Business Pulse: Latest News (2024)

Georgia Tech announces 10th International Physical Internet Conference exploring logistics, supply chains and freight transportation USA May 29–31

The Georgia Institute of Technology announces the 10th International Physical Internet Conference (IPIC) which will take place from May 29-31 at the DeSoto Hotel in Savannah, GA, USA. Registration is now open for this event which is designed to innovate the future of logistics, supply chains, and freight transportation. This year’s conference will focus on the latest breakthroughs and solutions that are shaping the future of global freight, logistics, and supply chains towards higher efficiency, resilience and sustainability. This premier event promises to bring together the brightest minds in industry and academia to discuss pioneering research, innovation and applications in supply chain, logistics and freight transportation.

IPIC 2024 will provide a unique platform for practitioners, industry experts, government officials, researchers and stakeholders to come together to discuss, explore and introduce innovative concepts and technologies for the Physical Internet. The conference aims to foster an open exchange of ideas that will drive future advancements and sustainable development within the logistics sector. The Physical Internet is an innovative concept that envisions a global logistics network modeled after the digital internet, where standardized modular containers carry goods through a shared system, optimizing routes and resources. This approach promotes efficiency and sustainability by allowing seamless transfer of goods across various transportation modes, reducing waste and energy use, and improving the overall flow of physical goods in a manner similar to how data packets travel across the internet.

“More intermodality is well known to be better for sustainability with less greenhouse gas emission and less energy consumption potential within and across continents, yet convenience, velocity and agility issues are blocking it from climbing from its low share of freight transportation,” said Dr. Benoit Montreuil, Professor in Industrial and Systems Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology. “The Physical Internet offers pathways by breaking current paradigms and opening degrees of freedom. We are so glad to host, at IPIC 2024, top, well-grounded industry leaders to discuss current challenges and progress and assess the Physical Internet potential using the US Southeast as a testbed.”

Industry leaders and visionaries will share their insights and experiences at the conference, sparking discussions that are pivotal for advancing the Physical Internet. One of the keynote sessions titled Intermodal Regional Freight Systems: Challenges, Vision and Roadmap Toward Physical Internet Enabled Efficiency, Seamlessness, Sustainability and Resilience led by Bill Loftis and includes Michael O. Miller, CEO of Genesee & Wyoming North America; Josh Raglin, Chief Sustainability Officer at Norfolk Southern; Tom Marss, General Manager of Intermodal Operations at Georgia Ports Authority, Michelle Livingston, Consultant and Retired VP of Transportation at The Home Depot, and Marty Schlenker, Head of Strategy at Parallel Systems will focus on progress and challenges in increasing the share of intermodal transportation within regional freight systems.

Todd Ullom, Vice President at MiTek Inc., and Professor George Q. Huang from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) will lead a session where they will unveil new insights into smart, modular, and integrated construction techniques that are being enhanced by the principles of the Physical Internet. Keynote sessions are designed to not only share knowledge but also to inspire attendees to explore how the Physical Internet can be implemented in their own fields to drive innovation and efficiency.

For more information visit pi.events/IPIC2024 and to register visit bit.ly/3UsTlkt.

Metropolitan Savannah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce presents third Women In Business Conference (WIBC)

The Women in Business Conference (WIBC) is excited to introduce a fresh and innovative approach to empower and support female entrepreneurs. Building on past successes, this year's conference will spotlight the unique cultural aspects that play a pivotal role in the development, operation, and success of women entrepreneurs in non-traditional cultural environments. This may sometimes lead to a clash with their own culture, traditions, and ethnicity.

Our decision to adopt this new approach stems from a deep understanding of the importance of family support and cultural heritage in the journey of many female entrepreneurs. In many non-traditional cultures, family plays a central role in providing not just emotional support but also practical assistance and guidance. This support network extends beyond the immediate family to include extended family members, friends, and community members who share common cultural values and experiences.

