By Amy Calandrino, Beyond Commercial

This week, I’m sharing a mix of timely updates and observations that help illustrate what’s happening across our city and region—from jobs data to culinary milestones and seasonal foot traffic. While none of these stories are groundbreaking on their own, each adds a layer of insight into the momentum we’re seeing in the Orlando:

  • 📊 Florida’s January 2025 employment report shows continued regional growth
  • 🍽️ Orlando’s Michelin stars multiply, elevating our culinary reputation
  • 🌺 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival brings seasonal surge in foot traffic

Let’s break it all down through the lens of economic impact and opportunity.

📊 National/Statewide Outlook: Orlando Employment Trends Show Strength Amid Broader Uncertainty

According to the latest data released by FloridaCommerce, the Orlando metro area gained 27,400 private sector jobs year-over-year in January 2025—a 2.0% increase. Orlando also posted the fastest annual job growth rate among Florida’s major metros. Key sectors fueling the increase include:

  • Leisure & Hospitality (+11,100 jobs)
  • Trade, Transportation & Utilities (+6,500 jobs)
  • Professional & Business Services (+5,900 jobs)

With a current unemployment rate of 3.2%, Orlando remains below the state average and well ahead of the national trend.

🏢 What This Means for Commercial Real Estate

  • Office Space Demand Rebounds: Growth in business services and logistics is a positive sign for the office and industrial sectors. Companies are expanding again.
  • Retail Recovery Continues: More employed residents with disposable income equals more spending. That translates into increased tenant demand in lifestyle centers and shopping corridors.
  • Labor Pool Attractiveness: With strong job creation and a growing labor force, Orlando remains a compelling market for business relocation.

For investors and developers, job growth is the engine that drives leasing activity, property performance, and long-term asset value.

🍽️ Regional Spotlight: Michelin Stars Shine on Orlando’s Food Scene

Orlando’s culinary reputation is no longer just a local secret—it’s gaining global recognition. According to Tasty Chomps, the 2025 Michelin Guide honored multiple Orlando restaurants:

  • Sorekara (2 Stars) – Exquisite Japanese tasting menu showcasing seasonal micro-seasons.
  • Ômo by Jônt (1 Star) – A boundary-pushing blend of French and Japanese culinary traditions.
  • Bib Gourmand Honorees – Several local favorites offering great food at great value.

💼 CRE Implications

  • Luxury Market Enhancement: High-end dining options elevate the profile of their surrounding areas—expect nearby retail and residential properties to see a boost.
  • Hospitality & Tourism Revenue: Orlando’s draw is now broader than theme parks—culinary travelers are on the rise, and so is their spending.
  • New Leasing Demand: Restaurateurs and hospitality operators may seek space in food-forward, experiential developments.

In short, our culinary landscape is an economic driver, influencing not only where people dine but also where they live, invest, and build.

🌺 Hyperlocal Impact: EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Blooms in Spring 2025

Running from March 5 through June 2, 2025, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival at Walt Disney World continues to draw families, foodies, and floral enthusiasts alike.

Festival Highlights:

  • Dozens of Outdoor Kitchens offering globally inspired small plates and drinks
  • Topiary Displays celebrating Disney characters and springtime beauty
  • Garden Rocks Concert Series with nightly performances
  • Interactive exhibits & local vendors

🏢 Economic & CRE Takeaways

  • Tourism Spike = Revenue Surge: Hotels, restaurants, and retailers in and around Lake Buena Vista and I-Drive see seasonal lifts.
  • Short-Term Rental Demand: Vacation home and Airbnb owners benefit from extended festival duration.
  • Event-Driven Leasing: Retail landlords near high-traffic zones may look to lease pop-up space or activate with food trucks and local partnerships.

These spring events not only drive revenue but keep Orlando front-of-mind for global visitors considering long-term investments or relocations.

📈 Final Thoughts from Amy Calandrino

As we reflect on Orlando’s evolving economic landscape, it’s clear that growth continues to come from all directions—employment gains, cultural milestones, and seasonal foot traffic are all working together to fuel opportunity in our region. From the jobs data showing Orlando leading the state, to Michelin stars cementing our city as a culinary capital, to EPCOT’s ongoing festival drawing in national and international guests—these moments matter.

For business owners, investors, and developers, staying in sync with these trends is how we plan smart and go further. Whether you’re assessing a new development, repositioning an asset, or seeking the next place to grow, these indicators point toward continued momentum in Central Florida.

Until next week,

Amy Calandrino, CCIM, SIOR
Founder & CEO, Beyond Commercial