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504 Helps Mr. Bread Rise to Success

Apr 2009

The waterfront district in downtown Stuart is a historic part of this Southeast Florida city.

Recently, the area was revitalized where historic shops and buildings now coexist with modern developments neatly within a framework of award winning design and convenience. One of the cornerstones of this small business oasis is Mr. Bread, an artisan bakery and gourmet café that appeals to both businesses and individuals alike.

Joseph Frank Importico, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, acquired Mr. Bread in September 2003. The bakery has several tables and serves breads, pastries, cakes sandwiches, quiches and cheeses. A good portion of his sales are to large wholesale accounts, however Importico strives to please all of his customers, especially those that walk in from taking a stroll through downtown.

Importico recently used an FFCFC 504 to purchase the 1,142 sq. ft building that he previously leased. “These type investments in a revitalized downtown help stabilize the community and provide small business owners the opportunity to enhance and expand their services while maintaining costs low and reasonable,” said Deborah Petrell, Senior Vice President for Florida First Capital. “By preserving cash for capital improvements, the 504 program allows businesses to invest in one of the most important assets -- location, location, location,” she added.

As urban centers are revitalized throughout the state, one thing business owners can be sure about is the availability of the FFCFC 504 program to assist with their expansions and provide financing that is equally strong and affordable.

Visit Mr. Bread at www.misterbread.com.

For more information on Florida First Capital and its 504 loan program, visit www.ffcfc.com, email us at insider@ffcfc.com or call 888.320.5504.