The Glades Region of Palm Beach County is a strategic location for businesses, offering skilled labor, strong local supply chains, and access to growing markets. To showcase the region’s economic power, the Business Development Board (BDB) recently hosted a bus tour visiting three leading companies—Florida Crystals, TKM Bengard Farms, and CLN of South Florida. The tour highlighted how these companies continue to invest, innovate, and grow locally, contributing to the region’s long-term business retention and economic strength. Led by BDB Board members Keith Wedgworth and Donia Roberts, overviews of the region were shared to 20 top BDB members.
Florida Crystals Corporation Showcases Innovation and Scale in Agriculture
Florida Crystals Corporation, a sixth-generation empire in Belle Glade, operates over 190,000 acres in South Florida, producing sugarcane, rice, and vegetables using state-of-the-art agricultural and processing technology. With 2,000 employees, the company delivers sugar, specialty sweeteners, rice products, and renewable energy from sugarcane byproducts. Florida Crystals combines large-scale cultivation with sustainable, innovative practices to meet growing market demands.
TKM Bengard Farms Advances High-Tech Lettuce Production in Belle Glade
TKM Bengard Farms, a fourth-generation agricultural leader in Belle Glade, farms thousands of acres of fertile muck soil and runs 15 daily harvest crews. Producing over 100 million pounds of iceberg lettuce each season across 15+ varieties, TKM supplies major grocery chains and foodservice customers along the East Coast. The company leverages advanced tracking technology and rigorous food safety standards to deliver fresh, high-quality produce efficiently.
CLN of South Florida Expands Precision Manufacturing in the Glades
CLN of South Florida, based in Belle Glade, is a family-owned industrial machinery manufacturer specializing in high-precision CNC machines for sign-making, metal fabrication, and other industries. Combining cutting-edge technology and expert technicians, CLN delivers innovative solutions while training the next generation of skilled workers. Founded in 1997 and under new ownership in 2023, the company has strong roots in Belle Glade with plans to rapidly scale.
BDB Business Retention Program Supports Growth in Palm Beach County
Through its Business Retention Program, the BDB conducts 200 on-site visits each year to ensure businesses have the support they need to thrive. This proactive approach helps retain investment, preserve jobs, and reinforce the long-term vitality of Palm Beach County’s business community. Companies like Florida Crystals, TKM Bengard Farms, and CLN of South Florida exemplify the opportunities available to businesses that choose to stay and grow in Palm Beach County.
Learn more about the Business Development Board‘s work in recruiting, retaining and expanding business in the Palm Beaches.
Get involved by becoming a BDB member, shaping the future of the Palm Beaches.
View more photos from the tour of three innovative companies in the Glades Region.
