Looking for a Business

[dreambig]

We've owned property in the villages for several years and finally moving full time next year.
Being that I will be 55, I would like to continue working for a few years. I have owned several businesses from restaurant/bar, retail, etc.

I am looking for either a current business in the Villages or suggestions for a needed business in the Villages.

[goldseekur]

We REALLY need a REALLY good Pizza place!

[RickeyD]

We've owned property in the villages for several years and finally moving full time next year.
Being that I will be 55, I would like to continue working for a few years. I have owned several businesses from restaurant/bar, retail, etc.

I am looking for either a current business in the Villages or suggestions for a needed business in the Villages.

Bagel's & Bialy's

[Villager Joyce]

I believe any person who is honest and fair will do well. If you aren't, people will figure it out and post about it.

[billethkid]

I believe any person who is honest and fair will do well. If you aren't, people will figure it out and post about it.

And long before the few post about it most will not deal with such folks.

[dreambig]

Lol, you don't have to sell me (or not) on the Villages, lol.
I'm just looking for a business for sale and or ideas..
We've bend loving the Villages for several years...

[dreambig]

You don't have to sell me (or not) on the Villages.
I'm just looking for a business for sale and or ideas..
We've been loving the Villages for several years...
We understand it's not for everyone.

[tomwed]

You don't have to sell me (or not) on the Villages.
I'm just looking for a business for sale and or ideas..
We've been loving the Villages for several years...
We understand it's not for everyone.
What ideas are you considering?

[RichardWalker]

Self serve Car Wash or car wash period

[outlaw]

A good restaurant will make money here. But there are a lot of them. I would steer clear of leasing from the developer, though. I heard they don't negotiate, and it's their way or the highway. A business just off the TV property, but still accessible via golf cart would be a plus but not essential. You could still tap into the TV residents and also have the surrounding population.

[tomwed]

Self serve Car Wash or car wash period
I like that idea. I thought of it too. Some people just love keeping their car perfect. And I'll bet quite a few never had the time to do that properly while they were working.
I have a small car and a wand that I could aim at my wheels that get so dirty so fast would be perfect. I don't feel like buying and storing a power washer.
Do you even have to hire anyone at a self serve place?

[Moderator]

The topic was ideas for a new business. Many off topic and inflammatory posts have been removed.

Please stay on topic.

Moderator

[Bonny]

The topic was ideas for a new business. Many off topic and inflammatory posts have been removed.

Please stay on topic.

Moderator
You are right. I apologize for the posts I wrote !!

[Bonny]

I also like the idea of self wash car wash. I don't want to always use the drive through ones.

[dreambig]

I'm open to anything really.

[dreambig]

Self serve Car Wash or car wash period

Yes, I have noticed the need for a self service car wash.

[dreambig]

What about a night club catering to the 45+, High end, Something you would find in Vegas.
Open after 9 and stays open until 12-1. I know, most Villagers go to bed at 9, lol, I think there are a good number that would like a place to dance into the night. mostly Friday and Saturday crowd.

[GatorFan]

Brownwood/Wildwood area for a restaurant. Good buffet restaurant. Meeting room for clubs, seminars, etc.

[tomwed]

Open after 9 and stays open until 12-1.
At night?

[dbussone]

Yes, I have noticed the need for a self service car wash.


I'd suggest a combo self-service full service wash. Have a full serve bay and 2 self serve bays. The only real full serve wash is up by Spanish Springs. I'd guess there are half of TV residents from Lake Sumter south. I'd use a full serve wash at least once per month if one was closer to where I live - south of 466A. As it is, I use self serve about 3x per month.

By the way, my car manufacturer recommends a "soft touch" self serve wash. The "touchless" washes use stronger chemicals that will damage the finish and paint.

[shumbapie]

We REALLY need a REALLY good Pizza place!

Ditto that! A really good pizza place would clean up. There is nothing like what we had in the Chicago area down here. Aurelio's Pizza (from the Chicago area) has two franchise locations in Florida (Estero and Naples I believe). It's an outstanding product. You may want to look into a franchise with them.

[Villager Joyce]

Car wash is a great idea.

[jgm3279]

I agree with Goldseekur~ pizza pizza!

[SIRE1]

I second the idea for an Aurelio's Pizza. Either that, or a Hungry Howie pizza take out a little closer to the center of The Villages (e.g. maybe along 466). There are 2 Hungry Howies, one in Wildwood and one at the corner of 441 & 42 so both the south and north ends are covered but the center of TV is open. And the only Aurelio's in Florida is in Naples and Ft. Meyers. With all the people from the Chicago and Indiana area that are in TV, that would surely be a hit.

