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Georgia Center of Innovation Hosts 2022 Logistics Summit in Macon, Georgia

March 17, 2022
Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Newsroom

MACON, Ga. – March 18, 2022 – The Georgia Center of Innovation, a strategic arm of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), hosted hundreds of attendees at the March 16 Georgia Logistics Summit, where experts offered insights on the digitalization of the logistics industry and on harnessing needed talent. Created in 2009 to bring together all aspects of the logistics industry, the Georgia Logistics Summit has grown to become one of the Southeast’s most important logistics and supply chain-centered events.

The total sales (output) impact of Georgia’s logistics industries jumped to $83.4 billion in 2021, equaling approximately 7% of the state’s total sales, an increase from $60.7 billion (or 6%) in 2018. Georgia also outpaced the nation in warehousing services growth at 92.8% growth since 2018. In 2018, one out of every 14 Georgia jobs owed its existence to logistics; today, that number has grown to one in every nine Georgia jobs.

“Thanks to long-term investments, Georgia’s logistics networks have become a gateway to the entire United States. In many cases, one of the first questions companies ask about is connectivity. The connectivity and speed-to-market service Georgia provides has led to record-breaking economic investment and trade, year after year – even during a global pandemic,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “We were proud to host a sold-out program of hundreds of industry practitioners from business, government, and education, who gathered in Macon to discuss best practices, learn from the experts, and determine new and innovative ways to continue to adapt and position Georgia and their businesses for success in a rapidly changing world.”

Two featured panels highlighted the Summit: “Inside the Mind – Awakening Your Talent Search,” and a keynote panel, “A Vision for Supply Chain Digitalization in 2030.” Panelists, business leaders from Amazon, RaceTrac, Blue Bird Corporation, and Accenture shared their experience on how technology is shaping logistics and fulfilment operations and the benefits and risks for companies and regions. The role of data and analytics in supply chain transformation was explored, with information about the ways companies are approaching the changes needed to get their supply chains future-proof.

In working with increased digitalization, panelists reminded guests that digitalization offers tools, but logistics remains a “people business.” Redundancy of operations as part of the planning process was stressed, as this aspect of connectivity came into clear focus as a key need for supply chain resiliency as the COVID-19 pandemic continued. Panelists noted that digitalization is being increasingly utilized for data harvesting and demand signaling, and companies are focusing more on vertical integration through leading-edge technology and automation to streamline logistics sequences through the supply chain. While it was noted that 50% of existing repetitive tasks can be automated through existing technology, it was also noted that companies need to take opportunities to better leverage the creativity, decision making, problem-solving, and leadership skills that people bring to the organization.

A representative from Amazon also focused on the speed of delivery and using resources responsibly. Sean Holloway, General Manager, Sav 3, at Amazon in Macon, highlighted indications such as their electric delivery van fleet order with American startup Rivian to accommodate increasing demand for their “last mile” deliveries. “You’re going to see companies more focused on being good stewards… and green technology,” moving into the future, said Holloway.

This year’s Summit also featured Macon Mayor Lester Miller and Irving Consumer Products, who highlighted the host city of Macon and the factors that have made it a prime community for logistics success.

Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Planning Director Jannine Miller provided updates on strategic investments to maintain and improve Georgia’s top-ranked interstate highway system and the state’s roads and bridges. She provided a briefing on GDOT’s strategic investments in local projects throughout the state to help trucks move more efficiently throughout the community and roadways, with less disturbance in addition to providing updates on long-term projects, such as the I-75/I-16 Interchange in Macon.

“Digitalization continues to change how business is done and life is experienced. This is why the Center of Innovation and our logistics team fill a critical need for Georgia businesses,” said Center of Innovation Executive Director David Nuckolls. “Through events like our annual Georgia Logistics Summit we continue to showcase industry best practices and bring the industry together to make Georgia’s logistics industry more competitive.”

Educating the needed workforce was the focus of the event’s first panel, with representatives from secondary and higher education, along with the Technical College System of Georgia and taking a proactive approach to aligning education with industry needs was a major focus. In Georgia, new career pathways in industry sectors including warehousing and distribution are preparing students for direct entry into the industry upon graduation, and in some cases while still in school. Additionally, the availability and skill of Georgia’s large population of veterans was discussed, including the opportunities available through the Georgia Veterans Education Career Resource, or VECTR Center. The VECTR Center provides unique, accelerated programs in high demand and strategic industries tailored to abbreviate the process of receiving post-secondary certificates and degrees by recognizing the extensive training veterans receive during their military service. Panelists also focused on the importance of developing students’ core skills, creating future leaders, and developing partnerships with local schools and local industrial and economic development authorities, fostering conversations between industry and educators as key to results.