By highlighting the importance of family support and cultural heritage, we aim to provide attendees with a holistic understanding of entrepreneurship that goes beyond the traditional mainstream individualistic approach. We believe that by acknowledging and celebrating the cultural diversity and richness of our attendees, we can create a more inclusive and empowering conference experience.

The conference will feature a diverse lineup of speakers who will share their insights, expertise, and personal stories of triumph. Attendees can expect a mix of practical advice, inspirational talks, and networking opportunities designed to help them navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship while honoring their cultural or ethnic heritage.

TMGOC Ventures announces registration open for Ritz-Carlton Residences Savannah with exclusive sales representation by Corcoran Austin Hill Realty

TMGOC Ventures is excited to announce that registration for their newest development, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Savannah, is now open with exclusive sales representation by Corcoran Austin Hill Realty. The downtown Savannah project, which was announced in October of 2023, will include both luxury hotel rooms and branded residences.

“This project is a true gem, seamlessly blending Savannah’s historical charm with the top-tier luxury standard of the Ritz-Carlton brand,” said Sunju Patel, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of TMGOC Ventures. “Through our meticulous approach, we have united industry-leading architects, engineers, sales professionals, and interior designers to deliver an unprecedented residential offering within the Savannah market.”

Facing Johnson Square and iconic Bull Street in Savannah’s Landmark Historic District, the new Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Residences and Wellness will span three existing structures. While the interiors of these buildings will be completely reimagined and reconstructed with every detail taken into the highest consideration, the exteriors of the buildings, particularly the 15 Floor marble-clad former Savannah Bank and Trust building, will maintain its iconic and detailed facade. This distinct location provides ease of access for both Owners and guests to Savannah’s expansive downtown, scenic riverfront, and world-class dining and shopping districts.

“Branded residences are not just thriving in today’s market; they are redefining what is considered the highest caliber of luxury residential real estate,” said Glenn Alba, Co-Founder and Managing Partner for TMGOC Ventures. “We are excited to be at the forefront of Savannah’s flourishing luxury market, bringing one of the most premier residential offerings to the marketplace.”

Ultimately, the project will include 20 residences co-located with the hotel. Corcoran Austin Hill Realty, owned and led by Austin Hill and Stephanie Wilson-Evans, will exclusively oversee sales for the residences. As part of the amenity suite within the new development, residents and guests will be granted access to a curated lobby bar and cafe, expansive meeting and event spaces, speakeasy lounge, rooftop pool with lounge and terrace, first-class spa, 24/7 fitness and wellness center, valet parking, as well as a dedicated concierge.

“We couldn’t be more excited to work alongside the TMGOC Ventures team and bring these exclusive Ritz-Carlton residences to the market,” said The Rowan Stallings Group of Corcoran Austin Hill Realty. “Savannah’s vibrant community and historic beauty has continued to grow in popularity among high-net-worth consumers over the past few years, and the introduction of these luxury contemporary residences is perfectly timed to match the market’s demand.”

Inquiries for initial information for the residential residences, will be available upon request through Corcoran Austin Hill Realty, as well as through the project’s designated website, theresidencessavannah.com.

A dedicated boutique sales gallery for The Ritz-Carlton Residences Savannah will open soon at Corcoran Austin Hill’s nearby downtown Savannah office, located at 251 Bull Street. Additional details regarding the project’s official sales launch, reservation process, specific amenity suite, and interior design details will also be released in the coming months.

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Savannah are not owned, developed or sold by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. or its affiliates (“Ritz-Carlton”). TMGOC SAV 2 Bryan LLC uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein.

VyStar recognized as a 2024 Healthiest Companies Platinum Award Winner by First Coast Worksite Wellness Council

VyStar Credit Union has been recognized by the First Coast Worksite Wellness Council (FCWWC) as a 2024 Healthiest Companies Platinum Award Winner. The Healthiest Companies Award recognizes organizations that support employees' health and wellbeing through best-in-class wellness programs. Award winners were recognized during the 16th Annual First Coast Worksite Wellness Conference held in Jacksonville, Florida on May 8. VyStar’s Benefits team has been a proud recipient of this prestigious award for the 5th consecutive year.