[dbussone]

I second the idea for an Aurelio's Pizza. Either that, or a Hungry Howie pizza take out a little closer to the center of The Villages (e.g. maybe along 466). There are 2 Hungry Howies, one in Wildwood and one at the corner of 441 & 42 so both the south and north ends are covered but the center of TV is open. And the only Aurelio's in Florida is in Naples and Ft. Meyers. With all the people from the Chicago and Indiana area that are in TV, that would surely be a hit.


I love pizza, but I do not include Hungry Howies in that category. I have not been exposed to Aurelio's since I'm from Boston, but it sounds like it might be worth a try.

Is Uno's worth considering?

[NYGUY]

I would suggest you don't listen to any of these suggestions. Do your own research and good luck!!

[dbussone]

I would suggest you don't listen to any of these suggestions. Do your own research and good luck!!


Isn't there anything you'd suggest? The OP asked for suggestions as part of his/her research.

[Nucky]

The answer is driving everybody up the wall. Incentivize a driver's safety school. Save on your policy if your past a certain age and graduate from a driving simulator without running anyone over and of course several hours of book learning skills. Can you imagine the pride this could build in people and the chance to teach them in an orderly fashion how to properly negotiate different Villages road situations without blowing someone's wig off. And even though they have to pay if they save on their insurance...Winner, winner, chicken dinner. You'll be a billionaire. Open this next to a carwash where the people drying the car are clothed, topless, wearing a speedo. Have a menu. mix & match. Best of luck to you. Probably better off putting your money into Lobster futures.:1rotfl:

[dreambig]

Thanks I will look into them

[DangeloInspections]

A refreshing and interesting topic. I agree it is difficult to find a good pizza here....although a "good pizza" is different for folks, contingent on where you are from. N.Y.C. folks want the thin style, while folks from Chicago want a deep dish.

There are not a lot of ice cream places around. Also, not a lot of coffee/donut places around. Both would be wonderful.

I like the driving school idea....you can focus on "how to drive in roundabouts" and "how slow vehicles should stay in the RIGHT lane", etc, etc.

Perhaps a "Camp Bow-Wow"...a fancier place for folks to keep pets when they travel. The ones up north are very successful...

Perhaps a mobile car/golf cart detailing service where one comes to the home to detail a car so the homeowner does not need to drive it anywhere.

Anyway, just a few ideas....perhaps more will come after I had some coffee. I have found that if one is honest, provides a good service and does what they say and say what they do, returns calls and actually shows up when promised you can do well. Good luck! Frank

[bwahrend]

A Planet Fitness would do well anywhere near The Villages

[tomwed]

A self-service car washes in multiple bay configurations where the customer washes their vehicle using wand technology.
This is a vacation resort. People are always drivng into town and everything is clean and rosey. Why not your car?
It's a warm climate. And best of all you can be open 24/7 without any employee. You could have cameras all over so if there is any problems you would know about it.
The location is important.
The advertising is important.
Maybe you could even set up the automated system so that off hours are less expensive that popular hours.
Maybe you could set up a golf cart bay. I'm not sure yet what would be different.
I wonder if you could recycle the water? Most of it goes down the drain. Could it be filtered? Does that mean it's a green business? You might be able to get some kind of assistance. This is just brainstorming, nothing more.

[graciegirl]

A Donato's Franchise, Please.


A year ago I would have said Chipotle's....but not now.

[tomwed]

A Donato's Franchise, Please.


A year ago I would have said Chipotle's....but not now.
Isn't that interesting? The franchise best known for local ingredients, freshness, preparation in front of you and now it's crashing and burning.

Why not make a Chipoltes knock-off and side-step the franchise fees now that the name is tainted. After all it was what they served that was appealing. I don't think they had any secret sauce that could not be replicated.

And I think our restaurant club said Tomatoes had the highest rating. How about a Tomatoes down the other end of town? I don't know how close to the turnpike you could be but when we are traveling we would go out of our way for a fresh buffet.

[GreggB]

Car wash/quick oil change combo place, I agree we need good pizza, a good convenience store open past 9pm, could tie in with the coffee/donut/bagel place. I contacted WAWA a while ago and suggested several location just across the roadways from Village property (on Village property would be great but not sure they would go for that, but locations like Powell & 466A, across Powell in Brownwood, on 466A by Colony... A place like Jersey Mikes further south than current location (I'm not a Subway fan), a Boston Market, Home meal delivery service(but would be better if tied in with some place like Darrel's Diner).

[Happinow]

A real ice cream store would be welcomed. We have the frozen yogurt places here but no real, rich ice cream. Oddly enough, in my home town,,which had a population of about 45,000, within about 5-7 mile there were 5 real good soft ice cream shops. All thrived in the short warm months for getting ice cream. It was seasonal up there. Here in Florida, where on most any given day, the weather is hot and a nice, cold, creamy ice cream would be great! Ice cream sundaes, shakes, cones, banana splits....etc. It could be a booming business provided the location was good. When I go to Hobby Lobby either in Ocala or Eustis, they have an old ice cream shop really close By. The shop is a free standing building that is in the shape of an ice cream cone. We always stop there as part of our trip. It would be a great business to get into in Florida!

