Despite their current predicament, Jose Molina and Raul Ortiz de la Renta remain resolute. Their legal battle continues against LRMF Owner LLC and other entities, hoping that their struggle will set a precedent for similar cases. Stok, their attorney, is adamant that his clients are victims of a calculated plot to exploit Miami-Dade's 40-year recertification process.

"They fabricated concerns about the structural integrity of the building to force Grupo Sur out," Stok asserts. "They wanted to redevelop this prime real estate with new tenants who could pay more."

Molina and Ortiz de la Renta recount the day they were forced out, describing the disbelief that engulfed them as their staff and equipment were left behind in a business they had painstakingly built for nearly 20 years. This closure had a significant impact on the local economy, as their bakery was not only a source of Cuban pastries but also an important employer for the community.

The loss of over 30 jobs created a ripple effect in Little River, affecting not only Grupo Sur's direct employees but also their families. Customers who relied on the bakery were left without their favorite goods, and the absence of Grupo Sur left a gap that neighboring businesses struggled to fill.

Their lawsuit alleges that LRMF Owner LLC engaged in "a conspiracy to unlawfully evict" Grupo Sur through the "weaponization" of the county’s 40-year recertification process. They claim the landlord had ulterior motives to push them out and redevelop the property for a more lucrative venture.

However, Grupo Sur's founders are determined to continue the fight to restore their American dream and set a positive example for others. They believe that by standing firm, they can shine a light on unjust business practices and protect other local businesses from falling victim to similar tactics.

Their determination to revive Grupo Sur remains unwavering. Despite the legal hurdles and financial losses, Molina and Ortiz de la Renta are actively exploring new ways to bring their Cuban pastries back to Little River, embodying resilience, hope, and the unwavering spirit that makes small businesses so vital to communities across the nation.