“VyStar is incredibly honored to be recognized as a Platinum Level Healthiest Company,” said VyStar Chief Human Resources Officer Kawanza Humphrey. “The award reflects our belief that the most valuable thing we have is our personal health and wellness. We know that happy and healthy employees are crucial to the important work we do every day – in serving our members, our communities, our families and each other, which is why we’ve put such a focus on further cultivating our wellness culture, providing tools to help our employees take care of themselves as a whole person – mind, body and soul.”

VyStar was recognized as a ‘Platinum Level’ company for offering the best-in-class wellness programs and creating a culture of health and well-being throughout the organization. VyStar’s leadership supports and invests in necessary resources to strategically design, implement and measure programs that show improvement in the health and well-being of its employees. Platinum award winners bolster total well-being by demonstrating robust programming and supporting multiple pillars of well-being that include physical, mental/emotion, social, career and financial.

Empowering VyStar employees to live out our shared values is one of many reasons the credit union was previously recognized for the fourth time as a “Best Place to Work” in 2023, by the Jacksonville Business Journal and as a “Company with Heart” in 2024, by Jacksonville Magazine.

To learn more about a career at VyStar, please visit vystarcu.org/careers.

VyStar Credit Union receives grant from U.S. Department of Treasury to launch innovative credit-builder program

The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has awarded VyStar Credit Union a grant of $383,223 through its Small Dollar Loan Program (SDL Program). This funding aims to empower Certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) like VyStar to enhance consumer access to fair financial services and offer viable alternatives to high-interest small dollar loans.

In response to the detrimental impacts of payday loans in Florida, with Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) soaring up to 300%, VyStar proactively created a solution aimed at curbing the adverse effects of these high-cost loans. The SDL Program Award will fund the launch of VyStar’s innovative Credit-Builder Loan program, specifically designed to provide members with a fair and affordable alternative to high-cost credit options, promoting financial stability and inclusion.

“These important awards enable more Certified CDFIs to offer alternatives to costly payday lenders. Notably, 32% of all award funds went to Certified CDFIs headquartered in persistent poverty counties, exceeding the statutory requirement by over threefold,” said CDFI Fund Director Pravina Raghavan. “With a quarter of unbanked or underbanked American households, our program aims to broaden access to affordable financial products and services. These awards significantly boost access to small dollar loans in underserved communities.”

The newly launched Credit-Builder Loan is a short-term loan to help members build repayment history and increase their credit score. It was created to help members with limited financial resources meet their immediate financial needs while simultaneously encouraging them to save money. The Credit-Builder Loan also provides access to VyStar’s integrated Financial Fitness platform which includes financial education resources, free credit counseling and personalized goal setting technology.

“The VyStar Impact Lending Team is excited to have the Credit-Builder Loan in our toolkit,” said VyStar SVP, Impact Lending Heather Horovitz. “We have members who want to achieve the dream of home ownership come to us looking for ways to consolidate debt or build up their credit score. Our goal is to equip them with the tools necessary for long-term financial health.”

Launched in fiscal year (FY) 2021, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s CDFI Fund has provided more than $40.2 million in SDL Program awards to CDFIs through the combined FY 2023 and FY 2024. The 66 award recipients are headquartered in 25 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

To learn more about qualifying for a Credit-Builder Loan or VyStar’s Financial Fitness resources go to vystarcu.org/impact-lending]vystarcu.org/impact-lending or visit a VyStar branch.

Bealls Home opens in Savannah

Bealls Inc. regional and store management, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, local leaders and the community recently celebrated the opening of a new bealls-Home Centric store with ribbon cutting ceremony, tours, giveaways, and family activities. The new 31,000 sq. ft. store is in Savannah Center at 7400 Abercorn St, Suite 401. The Savannah location represents the 44th store in Georgia under Bealls Inc.