[looneycat]

a brazilian bbq would do well here the closest is ipanema in ocala.

[champion6]

Dairy Queen is nationally recognized, but missing from TV. My understanding is that there was one on 466, but it was poorly managed and failed.

[Bonny]

Dairy Queen is nationally recognized, but missing from TV. My understanding is that there was one on 466, but it was poorly managed and failed.
We had 2 of them. One on 441 & one on 466. I really miss DQ. We liked their burgers & I loved a banana split once in awhile.

[kstew43]

Car washes use water and water is very expensive in the Villages...just saying..

How about another Chick-fil-la on the south side. there is one on 27 but thats the only one......they do a great business....and they close on sunday.....

[shumbapie]

A refreshing and interesting topic. I agree it is difficult to find a good pizza here....although a "good pizza" is different for folks, contingent on where you are from. N.Y.C. folks want the thin style, while folks from Chicago want a deep dish.

There are not a lot of ice cream places around. Also, not a lot of coffee/donut places around. Both would be wonderful.

I like the driving school idea....you can focus on "how to drive in roundabouts" and "how slow vehicles should stay in the RIGHT lane", etc, etc.

Perhaps a "Camp Bow-Wow"...a fancier place for folks to keep pets when they travel. The ones up north are very successful...

Perhaps a mobile car/golf cart detailing service where one comes to the home to detail a car so the homeowner does not need to drive it anywhere.

Anyway, just a few ideas....perhaps more will come after I had some coffee. I have found that if one is honest, provides a good service and does what they say and say what they do, returns calls and actually shows up when promised you can do well. Good luck! Frank

I'm, from the Chicago area and I much prefer thin crust pizza. Aurelio's pizza is known for their thin crust. Someone else on this thread asked about Uno's Pizza from Chicago. They have a very good deep dish pizza. I understand that pizza taste is regional but I'll put Aurelio's up against any other pizza.

[Marathon Man]

I'm, from the Chicago area and I much prefer thin crust pizza. Aurelio's pizza is known for their thin crust. Someone else on this thread asked about Uno's Pizza from Chicago. They have a very good deep dish pizza. I understand that pizza taste is regional but I'll put Aurelio's up against any other pizza.

I haven't had Aurelio's in 35 years. I would be there on opening day. :icon_hungry:

[queasy27]

If you prefer to work on a smaller scale and control all aspects of your company, the Villages has an unending appetite for service businesses: home watch, house cleaning, power washing, lawn maintenance, handyman, car detailing, personal driving, running errands, etc. You wouldn't exactly be raking in the money, though.

[Retiring]

As someone that grew up in Queens and as an Italian citizen that has spent a good piece of my life in Italy, I would classify myself as a pizza snob. NYC pizza is the best, and yes even better than Italy, in my opinion. In my travels I occasionally run into a pizza place that comes close to what you find in NY. In AZ you have NYPD in Scottsdale, in Las Vegas you have the pizza place on the first floor of the Venetian, and in TV you have Bravo’s in LSL which is ok, no not great but for this pizza snob to say their pizza is ok, that’s a major endorsement.

What I did not find in TV was a good bagel shop, or a “real” deli. Also, when I was there I did not see a car wash/detail shop, is there one in TV? Personally, I like having my vehicles hand washed and couple times a year detailed but don’t know how well that would sell in a community with a great number on a fixed income. If there isn’t a detail shop in TV, my vote (and it’s worth what you paid for it) is auto detail, bagels, or a deli in that order.

A good product or service, at a reasonable price with good customer service, will do well.

[tomwed]

Car washes use water and water is very expensive in the Villages...just saying..
Because water is expensive that may be another reason villagers would go to a car wash.
I'm guessing an efficient wand that is monitored, and turns off after so many gallons would be more efficient then what the homeowner has even if recycling is not feasible.


I had a great idea for a business years ago. Long before anyone else I thought I could rent audio books to drivers going up and down 95. The idea was you pick it up at one rest stop and drop it off at another.
It didn't go anywhere but I did end up at the Rutgers University Business department in Camden. There were experts there that helped me put together a business plan and do research, all for free.

[Duppa]

A Planet Fitness would do well anywhere near The Villages

There is a PF in Leesburg off 27, approximately 11 minutes from Rohan (Morse/44). In PA, PF has been a huge hit... $10 per month (with min start-up fees). Haven't been to Leesburg PF (but will when we move in after January 22!), but the fees at Rohan's "gym" and the place in Brownwood are VERY pricey.

