For nearly seven decades, Brandt, one of America’s leading agriculture companies, called a small town in central Illinois home. But five years ago, CEO Rick Brandt made the move to Tampa Bay — a decision that’s transformed both his business and his lifestyle.

“Tampa’s just a much better place to do business,” Brandt shared. “It’s easier, especially from an international standpoint. The airport is incredible, and being here puts us right at the hub of agriculture in the U.S. We’re surrounded by other great companies and opportunities to grow.”

That same enthusiasm extends beyond business and into the community. Brandt’s passion for cars and philanthropy perfectly align with this year’s Gasparilla Concours d’elegance: Cars in the Park, benefitting Champions for Children.

“I’ve always been a car guy,” Brandt said with a smile. “We’ve been a NASCAR sponsor for over 15 years, and at the very first Gasparilla Concours d’elegance, we brought one of our NASCARs — it was such a hit. If there’s a car show, I want to be part of it — whether it’s showing a car or just walking around and taking it all in.”

For Brandt, cars are more than just machines — they’re a way to connect people and purpose. Through the Brandt Foundation, launched in 2012, his family and team have championed charitable efforts across Tampa Bay, from partnerships with the Tampa Bay Lightning to support hunger relief, to deep involvement with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.

“Anything to do with charity, I’m going to be involved,” he said. “Giving back is part of who we are — it’s something my family and our entire team believes in.”

At Cars in the Park on December 6, Brandt will showcase a particularly special car — an endurance championship race car co-driven by NASCAR’s Justin Allgaier and Porsche Series Brazil champion Miguel Paludo, both of whom have made their mark on the international racing stage.

“It’s a very special car,” Brandt said. “Both of their names are on it — and it’s a really cool car to see up close.”

While the connection between agriculture and auto racing may seem unlikely, for Brandt it’s always been about marketing, momentum, and meaning.

“We first got into NASCAR as a marketing decision,” he explained. “It works across the board — men, women, kids, farmers — it connects with everyone. Over time, it’s become part of who we are. We like to say, we win on the track, and we win in the field.”

And that drive — to compete, to innovate, to give — is what continues to make both Brandt and Tampa Bay unstoppable forces.

Join Rick Brandt and other auto enthusiasts at Gasparilla Cars in the Park, where every engine rev helps drive change.

Saturday, December 6
Carrollwood Village Park located in Tampa, FL
10 AM–3 PM
Details & registration → gasparillaconcours.com/cars-in-the-park