Greater Worcester

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers has fired the latest salvo in the battle between a number of fast-casual chicken chains seeking a larger presence in Central Massachusetts.

Tobacco and nicotine products would eventually become banned in Massachusetts, under a regulatory trajectory that a trio of lawmakers hope will become law next session.

Plans call for the creation of five four-story buildings, alongside a parking deck and an open common area.

Boston Scientific is expanding its presence in cancer treatment as the Marlborough-based medical device manufacturer intends to acquire Intera Oncology, a Newton-based medical device company focused on interventional oncology therapy.

The legislative change, completed as part of the sweeping economic development bill signed by Gov. Maura Healey on Thursday, allows for direct-to-consumer sales for off-site consumption.

Bal plans to begin her new job on Dec. 9, her assignment coming as the state implements a nearly $4 billion economic development law.

While Asante was climbing the corporate ladder abroad, she decided to return home to her family in Worcester. Her goal has always been to use her legal acumen to benefit local business owners, especially immigrant entrepreneurs who defied the odds to build successful legacies.

Employees at Assumption University, Fidelity Bank, and Mirick O'Connell are advancing in their careers.

Local retailers are using their community connections to make their presence known this holiday season.

Worcester Business Journal has launched its annual survey of readers for the end-of-year Economic Forecast special edition, in order to gauge business leaders' outlooks on the Central Massachusetts community in the coming year.