The combo bealls-Home Centric store includes brand name apparel and products for the home in one location. bealls will feature an extensive selection of fashion apparel, footwear, and accessories for the family in special apparel sizes including women’s plus, petites, juniors’ plus, men’s big & tall and wide-width shoes. For the home decorator and designer, Home Centric offer high-quality home merchandise, housewares, and gifts from around the world. Both bealls and Home Centric will have new merchandise arriving weekly.

Carroll Daniel Construction opens Savannah office

Carroll Daniel Construction Company is expanding, opening a new office location in Savannah, Georgia. Vice President and Division Manager Alan Schuetze will lead the new office and represent Carroll Daniel in Savannah and on the Georgia Coast.

As Southeast Georgia and its coastal communities continue to grow, Carroll Daniel is focused on partnering with businesses and community leaders to build for the future. The firm’s Savannah location will focus on both private and public projects, with a concentration on manufacturing and infrastructure as they support a growing client base in the region.

“Establishing a permanent presence in Savannah is a natural next step for our business as we continue to expand our footprint to better serve our clients base” says Brian Daniel, President and CEO of Carroll Daniel Construction Company. “Savannah is a major driver of economic development and business growth in Georgia and beyond, and certainly a significant focus for Carroll Daniel. Savannah is familiar territory for us having worked in Southeast Georgia for many years.”

“Alan Schuetze is the perfect leader to expand our operations into Savannah” said Daniel. “He has trusted business relationships across the Southeast and is well respected in the industry.” Alan brings 15 years of experience with Carroll Daniel, managing construction operations and business development in Georgia and the Carolinas in previous roles.

“Savannah and Southeast Georgia represent great opportunities for growth for Carroll Daniel and our team of construction professionals here,” says Alan Schuetze, Vice President and Division Manager at Carroll Daniel Construction. “We are excited to build off of the momentum we have in the area and look forward to being able to better serve our clients and partners across this market.”

Carroll Daniel’s work stretches across the southeast, including notable projects for several private and public companies in Georgia – most recently Georgia Ports Authority, Kubota Manufacturing of America, Delta Airlines, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Continental Tire, MARTA, and others. With the latest office opening in Savannah, Carroll Daniel now has six office locations across the Southeastern US. The Company’s growth is nationally recognized by Design-Build Institute of America, Associated General Contractors of America, and Construction Management Association of America. The firm consistently ranks as a Top 400 Contractor by Engineering News Record’s (ENR).

Dr. Pamela Gaudry joins Coastal Care Partners

Coastal Care Partners recently announced their partnership with Dr. Pamela Gaudry, an esteemed physician and surgeon who has been practicing in Savannah for over 27 years.

Prior to joining Coastal Care Partners, Dr. Gaudry owned her own practice for the past six years. Her previous practice aligned with the same mission as Coastal Care Partners, a membership-based format that provides patients with a personalized approach and an immediate response from their physician.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Gaudry join our practice,” said Amy Pierce, CEO of Coastal Care Partners. “Having a physician with her experience and expertise helps us deliver on our mission of building the best practice in Savannah, one that is easily accessible and truly a benefit for all of our members.”

An advocate of the medical community, Dr. Gaudry has been a member of the Georgia Medical Society, executive board of the Medical Association of Georgia, and in the inaugural class of the Georgia Physician Leadership Academy. In addition, she has lobbied health issues in Washington, D.C. and at the Georgia State Legislature.

A Savannah native, Dr. Gaudry is a graduate of the University of Georgia, summa cum laude, and completed her residency with the Medical College of Georgia. Dr. Gaudry’s longtime, trusted nurse practitioner Nicole Jackson will also be joining her at Coastal Care Partners.

For more information about Coastal Care Partners, please visit coastalcarepartners.com.

