October 17, 2000
Business today
COURT SETS UP CAT FIGHT: Exxon Mobil Corp. and Kellogg Co. are bound for federal court to settle a dispute over their respective tiger mascots. The Supreme Court, without comment, let stand a lower court ruling that it isn't too late for Kellogg to make a trademark claim, even though both trademarked tigers have been around for more than 30 years. Kellogg contends Exxon is using its unnamed tiger to sell food at its TigerMart stores. Tony the Tiger debuted in 1952; Exxon, then known as Standard Oil, introduced its cartoon tiger in 1964.
Vitality's business plan to cost 150 jobs
The Tampa juice company wants to exit processing and instead focus on other businesses, affecting most of its Bartow operations.
Report: Florida economy average
The study praises Florida's diverse business climate, but says it needs more high-quality jobs.
RMS Titanic's finances a bit cloudy
The Clearwater company's profits tumble, it has little cash on hand, and court controversies continue to flare.
Business briefs
AUGUST INVENTORIES RISE: Stockpiles of goods at U.S. businesses rose more than expected in August as new cars and trucks arrived on dealer lots and stores prepared for the Christmas shopping season. The Commerce Department said inventories at manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers rose 0.7 percent for the month. Overall business sales rose 0.5 percent.
