City presents inaugural GEM Award to oldest business

City presents inaugural GEM Award to oldest business

Published on December 15, 2025

The oldest business in North Port was recognized with a new award last week by the City of North Port.

The City's Economic Development Division presented the inaugural GEM Award to Sam the Barber of North Port, originally known as Tom's Barbershop. The recognition took place during a special City Commission meeting held Dec. 11 in the Commission Chambers.

The GEM Award celebrates local businesses that have become integral to the community, demonstrating stability, character and long-term contribution to North Port's economic and cultural life.

Located at 13615 Tamiami Trail, the barber shop has been a staple for residents since the early 1960s. Through multiple owners and name changes, the barbershop has remained a welcoming fixture in the same storefront, serving generations of North Port families for more than 60 years.

"This barbershop is a true North Port original," said Michael Meerman, the City's Economic Development Manager. "Honoring them with our first GEM Award is a perfect way to celebrate both tradition and the entrepreneurial spirit that keeps North Port thriving."

Sam Avetisyan, who recently took over ownership of the barbershop, accepted the award. Avetisyan moved to North Port about two years ago from New York, where he spent more than 30 years cutting hair.

"I was very surprised to learn it is the oldest business in North Port," Avetisyan said. "I'm honored to continue this legacy and bring up the barber shop to a higher level and serve my community."

The Economic Development Division plans to continue recognizing local businesses quarterly through the GEM Award program, highlighting those that contribute to the city's unique character and sustained growth.

For more information about the City's Economic Development initiatives, visit DevelopNorthPort.com.

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