Do not know the exclusivity for sites, but PF is actively seeking franchisees.

In looking at business ops, the build out area in Southeast (down Morse, off 44) appears a calculated risk (to the plus side); lots of new TV folks, lots of new money, lots of folks looking to establish "their" local digs... restaurants have to be a top choice (but at our age, seriously, isn't it counterintuitive to work 80hrs plus a week to establish a solid business when setting up our retirement castle?)... Unless, you are setting up a restaurant business with your younger relations poised to run things, perhaps some service business? Dog training-grooming? Golf Cart rental? Handy Andy Home repairs? Uber drive?

[villagetinker]

My wife would LOVE a WAWA, closest one is Orlando (last I checked).

However, keep in mind the swings in population, local traditions (aka happy hours, etc.), golf cart access is a must. O'Shays just across RT 44 failed, and I am sure this was partly due to the fact GC cannot cross 44. The GC access, will probably mean you will be under developer control, not sure how much 'other' land is available with this access.

Good luck in your quest.

[Chatbrat]

Actually a car wash on rt 44- between the two new Publiex

[Skip]

One word !

"CUPCAKES"

Skip

[slipcovers]

A great business is ZIP CAR. Snowbirds and snowflakes could fly down, use their cart and when a car is needed, rent a zip car for a day or a few hours. They would be a good alternative to keeping a second car in TV.

[Chatbrat]

As far as pizza goes , a real coal fired NY pizza is $$$ maker. When we lived in Cary NC, a family from the Bronx-opened one--they were restaurant of the year in the triangle. They solid after 3 years , made mucho $$$- the new owners screwed up and its now a World of Beer

Whatever you do, make sure who the property owner is !!!

[kstew43]

Because water is expensive that may be another reason villagers would go to a car wash.
I'm guessing an efficient wand that is monitored, and turns off after so many gallons would be more efficient then what the homeowner has even if recycling is not feasible.


I had a great idea for a business years ago. Long before anyone else I thought I could rent audio books to drivers going up and down 95. The idea was you pick it up at one rest stop and drop it off at another.
It didn't go anywhere but I did end up at the Rutgers University Business department in Camden. There were experts there that helped me put together a business plan and do research, all for free.

Cracker Barrel had those audio tapes for our long car rides along the major highways....they didnt last long...

[dbussone]

Car washes use water and water is very expensive in the Villages...just saying..



How about another Chick-fil-la on the south side. there is one on 27 but thats the only one......they do a great business....and they close on sunday.....


Actually water is a lot less expensive here than it is in other places- like Las Vegas. While the strip hotels had their fountains, homeowners and other businesses took it on the chin.

[tomwed]

Cracker Barrel had those audio tapes for our long car rides along the major highways....they didnt last long...
I know. That was after my idea. My kids tease me about all my ideas. Just like I used to tease my dad.

My father's last idea was to a huge cell phone keyboard on the car floor so you could dial with your left foot and keep both hands on the wheel.
As he got older, we would just say"That's a good idea dad" and leave it at that. I'm waiting for that.

It's coming fast

[Shimpy]

There is a restaurant 1 hour from TV in Hernando called "Reds". It is a goldmine and extremely busy, breakfast and lunch. They serve excellent food, lots of it and at a good price. Country looking and atmosphere. It's in the middle of nowhere and has large crowds. If located near TV it would be another goldmine. After talking to one of the employees I learned they would like to open another one somewhere in the area. It would be worth checking out.

[tomwed]

As far as pizza goes , a real coal fired NY pizza is $$$ maker. When we lived in Cary NC, a family from the Bronx-opened one--they were restaurant of the year in the triangle. They solid after 3 years , made mucho $$$- the new owners screwed up and its now a World of Beer

Whatever you do, make sure who the property owner is !!!
How about World of Soda? Not everybody drinks you know.

[RichardWalker]

I like a drive thru car wash with an area to vacuum. The last one I went to gave everyone that requested them two hand towels to wipe down their car on the inside and outside.
$6.00

[Nucky]

I know. That was after my idea. My kids tease me about all my ideas. Just like I used to tease my dad.

My father's last idea was to a huge cell phone keyboard on the car floor so you could dial with your left foot and keep both hands on the wheel.
As he got older, we would just say"That's a good idea dad" and leave it at that. I'm waiting for that.

It's coming fast

I face some of the same teasing from my kids over technology issues. Eventually when the answers I find on the internet don't solve the problem and I have to ask for help they let me have it. I would rather eat a goldfish than ask for help. They make me feel bad sometimes but now I remind them that is was me that taught them how to use a spoon. That usually quiets them down. When Who Wants To Be A Millionaire first came out and I would go straight to $1,000,000 they were amazed. My head is full of useless information but it felt great to have the kids look at me like I was a brain surgeon. I would love to know the day they crossed over and became smarter than the old man. Tom I'm like your dad in that I'm always thinking about engineering something better. Especially with the entrepreneurial shows that are on television nowadays.

