latest articles

Himle Horner Changes Name, Moves to Mpls.

The new name reflects ownership changes that have occurred in recent years; former co-owner Thomas Horner left the firm in 2010, and Todd Rapp became a co-owner in 2008 and now shares that title with CEO and founder John Himle.

Local Real Estate Pros Convey “Eroding Confidence”

A twice-yearly survey by the University of St. Thomas Opus College of Business indicates that local real estate professionals are less confident about the near future of the commercial real estate industry than they were just six months ago.

Forbes: MN Is the 15th-Best State for Business

Minnesota didn't budge from its spot on last year's list; while the state ranked third for its quality of life and also scored higher than most other states for labor supply and growth prospects, it trailed behind most other states for regulatory environment and business costs.

Hormel Doles Out $16.5M in Profit-Sharing Program

Eligible Hormel Foods workers received a share of $16.5 million in profit-sharing payouts; meanwhile, Marvin Windows and Doors, which has traditionally given bonuses to its workers, reportedly will not pay out profit-sharing bonuses this year due to a slumping housing market.

Angel Tax Funds Used Up for ’11; State Accepting Apps for ’12

All of the nearly $16 million in angel tax credits available this year was used up as of last week; but the state has another $12 million in credits to distribute in 2012 and has begun accepting applications from investors and businesses wanting to participate in the program.

Ford Center Closes on Financing, Renovation Nearly Done

A California-based investor announced that it collaborated with two other community development entities to provide a $23 million tax credit financing package for the renovation of the downtown Minneapolis building, which is expected to be completed in February, although tenants will begin moving in next month.

Medtronic to Sell External Defibrillator Biz for $487M

The medical device company's Washington-based Physio-Control unit has reportedly been plagued with quality issues since Medtronic bought it in 1998, but buyer Bain Capital, LLC, called it a "market leader" and said that it has exciting "growth prospects."