First Florida Jack in the Box site set for Longwood, company says it will create jobs

Representatives for Jack in the Box told the Longwood City Commission Jan. 19 that the chain is opening its first Florida location in the city and expects to create multiple jobs for the area.

Eric Cornell, speaking for local franchisee Ed Zausch, said the restaurant at 815 W. State Road 434 will open to the public Feb. 19 with a ribbon cutting March 6. “If we do this perfectly right, we're gonna be able to give from 350 to about 600 people jobs throughout Central Florida,” Cornell said, adding that the local Longwood site has already hired about 42 employees and will continue recruiting.

Cornell praised the city for permitting assistance that helped speed the opening. Commissioners welcomed the business and noted the project repurposes the former Wendy’s location; Commissioner Morgan and Deputy Mayor Shoemaker offered personal remarks supporting the new business.

No municipal incentives or financial commitments were discussed on the record at the meeting; the remarks were presented during public participation as an informational update.