Flipping hurting houses in TV is a wonderful business. If you need an assist Here we are.

[golf2140]

This is easy "Hooters" they have great wings.

[Bogie Shooter]

How about World of Soda? Not everybody drinks you know.

Yes, all that sugar is good for you.

[dbussone]

Thanks I will look into them


I believe Tomwed had the idea of consultants. I think that is a great idea. The Villages has a local chapter of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives). I don't believe they charge much, if anything. You get the brainpower of men and women who have been successful and want to help others. I bet they could be very helpful.

The rest of us have some good ideas but they may not be what you are looking for. Besides, you know what they say about too many cooks....

Whatever you do we will welcome you to TV and look forward to your business decision.

--------------------------------------

Oh - GE, Barefoot, Nucky, Tal, Tomwed and I would be happy to join you as partners in a local lobster pound for a certain Maine crustacean.

[Erika]

We have been looking all around for a brushless car wash self-service or not. Just can't seem to find one.

[Wavy Chips]

Obviously the answer is a car wash that serves pizza. Any other questions?:laugh:

[dbussone]

Obviously the answer is a car wash that serves pizza. Any other questions?:laugh:


I presume it would have a drive through pizza pickup?

[mm1717]

I second the motion for REALLY GOOD PIZZA

[tomwed]

I presume it would have a drive through pizza pickup?
Won't the pizza get wet?

[dbussone]

Won't the pizza get wet?


Depends on whether you pick it up on the front end or back end.

[USSGompers]

I have had an idea for years. So many people have dogs that need a bath. Groomers are expensive and let's face it, it's hard to wash a dog by yourself in the bathroom

So I came up with a Doggie Mat (like laundry mat) where I would have about 6-8 stalls to rent out by the hour, consisting of stainless tubs/sinks, a pole to attach your dog's leash/ collar and a hair dryer

I would be there to sell dog shampoo, rent towels, etc to customers that forget theirs

No nail clipper techs, or fur cutting or shaving--just a good clean dog wash

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

A good restaurant will make money here. But there are a lot of them. I would steer clear of leasing from the developer, though. I heard they don't negotiate, and it's their way or the highway. A business just off the TV property, but still accessible via golf cart would be a plus but not essential. You could still tap into the TV residents and also have the surrounding population.

Property just outside of TV property and still accessible by golf cart is very rare.

You have Lowes, Bealls, Aldi and Walmart and the little stores adjacent to them on 27/441. I don't know about the Wal Mart and those stores on 466. I think that property might be owned by TV. Other than that, I think if you want to use your cart, you have to stay in the bubble.

This one of the reasons that the rents within TV are so high and the developer doesn't have to negotiate. The properties within the bubble are that much more valuable.

[borjo]

I have had an idea for years. So many people have dogs that need a bath. Groomers are expensive and let's face it, it's hard to wash a dog by yourself in the bathroom

So I came up with a Doggie Mat (like laundry mat) where I would have about 6-8 stalls to rent out by the hour, consisting of stainless tubs/sinks, a pole to attach your dog's leash/ collar and a hair dryer

I would be there to sell dog shampoo, rent towels, etc to customers that forget theirs

No nail clipper techs, or fur cutting or shaving--just a good clean dog wash

What a wonderful idea! Yes this is sorely needed. Why pay $20-40 for grooming when you could do it yourself if only you had the equipment to do it without leaning over a tub. About $10 per 15' sounds great to me. Two platforms set up as kiosks inside or out all over The Villages would be frequently used. Tapping into hot water if outside might be troublesome but maybe some business would let you do that for a fee. Set up a vending machine type unit next to them for supplies, soap, towel etc.
It's fun to brainstorm!

[The Buckeyes]

We've owned property in the villages for several years and finally moving full time next year.
Being that I will be 55, I would like to continue working for a few years. I have owned several businesses from restaurant/bar, retail, etc.

I am looking for either a current business in the Villages or suggestions for a needed business in the Villages.

This may be slightly off topic but, did anyone catch that someone says they have owned property in The Villages for several years and it has gone undeveloped. I thought all property in the Villages is owned by and sold by the developer and, you have a certain amount of time required before you have to build on it. Thoughts anyone?

[TNLAKEPANDA]

We REALLY need a REALLY good Pizza place! :agree:

Yes and it should be in Brownwood area! There is no competition but it better be really good pizza!

[jimmemac]

a wawa would make a killing here!!!

[dreambig]

This may be slightly off topic but, did anyone catch that someone says they have owned property in The Villages for several years and it has gone undeveloped. I thought all property in the Villages is owned by and sold by the developer and, you have a certain amount of time required before you have to build on it. Thoughts anyone?

