B2B Stories

Simon Says: More jobs, but are they the right kind to grow the LMI?

The employment level in the Augusta Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) rose for the fourth consecutive month in July. It now stands at 244,700, up from 241,600 in March. However, it continues to remain below pre-pandemic levels. The unemployment rate has inched up this year from 3.5% in January to 3.8% in July. The rise in unemployment coupled with a rise in employment can be explained by an increase in the labor force. The labor force has increased for six consecutive months, adding over 2,400 workers or potential workers to the

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B2B Stories

Team building and project management in the virtual age

A man with 25 years of experience helping companies manage cyber security, data technology, and associated disciplines was the featured speaker at the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce’s Member Economic Luncheon on September 12. Cory Ruth is the Global CEO of Mergence Global, a management consulting firm. He was also a member of the Georgia Technology Authority, collaborating on the creation of the Georgia Cyber Center. Ruth said in the 1990’s, at the behest of his then-supervisor, he enrolled in a series of courses to learn about project management. It

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B2B Podcasting

CSRA experts introduce new business

Two familiar local business advisors have joined together to create a new company. Their goal is to help area businesses climb the mountain to success.

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Consumer Stories

Supermarket phenom launches new concept in old store

When 28-year-old, Jackson Mitchell, CEO of Jackson Mitchell Holdings, sets his mind to a project, he goes big—even though he knows he can always go home. The 4th generation member of the Alabama-based Mitchell grocery empire currently operates five Little Giant Farmers Market locations in the Atlanta area. His grocery company was named Clayton County Business of the Year. The supermarket phenom chose Augusta to be the flagship store of his “Fresh Take” concept to re-imagine the traditional grocery experience, while creating 130 jobs for Augusta locals around the summer of 2024. He’ll be

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B2B Stories

Mondays with Rick: Financial wellness education impacts employee performance

Dr. Rick Franza, Professor of Management at the Hull College of Business, discusses a different, timely business topic each Monday in this column. This week, he talks about the importance of financial wellness for employees and employers. The interview has been edited for clarity and impact. ABD: A number of CSRA businesses have begun offering financial wellness classes for their employees. How do you define financial wellness? Rick: Let’s start with financial literacy. In order to be financially well, you need to be financially literate, and that’s part of the

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B2B Podcasting

See you at the movies…or maybe in them!

Georgia celebrates 50 years of filming and billions in investments. Locally, Augusta is also lighting up the silver screen. Mike Petchenik has more in today’s Biz Bits.

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Closings

CSRA restaurant closes for now

Editor’s note: As ABD reported last week, more than 25 restaurants have closed in the past year. It’s a tough business and the reasons vary for shutting the doors. Some had been opened for a year or two, and others like Villa Europa have been serving customers for 50 years. As we reported, they will close but are looking for a new location. There is now yet another restaurant scouting for a new place to call home. Munchie’s Lab served their last meal on Friday, September 15. Their closing date

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B2B Stories

Projects abound in North Augusta

Members of the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce heard updates ranging from the new public safety headquarters under construction to infrastructure projects on September 14. City Administrator, Jim Clifford was the guest speaker for the monthly “Good Morning, North Augusta” breakfast in the Palmetto Ballroom at the municipal building. Clifford began by running down a list of projects he believes make North Augusta attractive for residents and businesses. He pointed to the historic downtown and the “Live, Play Work” community that’s grown in Riverside Village. “We’re a very strong, growing

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B2B Stories

Unique food business launches in the CSRA

As someone who grew up in the food and beverage business, Tia Harville dreamed of opening a restaurant. Covid forced her to ditch that plan for another business that also runs in the family. “In 2014, my husband’s aunt and uncle, Cindy and Anthony Mask opened Town Square Olive Oil in Covington, Ga. The concept appealed to us because there is really nothing quite like it here and we thought it would be good for North Augusta,” Harville explained. She is correct. The businesses surrounding Town Square Olive Oil &

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B2B Podcasting

It’s an anniversary!

Not only is the local branch of a pet care company celebrating a milestone, but they’re exceeding the expectations of pet owners. Mike Petchenik tells us how in today’s edition of Biz Bits.

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