, connecting Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and beyond. That puts millions of consumers within a few hours’ reach and allows businesses to manage both local and regional distribution.

Ports and airports nearby

With access to Port Manatee, Port Tampa Bay, Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), and Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), Charlotte County provides unmatched flexibility for supply chains. For a growing brand like 7 Brew, that means reliable access to products, materials, and customers.

Commercial real estate opportunities in Port Charlotte

The location of 7 Brew demonstrates how Charlotte County Florida commercial real estate is adapting to modern business needs.

Town & Country Shopping Center revitalization

By locating in front of the Publix-anchored Town & Country Shopping Center, 7 Brew helps bring renewed interest and foot traffic to an established plaza. Recent investment activity — such as the 2020 sale of the plaza for $7.1 million — demonstrates that investors see potential in these kinds of centers. Business Observer

Retail and mixed-use development trends

Port Charlotte is beginning to experience momentum in commercial development. Along U.S. 41 and nearby corridors, county plans and proposals envision new mixed-use projects that integrate retail, dining, and residential components. By doing so, these developments aim to transform parts of the corridor into vibrant hubs that serve both locals and visitors.  Here are a few upcoming projects:

  • Harborview (653-acre mixed-use development)

    • Charlotte County commissioners approved a May 2025 resolution for the Harborview project, which will include nearly 4,000 residential units, 655,000 sq ft of commercial space, 350 hotel rooms, and office/medical space. Business Observer

    • Buc-ee’s is planned as part of this development in the “West Village” district, pulling in large retail, travel center, and residential elements. Business Observer

  • Harbor Village (1600 S. McCall Rd., Port Charlotte)

    • In the county’s “Major Projects” lists, Harbor Village is described as a mixed-use development featuring 1,225 single-family units, 125 attached units, 650 multi-family units, plus 250,000 sq ft of commercial, 150,000 sq ft of other commercial uses, 200,000 sq ft of office, 150,000 sq ft of mini-warehouse, a 200-room hotel, and marina use. Charlotte County, FL

  • Port Charlotte Town Center redevelopment

    • The existing indoor mall is being reimagined as an open-air mixed-use destination, blending retail, entertainment, dining, and residential uses along with pedestrian promenades and public spaces. RSP Architects

  • Murdock Village zoning proposal

Charlotte County’s supportive infrastructure for business

Behind every successful expansion is infrastructure that works. Charlotte County continues to invest in systems that make growth possible.

  • Utilities: Reliable electricity, telecom, and water.
  • Transportation: Upgraded roads and bridges that keep people and goods moving.
  • Industrial space: Parks and logistics hubs near PGD to support manufacturing and distribution.

These investments keep Charlotte County competitive for businesses large and small.

Workforce training and education pipeline

Charlotte County pairs real estate with talent.

  • Charlotte Technical College (CTC): Produces skilled graduates in healthcare, trades, and manufacturing.
  • Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) and Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW): Provides higher education that keeps young professionals rooted locally.
  • Employer partnerships: Schools and the EDO work with businesses to align training programs with employer needs.

That’s why 7 Brew could staff up so quickly. The talent was already here.

Why companies like 7 Brew thrive here

The success of 7 Brew’s launch isn’t a coincidence. It’s the result of Charlotte County’s pro-growth environment.

  • Fast permitting means shorter timelines to open.
  • Chamber and community support ensure companies feel welcome.
  • Workforce readiness helps businesses scale faster than expected.

The chain’s expansion model — customer-first service, thousands of drink options, and strong community ties — aligns perfectly with Charlotte County’s culture.

Other recent success stories in Charlotte County

7 Brew joins a growing list of businesses finding success here:

  • Manufacturing: Companies are choosing Charlotte County’s industrial parks for advanced production.
  • Logistics: Warehousing and trucking firms benefit from the county’s central location.
  • Hospitality: Hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues are expanding to serve a growing population and visitor base.

Future outlook for Charlotte County commercial real estate

The horizon looks bright. Demand for Charlotte County Florida commercial real estate will keep climbing as population growth accelerates and infrastructure expands.

Future opportunities include:

  • Redevelopment of retail corridors along U.S. 41.
  • Expansion of industrial parks near Punta Gorda Airport.
  • Growth of mixed-use developments that combine housing, retail, and entertainment.

Every ribbon cutting, like the one for 7 Brew, adds to Charlotte County’s reputation as one of Florida’s most business-friendly counties.

FAQs

How many jobs did 7 Brew Coffee create in Port Charlotte?
The shop created over 70 jobs, about 20 more than originally projected.

What makes 7 Brew different from other coffee shops?
The brand offers 20,000 drink combinations and takes orders face-to-face with iPads instead of speaker boxes.

How did 7 Brew give back to the community during the opening?
The company donated $1,500 to the Animal Welfare League and handed out free drinks at schools, businesses, and hospitals.

Who manages the Port Charlotte 7 Brew?
General Manager Tyler Lyons from Englewood and Training Director Ella Kirkpatrick lead the team, with several employees training as future leaders.

Why is Charlotte County attractive for business expansions?
It offers affordable real estate, a favorable tax climate, workforce pipelines supported by local colleges and technical schools, and strategic access to highways, ports, and airports. County permitting and EDO support also help businesses open efficiently.

What’s next for 7 Brew in Southwest Florida?
Another location is already planned for North Port, showing regional growth momentum.

Conclusion

The story of 7 Brew Coffee’s arrival in Port Charlotte is bigger than a coffee shop opening. It’s proof that Charlotte County Florida commercial real estate offers the right mix of affordability, accessibility, and community support to make national brands thrive.

With more jobs, more investment, and more development on the horizon, Charlotte County is showing why it’s not just business-friendly — it’s business-ready. For companies looking to expand in Florida, there may be no better place to land.

Sources:

  • “7 Brew opens Port Charlotte stand with 20K drink options” — Gulfshore Business (Nancy Semon) (Gulfshore Business)
  • “2024 Roadway Level of Service Data Sheet” — Charlotte County, showing U.S. 41 AADT ~ 27,444 near Lee County line (Charlotte County, FL)
  • “7 Brew Opens Port Charlotte Shop, Creates 70 Jobs and Helps Local Animals”  – 96 K Rock