The Shriteh Family, one of Punta Gorda's largest private employers, and GCM Contracting Solutions, celebrated the groundbreaking of Duffie North, a 10-acre, two-building industrial development located within Punta Gorda Airport Commerce Center.
The project will deliver more than 100,000 sq. ft. of modern warehouse and flex space and is expected to generate more than 200 new jobs upon full occupancy.
Friday's event brought together representatives from the Shriteh Family, GCM Contracting Solutions, Charlotte County, regional businesses and community partners. Guests gathered for networking, remarks from project partners and officials and a ceremonial groundbreaking.
The program also featured a charitable presentation from the Shriteh Foundation, which awarded $30,000 to Awaken Outreach Center and Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity — supporting local food assistance, family services and affordable housing programs.
"For more than 25 years, this community has been our home," said Taher Shriteh. "We've built our lives and businesses here, and we want to give back in ways that strengthen Charlotte County for the future. Duffie North reflects that commitment by creating jobs, adding industrial capacity and helping support the growth we're seeing across this region."
Punta Gorda's Airport Commerce Center has rapidly evolved into a major hub for business activity, with companies seeking efficient, high-clearance space to support operations. Duffie North builds on this progress by introducing versatile buildings designed for manufacturing, logistics, distribution and other expanding sectors.
"Duffie North represents our commitment to providing modern, flexible warehouse space that meets the evolving needs of businesses in Southwest Florida," said Robert Brown, founder and CEO of GCM Contracting Solutions. "With Punta Gorda's growing infrastructure and proximity to the airport, companies can operate efficiently, reduce costs and tap into a skilled local workforce. We're proud to support the region's ongoing economic growth."
According to Charlotte County Economic Development, Punta Gorda continues to experience sustainable, well-managed growth driven by long-term investments and proactive planning in key commerce zones, including the rapidly expanding Airport Commerce Center.
Charlotte County Commission Chairman Joseph Tiseo, who spoke at the event, emphasized how Duffie North supports countywide economic priorities.
"Duffie North aligns perfectly with our vision for balanced growth in Charlotte County," he said. "Projects like this ensure we have the facilities, infrastructure and opportunities needed to support the businesses and families who call this community home."
This momentum is reflected in the county's business recruitment efforts as well.
"This project comes at a pivotal time for Charlotte County," said Kay Tracy, director of the Charlotte County Economic Development Office. "Duffie North not only gives employers the space they need to grow as our workforce expands, it also brings high-wage job opportunities for our residents and strengthens our long-term tax base. That expanded revenue directly supports our schools, public safety, emergency services and quality-of-life investments that benefit every corner of our community. Projects like this ensure Charlotte County remains competitive, resilient and well-positioned for the future."
The project features two buildings, each approximately 54,000 sq. ft., with a combined total of approximnately 108,000 sq. ft. Both are grey shell facilities, allowing future tenants to customize their spaces. A centralized truck court with ample circulation supports modern logistics and distribution operations, making Duffie North a scalable solution for businesses seeking high-clearance industrial space in a rapidly growing commercial corridor.
For more information, visit gcmcontracting.com.
