By air and by sea, Lake County recognizes local businesses during Manufacturing Month

TAVARES – From the makers of seaplanes to fishing boat builders, Lake County has a vast array of businesses creating one-of-a-kind products widely used right here at home as well as exported globally.

“Lake County is truly diverse in the variety of manufacturers that have chosen to do business here,” said Adam Sumner, Lake County Economic Development & Tourism Department manager. “These businesses create a strong economic base not only for the county, for also as a contributor to the state’s financial health.”

There are nearly 18,000 manufacturers in Florida, employing 311,300 workers. The state’s manufacturing industries are diverse and include industries such as plastics, food processing and printing, as well as breakthrough technologies in electronics, medical devices and aviation/aerospace.

In a three-part series during the month of October, Lake County is recognizing some its local manufacturers:

• Progressive Aerodyne, located in Tavares, manufactures FAA Certified Searey Elite Amphibious Light–Sport Airplanes and Searey Kit amphibious aircraft.  Progressive Aerodyne received full FAA Certification of the Searey Light-Sport Aircraft in the spring of 2014. www.searey.com 

• Classic Fishing Products, located in Clermont, has been a leader is soft plastic fishing lure industry for decades. The Original Culprit Worm changed the bass fishing industry with its “kicking” tail. Culprit has recently released three new lures, all manufactured at the Clermont location. The new Incredi-Punch is designed to pull big bass out of matted weeds. The smaller profile of the Incredi-Slim allows for easy hook-sets and the new RipTide Baitfish provides the perfect imitation to catch a wide range of fish. www.culprit.com 

• Maritec Industries, based in Groveland, manufactures fishing boats for American Marine Sports, BlackWood Custom Offshore Boats and American Bass Boats. Each line has a number of models and sizes ranging from 17’ to 27’.  Maritec has built boats for the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and various marine patrols throughout Florida.

For more information on these businesses or to request a tour, contact Lake County’s Economic Development and Tourism Department at 352-742-3918 or visit www.BusinessInLakeFL.com.