We own a home in the villages. Not commercial property.

[USSGompers]

What a wonderful idea! Yes this is sorely needed. Why pay $20-40 for grooming when you could do it yourself if only you had the equipment to do it without leaning over a tub. About $10 per 15' sounds great to me. Two platforms set up as kiosks inside or out all over The Villages would be frequently used. Tapping into hot water if outside might be troublesome but maybe some business would let you do that for a fee. Set up a vending machine type unit next to them for supplies, soap, towel etc.
It's fun to brainstorm!

Thank you so much. I have been thinking about this for a long time.

I used to have a small long haired dog and a big spaniel. Giving them a bath in the bathroom was a nightmare. The small one was fast and would jump out as soon as he went in. When it was the bigger one's turn, she'd try to climb out and I spent most of the time--not washing her---but trying to keep her in the tub :(

To use the hose outside was just as bad. I needed someone to help or the dog would high-tail down the road.

[dreambig]

Great Thread. Exactly what I was looking for. Brainstorm, ideas..keep them coming.

how about a car wash in combo with a pet wash?

About the Pizza ideas, What makes the pizza great? is it the sauce, cheese, crust? I did look up Aurelio's Pizza :icon_hungry:

[tomwed]

Great Thread. Exactly what I was looking for. Brainstorm, ideas..keep them coming.

how about a car wash in combo with a pet wash?

About the Pizza ideas, What makes the pizza great? is it the sauce, cheese, crust? I did look up Aurelio's Pizza :icon_hungry:
I don't know if this is helpful.

The best pizza I ever had was in Rome 3 years ago. We walked a long way to go to restaurant that was closed. The sign said they would reopen 8 pm for dinner.

We found a pizza place nearby that was in a business district. Only 1 person was working. Going from the oven in the back to the counter in the front of the store. The pizza'a were square. You could order anything that was cooked. They had a variety of toppings or you could order a fresh one. When you ordered he would hold a cutter over the pie and you would point if you wanted wider or narrower. He cut the piece and weighed it and charged by the weight.

A customer came in and picked up a whole pie. He wrapped it in coated paper, not put it in a box.

I gathered it was a slow day. I don't know if it's that way all over Italy.

ps is it the sauce, cheese, crust? it's all of it.

The best pizza I ever had was DeLorenzos. Read about it and you might get some ideas. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/De_Lorenzo%27s_Tomato_Pies

It was clean but there were no bathrooms for customers.
DeLorenzo's fans, rejoice! New site has restrooms | NJ.com (http://www.nj.com/entertainment/dining/index.ssf/2008/04/delorenzos_fans_rejoice_new_si.html)

It was a rough neighborhood when I used to go. I only went with the other high school coaches after work before Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter vacations. They only served Pizza and soda. I asked for a salad once, and like the SNL skit, the guy said "No salad, just pizza."

[Shimpy]

Self serve Car Wash or car wash period

My driveway is my self serve car wash and it is free. Always has been since about 1956 for my first car. It got washed and waxed EVERY week.

[Ooper]

I have had an idea for years. So many people have dogs that need a bath. Groomers are expensive and let's face it, it's hard to wash a dog by yourself in the bathroom

So I came up with a Doggie Mat (like laundry mat) where I would have about 6-8 stalls to rent out by the hour, consisting of stainless tubs/sinks, a pole to attach your dog's leash/ collar and a hair dryer

I would be there to sell dog shampoo, rent towels, etc to customers that forget theirs

No nail clipper techs, or fur cutting or shaving--just a good clean dog wash

Although one closer to The Villages would be great, there already is a place like this up near the Market of Marion next to Big Al's Barber Shop.

[DigitalGranny]

Good bagel shop for me, please!

[Wavy Chips]

Great Thread. Exactly what I was looking for. Brainstorm, ideas..keep them coming.

how about a car wash in combo with a pet wash?

About the Pizza ideas, What makes the pizza great? is it the sauce, cheese, crust? I did look up Aurelio's Pizza :icon_hungry:

Ok, let me revise my previous suggestion:

Combination car wash / dog wash / Papa Murphy's take-and-bake Pizza

-or-

a Neiman Marcus

-or-

given the posts on the thread about gate arms, a business selling and installing gate arms in TV!

[twoplanekid]

To have something to do while in the Villages for 3 months, I was going to take my friends Pizza trailer down to sell pizza at the festivals in the squares. A good idea not yet fulfilled. I do like wood grilled pizza that is done in 10 seconds and only costs $10.

[baustgen]

Portillo's. Go on their website and check out the menu.