Stature Investments announces topping-off ceremony for "the Digby" boutique hotel in downtown Savannah

Stature Investments and Ideal Hospitality Investments, two leading real estate development and investment firms in the Southeast, celebrated a major milestone with the topping-off ceremony for the Digby, a highly anticipated six-story boutique hotel located at 200 W. Bryan St. The companies are co-owners of the project, with Stature handling development and construction and Ideal Hospitality managing the hotel and food and beverage operations.

The ceremony took place on Thursday, May 16 at 10 a.m., marking the placement of the final steel beam atop the structure, poised to become a vibrant centerpiece of the city's historic core as it is located on the last remaining vacant lot on Ellis Square in historic downtown Savannah, Ga.

The Digby will be part of the exclusive Unbound Collection by Hyatt, offering guests a unique blend of Old European culture, Savannah's local Southern charm and modern hotel design. The boutique hotel extends beyond its luxurious accommodations of 36 guest rooms, offering a basem*nt lounge, ground floor restaurant and a rooftop restaurant and bar. This mixed-use concept creates a dynamic destination within the hotel, attracting both guests and locals alike.

Inspired by the captivating story of the Digby family, whose name graces the original deed for the very plot the hotel occupies, J. Elder Studio, the hotel's design team, embarked on a collaborative journey with the Georgia Historical Society to delve deeper into records from the early 18th century. This meticulous research, combined with a touch of creative imagination, brought forth a compelling narrative: a seasoned traveler, his heart brimming with wanderlust, brings his collection of exquisite finds from around the world to his new Savannah home. This narrative forms the foundation for the Digby's unique aesthetic.

As part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, the Digby joins a portfolio of fewer than 45 independent, premium hotel properties, ranging from historic urban gems to contemporary trend-setters and boutique properties to resorts. Whether it is a fascinating past, an exclusive location, famous architecture and design, or an award-winning dining experience, each of the brand’s hotels has its own distinct narrative and creates novel, story-worthy experiences for guests. In markets from Barcelona to Budapest, guests can be inspired by hidden gems around the world. For a complete list of hotels in the collection, visit unboundcollection.hyatt.com.

The topping-off ceremony is steeped in tradition, dating back centuries to celebrate the successful completion of a building's structural framework. Representatives from Stature Investments, Pioneer Construction, Pantheon ADC, Coastal Civil Engineering, J. Elder Studio and Flourish Collaborative, as well as city officials, community leaders and other invited guests were in attendance.

"We are thrilled to reach this pivotal moment in the construction of the Digby," said Yash Desai, Principal at Stature Investments. "This building represents a unique opportunity to revitalize a significant corner of Savannah's downtown landscape and contribute to the city's ongoing cultural and economic vibrancy." Desai continued, “We believe this is the right property at the right time for Savannah. From the stylish spaces and luxurious accommodations hotel guests demand to the rooftop bar and this fantastic location right next to City Market in the heart of downtown, our expectations are sky-high.”

"The steel is up, and we're excited about the progress. It's moving along fairly quickly right now. We made some minor changes to enhance the project and give it what Savannah needs and what the leisure market is looking for in Savannah. We're going to bring Savannah into the building and the history behind the site so our guests get a sense of the origins and the name," said Mehul Patel, co-owner and Chief Operations Officer at Ideal Hospitality Investments.

With construction progressing on schedule, the Digby is slated to open its doors later this year. 

Grand opening of PedsNow: Premier pediatric emergency facility in Pooler

Local pediatric emergency office, PedsNow announces ribbon cutting ceremony to benefit Shelter from the Rain, a local nonprofit helping single mothers

PedsNow proudly announces the grand opening of its second location in Pooler, Georgia, expanding its premier pediatric emergency care services to the community. Specializing in unparalleled customer service, PedsNow is set to revolutionize pediatric emergency care in Pooler and its surrounding areas.

Following the success of its first location in Hinesville, Georgia, PedsNow continues its commitment to providing top-notch medical care for children. The expansion to Pooler underscores the growing demand for quality pediatric emergency services in the region.