Home to 85% of third-party logistics companies, Georgia is ranked No. 1 for infrastructure and access to global markets by Area Development. The state is also home to the busiest and most efficient airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, and the fastest-growing seaport in the U.S. at the Port of Savannah. In addition, Georgia offers a robust rail and highway infrastructure, with more rail miles than any other state in the Southeast at 5,000 miles of rail, and 1,200 miles of interstate highways, including I-75, I-85, I-95, and I-20, and 20,000 miles of federal and state highways. Many of the world’s leading logistics companies have operations or headquarters in Georgia including Amazon, The Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines, The Home Depot, Norfolk Southern, and UPS.

For additional information on the 2022 Georgia Logistics Summit and to stay up-to-date on next year’s plans, visit www.galogisticssummit.com.

About the Georgia Center of Innovation

Exclusive to Georgia, the Center of Innovation helps Georgia businesses clear the path to innovation and growth through expert advice and navigation to the right resources. While providing a wide range of services and programs to businesses of all types and sizes, the Center connects new and expanding businesses to expert staff members, external partners, and independent mentors who can help spark inspired solutions for challenges and opportunities of any size. The Center of Innovation is a strategic arm of the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

About GDEcD

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) is the state’s sales and marketing arm, the lead agency for attracting new business investment, encouraging the expansion of existing industry and small businesses, locating new markets for Georgia products, attracting tourists to Georgia, and promoting the state as a destination for arts and location for film, music, and digital entertainment projects, as well as planning and mobilizing state resources for economic development. Visit www.georgia.org for more information.

Media Contact:
Marie Gordon
404-962-4075
Communications Director

Original release here: https://www.georgia.org/center-of-innovation/logistics-1/georgia-center-innovation-hosts-2022-logistics-summit-macon-georgia 

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Oct 10 | Gov. Kemp: Audi AG Selects Georgia to Invest $4 Billion in First US Manufacturing Facility

 

ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp and Gernot Döllner, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, announced that Audi will open its first U.S. manufacturing facility in the State of Georgia. Headquartered in Ingolstadt, Germany, Audi plans to invest approximately $4 billion in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at the Middle Georgia Megasite, delivering approximately 4,500 new jobs to middle Georgia.

“We are proud that Audi has selected Georgia as the home of their first U.S. manufacturing facility, delivering truly historic investment and jobs to middle Georgia,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Following the success we've enjoyed with other megasites, we purchased and made more improvements to the Middle Georgia Megasite for just this purpose: to bring a job-creating, high-caliber automotive manufacturer to this region. I want to thank the countless professionals from Peach, Macon-Bibb, and Houston counties in the Mid-Georgia Gateway JDA who helped make this happen. We are excited for hardworking Georgians in Peach County and the entire middle Georgia region to benefit from this project for decades to come. On behalf of the State of Georgia, we are honored to welcome Audi to our state!” 

“We have much greater ambitions for Audi in America, and Georgia will play a central role in making them a reality. With its strong business environment, skilled workforce, and shared ambition, the state is an ideal partner for Audi,” said CEO Döllner. “We are proud to bring our engineering excellence and pioneering spirit to Georgia. Together, we want to create something that goes far beyond a manufacturing plant: a new home for Audi in America, opportunities for thousands of people and a strong foundation for long-term growth. This investment will bring us closer to our customers and strengthen Audi's competitiveness around the world.”

With cutting-edge premium SUVs tailored to North American customers and manufactured locally, Audi aims to unlock significant growth potential in one of the world's most important premium markets. Audi expects to begin grading in 2027 and construction on the new facility in 2028. Full production is expected in 2031 at an annual capacity of 200,000 units.

The facility will be designed around Audi’s future manufacturing requirements, with a focus on efficiency, flexibility, and the ability to respond to evolving customer needs and market demand.

The company is known for its sporty vehicles, progressive design, high build quality, and the slogan “Vorsprung durch Technik” (Progress through Technology). The Audi Group also includes the brands Bentley, Lamborghini, and Ducati.