[MnGirl]

Dog wash sounds easy, but comes with many problems!
Unless you have staff on sight to clean up after everyone, the place will be a disaster. The drains become clogged with dog hair, the walls have hair stuck to them and must be washed down, and the first time a customer finds fleas on their dog when they get home you'll be out of business. People will come, use the facilities leave it a mess (not their problem). Also, unreal as it may sound, owners get bit by their own dogs, don't think that some of that won't come back on you. Good Idea, but you better be up for a lot of problems.

[Bogie Shooter]

We have been looking all around for a brushless car wash self-service or not. Just can't seem to find one.

Southern Trace Shell station on 466.

[Bogie Shooter]

Great Thread. Exactly what I was looking for. Brainstorm, ideas..keep them coming.

how about a car wash in combo with a pet wash?

About the Pizza ideas, What makes the pizza great? is it the sauce, cheese, crust? I did look up Aurelio's Pizza :icon_hungry:

Its like beauty, in the eyes of the beholder.......................If you look at a thread on pizza with 50 posts, 40 of them will be different.
PS: nearly all had better pizza "back home".

[Bogie Shooter]

To have something to do while in the Villages for 3 months, I was going to take my friends Pizza trailer down to sell pizza at the festivals in the squares. A good idea not yet fulfilled. I do like wood grilled pizza that is done in 10 seconds and only costs $10.

Better submit a request to set up that trailer at the squares, before bringing the trailer down; from wherever.

[asianthree]

Dog wash sounds easy, but comes with many problems!
Unless you have staff on sight to clean up after everyone, the place will be a disaster. The drains become clogged with dog hair, the walls have hair stuck to them and must be washed down, and the first time a customer finds fleas on their dog when they get home you'll be out of business. People will come, use the facilities leave it a mess (not their problem). Also, unreal as it may sound, owners get bit by their own dogs, don't think that some of that won't come back on you. Good Idea, but you better be up for a lot of problems.

most pet supply stores now have dog wash areas. 90% of the room is stainless steel the tubs have walk in doors for extremely large dogs. It's been working with no problems at pet supplies store for over four years. It would work well for extremely large dogs in the villages. For the small ones you can just throw them in your sink at home. Have never had an issue with bringing home any fleas. Really saves your back when your dog weighs over 60 pounds.

[Boomer]

I think a Skyline Chili franchise would do really well in TV.

Of course, that would mean a big investment in franchise fees. But if you are an experienced restaurant owner and at a point where you could make, or would want to make, that kind of investment, it might be worth at least looking into Skyline Chili.

Anyone from Cincinnati knows about our city's addiction to 3-ways, 4-ways, and 5-ways, sometimes with a cheese coney.

There are those who are new to Cincinnati and mock our chili -- for a while -- but if they try it, they get hooked, too. In fact, I know one who mocked when he arrived in town, but now his local Skyline knows his order before he gives it to them. HAH!

Also, Skyline will give you a bib if you want one. Offering a bib is not an insult. It is helpful......Let's say, for instance, you have escaped the downtown P&G offices for a Skyline fix and you don't want to show up at an afternoon meeting with chili on your front.

Now, I must warn you......Sometimes, especially lately, TOTV threads can turn a bit ugly, and there is a small chance that there could be a Cincinnatian reading this who thinks Gold Star chili is better than Skyline and will challenge my advice........Do NOT listen to such foolishness. I know I won't.

There are a few Skylines in Florida, on the coast. I really do think a Skyline in TV, run right, could be a big hit. Might want to do a little homework on what it would take........I could be your consultant. Or pass out bibs and oyster crackers and memorize the regulars' orders.

Boomer (small 4-way, onions on the side)

[600th Photo Sq]

There is a terrific Bagel place already here...Brooklyn Bagel near Kohls why do you want another ? Anyone would be hard pressed to beat their Bagels.

[tomwed]

Curious why you would want another Bagel place when Brooklyn Bagel is near Kohls. One of the bagels that I have had Fresh baked on the premises.
It's 10 miles away for many people. There's 20 places to get bacon and eggs right around the corner. Beside you can make that at home. You can't make a bagel in a reasonable amount of time.

but if you can---please share,,,thank-you

[600th Photo Sq]

Looking at some of the answers to your request are either far out, off the chart, and bordering on stupidity..so here is a Genuine business ( successful ) that is up For Sale now.

The business is selling Pickleball paddles and accessories the location is Sumter Landing in a booth. Contact Al Palmer ( Owner ) 352-250-8508..Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America..another is his email...pickleball@thevillages.net Hope this helps.

[600th Photo Sq]

You will I'm certain run into a Brick Wall and will be run out of town Why ?

a) Spanish Springs Town Square: Conflict ...Flippers Pizza

b) Lake Sumter Landing : Red Sauce and Bravo Pizza

c) Brownwood : Ricciardi's Restaurant

I just saved you a Gigantic Headache...The Villages would never in a million years let you in.