The grand opening ceremony and ribbon-cutting event took place on Tuesday, May 14 from 5:30 to 7 pm at the new PedsNow facility located at 2321 Pooler Parkway, Suite 103.

Local dignitaries, community members, and esteemed guests joined in celebrating this milestone, enjoying light bites, desserts, business networking, tours of the brand-new facility, and photo opportunities with the doctors and staff.

In line with PedsNow's dedication to community welfare, the facility has partnered with local nonprofit organization, Shelter From the Rain. Guests are encouraged to contribute to the cause by bringing donations of baby wash and baby lotion, which will be distributed to families in need within the community.

"We are thrilled to bring PedsNow's exceptional pediatric emergency care services to Pooler," said Dr. Ajayi, co-owner at PedsNow. "Our team is committed to providing compassionate care and ensuring the well-being of every child who walks through our doors."

PedsNow Pooler boasts state-of-the-art facilities, experienced medical professionals, and a warm, welcoming environment designed to put children and their families at ease during stressful times.

For more information about PedsNow and its services, visit PedsNow Pediatric Urgent Care in Pooler.

Savannah small business leader recognized as 3C Congressional Champion

Elizabeth Raley of Elope to Savannah voiced her concerns about proposed legislation that could harm small businesses

Elizabeth Raley, owner of Savannah, GA-based Elope to Savannah, recently met with officials from Sen. Jon Ossoff’s (D-GA) office to explain the vital role digital tools play in her business. She also voiced concern about policy proposals that could hurt small businesses like hers by making such tools more expensive and less effective.

Raley’s visit, which coincided with National Small Business Week, reflected small business leaders’ desire that proposed laws governing data privacy and artificial intelligence (AI) not only provide consumer protections, but also allow small businesses to continue growing and thriving. New research shows that 63% of small business leaders believe AI tools help level the playing field for businesses of all sizes, and 47% identify data security as a top issue they think Congress should address.

“It was such an honor to meet with Sen. Ossoff’s staff and demonstrate how important digital tools are to running and growing my business,” said Raley. “I hope Congress understands my concerns and works hard to pass laws that give small business owners peace of mind, not sleepless nights.”

Raley was one of over twenty small business leaders who came to Washington from across the country to meet with representatives from dozens of U.S. Congressional offices.

“Small businesses are essential to the nation’s economy, so it’s extremely important that Congress understands their perspective and addresses their concerns,” said Rob Retzlaff, 3C Executive Director. “Elizabeth is a fantastic example of the millions of creative, resilient, hard-working American small business leaders out there. We commend her for her willingness to reach out to Congressional leaders, speak up on behalf of small businesses, and help ensure small business success.”

Crestlight Capital & GEM Realty Capital purchase Savannah portside industrial portfolio partnership acquires +2.3 Million SF in Savannah in past six months

Crestlight Capital, in partnership with GEM Realty Capital, recently announced the acquisition of Savannah Portside II, a Class A, newly constructed, state of the art, 1.2 million square foot distribution warehouse located 19 miles from the Port of Savannah, the fastest-growing and third-largest port in the nation. The partnership also acquired the adjacent Savannah Portside I building in September 2023. In total, the Savannah Portside Industrial Portfolio spans over 2.3 million square feet.

“Long term, we see tailwinds in the industrial sector and the burgeoning Savannah market. We are excited to partner with GEM Realty Capital to acquire our second asset together here. Over the past decade, the Savannah industrial market has witnessed an 84% increase in rents. With billions in continued infrastructure investment, we believe the Port is in the middle innings of growth as volume is expected to continue increasing,” stated John Coury, Managing Partner of Crestlight.

The two buildings in the portfolio, located at 201 and 301 Savannah Portside International Parkway in Bloomingdale, are 100% occupied by two tenants. Crestlight and GEM have retained CBRE to manage and lease the buildings.