Business owners from Tampa and beyond gathered on Thursday, December 12, to share insights and mangle at one of What Now Media Group’s Accelerate events.
The free event, held at American Social at 601 S Harbour Island Boulevard, Site #107, included more than 20 representatives from restaurants featured on What Now Tampa and at least a dozen industry-leading experts from What Now Media Group’s network of Preferred Partners. Attendees mingled while enjoying bites and beverages before Mariah Medley, the Director of Events of What Now Media Group, introduced herself to the group.
American Social is a Vibrant gastropub at The Pointe Marina on Harbour Island. It offers updated American comfort food and is a perfect spot for friends to come together and create fantastic memories. Customers can expect a high-energy atmosphere, an award-winning menu, live entertainment, plenty of local beer, and a unique cocktail list.
The menu at American Social reimagines Modern American classics by adding a twist, offering boundary-pushing flavors and seasonal features. Whether you’re there to share a crowd-pleasing appetizer or to have a mouth-watering burger by yourself, there is something for everyone at American Social. The combination of delicious drink options makes AmSo the perfect spot for meeting up, hosting a party, or catching a game. American Social also has locations in Boca Raton, Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale, and Miami.
The restaurant recently hosted local entrepreneurs and business representatives from Tampa. During the event, attendees shared their business experiences, provided updates on their progress, and reflected on the lessons learned from opening brick-and-mortar establishments in the area. Key takeaways from the discussion included the importance of having a passion for success, the necessity of pivoting effectively—especially in response to emergencies—and the significance of building connections within the community.
Another topic discussed was sales tax automation. We know that taxes are a monthly obligation that consumes your valuable time and money, and mistakes can be costly. Our partners at DAVO by Avalara offer a powerful tool that automates every step of the sales tax process—from collecting to filing to paying. It integrates seamlessly with your POS system, so there’s nothing you need to do once you’re set up. What Now Media Group presented on behalf of Chris Chan and Cris Vickery of DAVO at this Accelerate event.
DAVO simplifies sales tax management with a one-time setup process. Once you complete this simple setup, DAVO handles everything for you. They collect and set aside sales tax daily, using data from your POS system, so you don’t have to worry about having enough cash at the end of the month. Additionally, DAVO automatically files your state sales tax on time, guaranteed. Did you know that some states even offer a discount for on-time filing? If you’re interested in learning how to eliminate the stress of sales tax, visit our partners at DAVO or contact them directly for more information.
This is the type of essential service that restaurant owners can learn about at Accelerate events, where they can connect with service providers and experts who can solve their problems or questions.
Throughout the event, restaurant owners shared their experiences regarding their business operations. Several franchise owners were in attendance, hoping to learn how they could better grow their franchised locations. Victor Hamisevicz and Dawn Pierce, the local franchise owners of Cinnaholic, provided updates on their newest location, which What Now Tampa reported on last month. The duo provided updates regarding the new location coming to St. Petersburg in the former home of Nutrishop at 5250 Fourth St. N.
Another pair of eager franchise owners in attendance was Bill Hoopes and Alesha Hoopes of Capital Tacos. The two opened the chain’s first-ever franchise location in Trinity. Previously, they hoped to open two additional locations before the end of the year. There is only one Capital Tacos near Tampa at Land O Lakes.
“We’re a small, veteran-owned business,” Hoopes tells What Now Tampa, “and we’re excited to serve the community.”
Franchise owners weren’t the only entrepreneurs at this event. Several business owners helped drive the conversation about helping others grow. Christopher Walters and Liliam Alvitos, the co-owners of Tango Brew, shared insights into their journey and where they hope to go next.
Viyareth Vongprachanh and Brendan Manivong of Doodle Noodle Bar were also in attendance. The two started the year preparing to open a second location at 1202 E Fowler Ave., near USF. After successfully expanding the business for the first time, the co-owners are attending What Now’s Accelerate event, hoping to gain more insights on growing.
Restaurant owners weren’t the only ones sharing their knowledge with everyone. The free event featured a handful of industry-leading experts from What Now Media Group’s network of Preferred Partners. Thomas Duke represented Liquid Environmental Solutions Corporation. This company provides total used cooking oil and liquid waste solutions for restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, and other food service operations.
Another valuable preferred partner in attendance was Tiffany LeTendre with ADT, who told the group about the importance of having a reliable alarm system for their businesses and how it would affect them not having it.
What Now Media Group shares restaurant opening news in 31 cities across the U.S., breaking news and providing timely insight into yet-to-open brick-and-mortar businesses. The platform shares news of thousands of openings across all 31 cities annually.
The industry-leading experts in What Now Media Group’s network of Preferred Partners help new businesses open and existing businesses grow.
Stay tuned for future Accelerate events from What Now Media Group in 2024. For more details, see the Accelerate page here.