[JGVillages]

There is a fast growing restaurant franchise, CULVER"S that started in the midwest and is now expanding in Florida. It offers different flavors of on-site made Custard (ice cream) daily and has a variety of burgers, sandwiches, fish and salads. This is a high end, classy fast food restaurant that would do very well in The Villages. The closest thing here is Steak-N-Shake, and in my opinion this is better. Check it out.

[drdodge]

I had a small business but due to age I stopped doing that work I installed garage door windows and vents and lani drains but stopped doing it due to age South of 466a all of the garage doors do not have windows in the door and a lot of people want vents. you will have very little investment and you can work out of your home. all of the open top lanis need a drain to get rid of water. send mw a pm and I will respond

[HoosierPa]

We are in need of many businesses on the South end of The Villages. Most all the shopping is on the North End. Also, there are no fast food Restaurants South of the McDonalds at Colony Plaza. I would focus on a location on 44 between Morse and Powell Road near Brownwood.

[golfing eagles]

There is a terrific Bagel place already here...Brooklyn Bagel near Kohls why do you want another ? Anyone would be hard pressed to beat their Bagels.

Brooklyn water bagel is great, but another one near Brownwood would be even better. Takes me 25 min there and another 25 back just to get a breakfast bagel.

[Carla B]

First of all, I'd like to see Uber in TV. Second of all, a small gourmet "Food to Go" shop, where really good home cooked dishes were sold, from appetizers, salads and soups, main dishes through desserts. The shop could also stock frozen soups and entrees, desserts, etc. They would feature daily or weekly specials, published on their website, so that there would be a variety of offerings.

I've never seen a shop like that but I started thinking about it when I got "The Silver Palate Cookbook" years ago, containing recipes for dishes sold at The Silver Palate, a tiny 165-sq. ft. shop in Manhattan, opened in the late 70's by two busy young women. IMO, any or all of the town squares would be the perfect setting for such a place.

[tomwed]

I had a small business but due to age I stopped doing that work I installed garage door windows and vents and lani drains but stopped doing it due to age South of 466a all of the garage doors do not have windows in the door and a lot of people want vents. you will have very little investment and you can work out of your home. all of the open top lanis need a drain to get rid of water. send mw a pm and I will respond
What a great guy. You're the man.

[tomwed]

This idea is pie in the sky and much too expensive but we're brainstorming. Instead of those little cars all over that you can rent every now and then how about a minivan that you rent every now and then. Buy a smartcar for the villages. It fits in front of a golf cart in the garage. When you need to go off campus rent a minivan for safety or move something.

Now you don't need to sell a house to get a bigger one with a golf cart garage.

[tomwed]

Does anyone know where I can buy pastrami locally that tastes like this?
https://katzsdelicatessen.goldbely.com/

[HoosierPa]

There is a terrific Bagel place already here...Brooklyn Bagel near Kohls why do you want another ? Anyone would be hard pressed to beat their Bagels.

No bagels down south that I know of except for Dunkin' Donuts at Brownwood

[village dreamer]

We are in need of many businesses on the South end of The Villages. Most all the shopping is on the North End. Also, there are no fast food Restaurants South of the McDonalds at Colony Plaza. I would focus on a location on 44 between Morse and Powell Road near Brownwood.

I 2nd this , we need everything on rt44 near Brownwood.

[tomwed]

I 2nd this , we need everything on rt44 near Brownwood.
I bought in Collier. I was thinking whatever I see on the north end of town I will see on the south. The longer I'm here the more I think I got it wrong. Take Sam's Club, Chick-filet, the croquet/lawn bowling court, archery, even the Polo Fields for example. They may have been planned for 200k people so we haven't come close to their next location.
I don't see any of it coming in a long time. I'm OK with that. Besides, you know how crazy those lawn bowlers can get during mating season.

[Walt.]

What would be nice in the south end would be a Mini-Golf Complex. Perhaps 3-4 courses grouped together. Built of concrete, with few moving parts, low staffing needs, and thousands of active Villagers looking for things to do... Maybe the Villages should build it.

[baustgen]

I would suggest a good hot dog stand. Offer both Chicago dogs and Nathan's. South of 466. Also need a,car wash on 44.

[NotGolfer]

Purchase a Culver's franchise...the folks from the midwest would thank you! Google them...it's Wisconsin based and a nice clean more "upscale-ish" fast food that serves fresh foods. Hamburgers never frozen...and more!

[jimmemac]

Bring in something that the people have asked for in large numbers=A WAWA built just off the villages on like rt 44 would make a killing and there are wawa's not that far away that thrive!!!

[photo1902]

Bring in something that the people have asked for in large numbers=A WAWA built just off the villages on like rt 44 would make a killing and there are wawa's not that far away that thrive!!!

:clap2: