Goodwill gains East County retail space

EAST COUNTY — As Manasota Goodwill President Bob Rosinsky stands in front of the former Sweetbay location on State Road 70 and looks toward the vacant space, he sees a dream fulfilled.

Goodwill is just months away from realizing a 15-year vision to open a retail center in the Lakewood Ranch community. The nonprofit expects to open in the more than 40,000-square-foot space in Ranch Lake Plaza in March.

“We’re thrilled to get a retail presence in Lakewood Ranch,” Rosinsky said. “The people who live and work in Lakewood Ranch have been coming to our donation centers in Lakewood Ranch since we opened them and asking when we are going to open a retail center.”

The new facility, which is undergoing interior demolition and renovations, will be a full retail center with a community room and job connection area. It also will have a special training area for individuals with special needs.

“This is going to open up retail to a whole new customer base,” Roskinsky said, noting Goodwill patrons span a variety of socioeconomic levels. “We’re excited. It’s close enough to the Lakewood Ranch business area. That gives us a doorway into a compelling retail area.”

Goodwill Manasota currently operates about 35 locations, including donation and retails centers, spanning from Sarasota to Arcadia.

For more information, pick up a copy of this week's East County Observer.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].