Press Releases
For Immediate Release
What’s happening at the Columbus Chamber and with our members? In this section you will find a complete catalog of our recent and archived press releases.
To arrange an interview with a member of the Columbus Chamber team, contact:
Michelle Bretscher, APR
Director, Marketing and Communication
W: 614.225.6941
C: 614.499.0889
michelle_bretscher@columbus.org
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Press Release
June 12, 2013
Franklin County, Columbus Chamber Release 2013 Franklin County Retail Report
Key report findings focus on sales tax revenue, real estate vacancy rates
Columbus, OH – Sales tax revenues are rebounding and retail vacancy rates continue to decrease, according to the 2013 Franklin County Retail Report unveiled today at the Franklin County Retail Summit. The annual event, featuring insight from industry experts, was hosted by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the Columbus Chamber. “Retail is the engine of our economy,” said John O’Grady, president of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners. “Franklin is the fastest growing county in the state, and has regained all of the jobs it lost during the recession, but many businesses have continued to struggle. We’re focusing today on ways to help new and current local retailers get a jump on the recovery.” The report provides a glimpse into Franklin County’s retail sector, which continues to recover. Retail-based sales tax revenues are a key indicator of the industry’s progress, gaining back six of the 10 percentage points lost from 2008 to 2009 – during the height of the recession. Retail vacancy rates also are at 10.2 percent as of the third quarter of 2012, down from a high of 13.2 percent in the second quarter of 2009. “We’re fortunate in Central Ohio to have a dynamic economy and resilient, financially-optimistic residents,” said County Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “The recession and the rise of online shopping have hurt local businesses, but we know that our innovative retailers have lots of ways to provide service and experience that you can’t get online. I’m very optimistic about the future of retail in Franklin County.” Jung Kim, the Columbus Chamber’s research director, included the following highlights in the 2013 Franklin County Retail Report:- From 2009 to 2011, Franklin County’s retail sales tax revenue rose 6.2 percent as it recovered from the recession. In 2012, revenue jumped another 8.6 percent compared to 2011, rising above pre-recession levels.
- The retail real estate vacancy rate in the Columbus market continues to decrease, down from a peak of 13.2 percent in the second quarter of 2009 to 10.1 percent in the fourth quarter of 2012.
- Showing growth from 2006 to 2012, top-performing retail categories include: clothing and accessories (23.5 percent); food and beverage (32.6 percent); gas stations (18.0 percent); and accommodation and food services (19.8 percent).
- With the growth of e-commerce, “retail” employment is shifting to the transportation/warehousing industry. Compared to the early 2000s, seasonal employment in retail is now half, while seasonal employment in transportation housing is now double.
- Franklin County boasts favorable demographics for retail, with proportionately higher shares of young families, couples and professionals compared to U.S. levels.
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About the Franklin County Board of Commissioners
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners has established the Economic Development and Planning Department to promote organized growth supported by the principles of environmental responsibility, progressive land use, planning, social equity and economic vitality. For more information on business development assistance in Franklin County please contact: the Department of Economic Development and Planning 150 South Front Street, FSL Suite 10, Columbus, Ohio, visit Development.FranklinCountyOhio.gov, call (614) 525.5631 or email edinfo@franklincountyohio.gov. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
June 03, 2013
Franklin County Board of Commissioners, Columbus Chamber Holding Retail Summit
June 12 event to feature industry experts, 2013 Franklin County Retail Report
Columbus, OH – The Franklin County Board of Commissioners, along with the Columbus Chamber, will hold the annual Franklin County Retail Summit Wednesday, June 12 at The Shops at Worthington Place. The breakfast event, which runs from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., will feature insight from industry experts and the reveal of the 2013 Franklin County Retail Report.
"Retailers are the backbone of our economy," said John O’Grady, president, Franklin County Board of Commissioners. "Franklin County is now the fastest growing county in Ohio and, as our region continues to improve at attracting and retaining the younger consumer demographic that has shown higher than average spending potential, it’s no longer enough to simply get consumers in the door - retailers now need unique tools to maximize a consumer’s in-store experience." In addition to having the opportunity to connect with other retailers, attendees can expect to:- Gain insights on the new Retail Incubator Supporting Entrepreneurs (RISE) program from Franklin County Board of Commissioners President John O’Grady, Marilyn Brown and Paula Brooks
- Be inspired by in-store marketing technology innovations and breakthrough consumer experiences from Matthew Santone, art director, ResourceLAB at Resource
- Discover how Robert Mason Grimmitt, founder/CEO of Robert Mason Co., is generating interest and building brand recognition using a pop-up shop during the development of a new store concept in Columbus
- Learn how to motivate consumers with store design trends from Chute Gerdeman’s Vice President of Brand & Consumer Strategy Mindi Trank and Vice President of Visual Strategy Bess Liscio
- Hear about the successful transformation of The Shops at Worthington Place from Tom Carter, president of Real Estate Development Advisors, LLC and Evergreen Strategic Ventures, LLC
- Review the 2013 Franklin County Retail Report with Columbus Chamber Research Director Jung Kim, encompassing everything from employment and tax statistics to the fastest growing retail hubs in the Columbus Region.