“We invest in our workforce programs to create opportunities for Georgians,” said Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. “Governor Kemp’s leadership has positioned Georgia as the home for world-class companies. Congratulations to Peach, Houston, and Macon-Bibb counties for the future they are building together. Projects like these help small businesses, school systems, and local governments provide more services to local residents, and we look forward to seeing them working within their communities to capitalize on this opportunity.” 

“Georgia has a strong commitment to managing our resources wisely and planning responsibly for the future as we work to bring good-paying jobs and economic opportunity to rural communities across our state,” said Speaker Jon Burns. “I applaud Peach, Houston, and Macon-Bibb counties for upholding that commitment and working together to lay the foundation for future generations of Georgians to build careers, raise their families, and succeed in the communities they call home.”

In choosing Georgia, Audi cited speed-to-market, workforce, access to consumer markets, and proximity to an established automotive supply chain.

Developed and marketed by the Development Authority of Peach County in partnership with the Mid-Georgia Gateway JDA, comprised of Houston, Macon-Bibb, and Peach counties, over the last several years alongside the state, the Middle Georgia Megasite offers the speed-to-market requirements for Audi AG’s goals. Industrial utilities are adjacent to the site, and extensive due diligence reports have been completed, enabling the company to construct its brand-new facility on a rapid timeline.

“The decision by Audi realizes the vision we had for the Middle Georgia Megasite – an innovative, global automotive OEM that will position the region as a premier hub for innovation and industry,” said Roy Lewis, Chairman of the Mid-Georgia Gateway JDA and the Peach County Board of Commissioners. “When we formed the Mid-Georgia Gateway JDA, we set out to build a more resilient regional economy and secure major projects that will benefit our families and our workforce for decades. We are excited to continue conversations with Audi, the State of Georgia, and countless regional and state partners to build out programs that will prepare Georgians for the high-skill jobs of the future.” 

Georgia Quick Start will work with Audi to develop a customized training curricula and design a designated training facility. It will also partner with local campuses in the Technical College System of Georgia to begin employee instruction on tailored curriculum as the training facility is constructed. Competitive wages for all roles will be well-paying in the local market.

The Middle Georgia Megasite is well-positioned for connectivity to domestic and international markets. Both the Port of Savannah and the Port of Brunswick can easily be reached by rail in less than 5 hours. The site has access to Norfolk Southern Class I rail.  The busiest and most efficient passenger airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is a 90-minute drive, and two regional airports are within 25 minutes of the Middle Georgia Megasite.

“We are excited to welcome Audi as a neighbor,” said Mark Sanchez, CEO of Southern Orchard Management. “We are so proud to work with Peach County, the Mid-Georgia Gateway JDA, and the State of Georgia on the Middle Georgia Megasite, because it has given us an opportunity to be part of a historic moment for the very community that has supported our own growth and success over the years. We hope that in the future, when people think of Audi, they think of Georgia peaches, too!” 

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) was represented by Global Commerce Assistant Director Virginia Sengewald; in partnership with the Mid-Georgia Gateway JDA, which includes Houston, Macon-Bibb, and Peach counties; the Technical College System of Georgia; Georgia Quick Start; University System of Georgia; Georgia Department of Transportation; Georgia Ports Authority; Georgia Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources; Norfolk Southern; Georgia’s Germany-based Europe Office; and Georgia Power.

“Audi’s decision to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Georgia is a historic milestone for our state and a transformational opportunity for Middle Georgia,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Georgia’s success is built on long-term investments, trusted international relationships, and partnerships that bring communities together around a shared vision for the future. The relationships we began building decades ago, combined with the work our state and local partners have done to prepare this site, have positioned the region to compete for a project of this scale. Ultimately, this is why we do what we do, particularly in rural communities. Economic development is about more than the jobs and investment announced today. It is about strengthening communities, creating opportunities for families, and ensuring that future generations can build their lives and their futures close to home. We look forward to building a lasting partnership with Audi and the communities of Middle Georgia.”

About Audi AG

Audi combines premium mobility with technological progress and pioneering design. For more than five decades, “Vorsprung durch Technik” has embodied Audi’s technological ambitions. Audi offers a broad portfolio of premium vehicles for different customer needs and regional requirements. The Audi Group operates in more than 110 markets, manufactures vehicles at 21 production sites in twelve countries, and employs more than 88,000 people worldwide. The brand’s history dates back to 1909. Since 2026, Audi has also competed in Formula 1 with its factory team. In addition to the Audi brand, the Audi Group includes the sports-car manufacturer Lamborghini, the luxury brand Bentley, and the motorcycle manufacturer Ducati. Find out more about the Audi Group here.

About the Mid-Georgia Gateway JDA

The Mid-Georgia Gateway Joint Development Authority (MGGJDA) is a unified regional partnership between Peach, Houston, and Macon-Bibb counties. By combining strategic resources and workforce pipelines, MGGJDA offers a seamless, comprehensive solution for major industrial prospects. MGGJDA’s primary mission is the collaborative development and marketing of the Middle Georgia Megasite located in Peach County. Through this three-county partnership, incoming businesses receive dedicated support from site acquisition to long-term workforce recruitment. For inquiries and more information, please visit mggjda.com.

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Oct 10 | Blue Bird Invests $300 Million in Peach County

 

ATLANTA – October 21, 2026 – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Blue Bird Corporation (Blue Bird), a technology leader and innovator of school buses, is expanding its existing footprint in Peach County. The company plans to invest an estimated $300 million in a new manufacturing facility in Fort Valley, creating 375 new jobs over the next three years.

“For nearly 100 years, Blue Bird has been an incredible part of Georgia’s story, and now that story will continue to be written for years to come,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “We are proud when our long-time partners can grow and adapt to changing markets right here in the Peach State, and this expansion is the latest example that our pro-business environment is fostering sustained success for our business partners. I want to congratulate Blue Bird, Fort Valley, and Peach County on this announcement and their continued prosperity.”

Blue Bird school buses are available in a wide range of options and configurations to meet the diverse needs of school districts worldwide. The company has set industry standards through innovative design, engineering excellence, and advanced manufacturing capabilities, and currently supports more than 1,900 employees in Georgia.

“Georgia is where Blue Bird was born, and it has been our home for nearly 100 years. Every bus that rolls out of our plant carries the pride of the people across Middle Georgia who build it,” said John Wyskiel, President and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation. “Our new facility in Fort Valley is our way of investing back into the community where we will continue to build more of the safe, dependable buses that school districts rely on, so we can keep getting children to school safely for the next hundred years.”

Blue Bird will convert a former manufacturing site for diesel-powered motorhomes at 401 Wanderlodge Way in Fort Valley into a new facility to build buses of all powertrains. The new, 1-million-square-foot manufacturing facility will produce Type C school buses, including diesel, gasoline, propane, and electric-powered models. Construction is expected to begin in Q1 2027. The company will be hiring for manufacturing, operations, and technician roles. To learn more about Blue Bird, including where interested individuals can apply for jobs, visit www.blue-bird.com/careers.

“For generations, Fort Valley has helped Blue Bird move America forward. Today, Blue Bird is helping Fort Valley move toward a new century of possibilities,” said Fort Valley Mayor Shakeena B. Reeves. “May the next 100 years be defined not only by the buses we manufacture, but by the families we strengthen, the opportunities we create, and the future we build together.”

“Peach County is proud to be home to Blue Bird, and this massive $300 million expansion and creation of 375 new jobs is a monumental win for our entire community,” said Commissioner Roy Lewis, Peach County Board of Commissioners. “This investment underscores the strength of our local workforce and our collaborative partnership with state and local leaders. We look forward to seeing Blue Bird continue to thrive right here in Fort Valley.”

Regional Project Manager Candice Scott represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the Development Authority of Peach County and Georgia Quick Start.

“Since 1927, Blue Bird has been one of Georgia’s longest-standing automotive manufacturers, evolving with the industry while continuing to grow in Fort Valley and Middle Georgia,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “For nearly 100 years, families across America have placed their trust in Blue Bird every school day, entrusting these buses to safely carry their children to and from school. It’s remarkable to see that legacy continuing to create jobs and opportunity in a rural Georgia community, and to see Blue Bird continuing to invest and grow in the place it has called home for generations. Congratulations to Blue Bird on its upcoming centennial and to our local partners in Fort Valley and Peach County who have helped make this remarkable legacy possible.”

About Blue Bird Corporation

Blue Bird is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Their dedicated team members design, engineer, and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is a proven leader in low-and-zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric-powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird’s complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.

 

 

 

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Call: (478) 825-3826 or peachcountydevelopment@ymail.com425 James E. Khoury DriveUnit BFort Valley, Georgia 31030