In June, officials from Excela Health and Butler Health System announced an expected merger between the two health systems. Submitted Photo

Throughout 2022, Butler County saw a slew of new businesses, transitions at some long-standing businesses, the announcement of a health system merger and inflation galore.

Here are our top business and economy stories in 2022:

Hovis Truck Service’s main building in Emlenton, Venango County, was destroyed by a fire in early January 2022. Submitted by Katelyn Carr

Hovis Truck Services in Emlenton, Venango County, was hit with a major fire in early January.

Upon arrival, firefighters found the business’ main building, which includes several commercial truck bays, a retail area and offices, engulfed in flame. No one was inside the building and no one was injured.

The building was considered a total loss.

A February recall of some baby formula products made by Abbott Nutrition — which include Similac, Alimentum and EleCare baby formula — exacerbated worries during the earlier part of the baby formula shortage in May.