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners has established the Economic Development and Planning Department to promote organized growth supported by the principles of environmental responsibility, progressive land use, planning, social equity and economic vitality. For more information on business development assistance in Franklin County please contact: the Department of Economic Development and Planning 150 South Front Street, FSL Suite 10, Columbus, Ohio, visit Development.FranklinCountyOhio.gov, call (614) 525.5631 or email edinfo@franklincountyohio.gov. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
May 28, 2013
Columbus Chamber Hires Business Resource Advisor
New staffer responsible for advising members of vital resources for growth
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber hired Ron Tarsi as business resource advisor. Tarsi will assist the Chamber’s Member Resource Specialists in connecting Chamber members to business resources that will ensure success in the Columbus Region.
“Ron truly understands what a robust economic climate can add to the vitality of a community and we’re glad to have him on our team matching Columbus businesses to the solutions that will help them thrive,” said Shaun Frecska, vice president, membership services, Columbus Chamber. Tarsi has extensive experience as a chamber of commerce volunteer including having served as the Chairman of Chambers in Bloomington, Ind. and his hometown, Danbury, Conn. In addition to those roles, Tarsi has also served as Chairman, Economic Development Corporation in Bloomington and Board Member for the Metropolitan Development Association in Syracuse, N.Y. Prior to his community economic development service, Tarsi spent much of his career in the media space, operating radio and television stations, and continues to serve as a board member to several media companies in Tennessee and Virginia. About the Columbus Chamber The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
May 23, 2013
Columbus Chamber Board of Directors Passes Resolution in Favor of HB167
Vote affirms support for recommendations from Columbus Education Commission
Columbus, OH – The Board of Directors of the Columbus Chamber today passed a resolution supporting Ohio House Bill 167, which would enact three components of the comprehensive educational reform strategy proposed by the Columbus Education Commission.
Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman and City Council President Andrew Ginther formed the 25-member commission to thoroughly examine Columbus City Schools and develop holistic, community-wide recommendations for improving school and student performance. Acting on those recommendations, House Bill 167 would create a new position for an independent auditor to investigate Columbus City Schools operations; it would direct the district to share a portion of new levy proceeds with public charter schools; and it would give the City of Columbus the authority to sponsor public charter schools. “We applaud the Commission and the leadership of Mayor Coleman and Council President Ginther and strongly support House Bill 167,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “These challenges are not unique to Columbus, but the Commission’s recommendations will create a uniquely Columbus solution, with the kind of community-wide collaboration that has made our city what it is today.” The commission delivered its full report and recommendations April 30, and Ohio Representatives Cheryl L. Grossman and Tracy Maxwell Heard introduced House Bill 167 shortly thereafter. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
May 21, 2013
Columbus Chamber Hires New Talent Connections Manager
New staffer responsible for helping businesses attract, retain talented staff
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced the hiring of Dessa Augsburger as its new Talent Connections Manager. In the newly created position, Augsburger is responsible for helping businesses find, attract and retain talented staff and connect with workforce-related resources.
“Assisting members with workforce-related issues is a priority at the Chamber, and businesses need someone who understands their challenges and can serve as a connecting resource,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “We are pleased to welcome Dessa to our team and are sure her experience in the talent connections space will benefit our members as they navigate talent attraction and retention challenges.”
Working directly with the Chamber’s member-facing staff to identify needs, Augsburger will maintain an inventory of community resources, work with the Chamber’s research team to mine workforce-related information and get the information out to members. Augsburger also will also lead the Chamber’s internship effort via the ColumbusInternships.com website.
A graduate of The Ohio State University, Augsburger worked previously with Evesday Consulting LLC, contracting with educational and college access organizations to provide data, strategy/planning and project management support. She also held similar workforce-related positions with Ohio College Access Network and I Know I Can.
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
May 06, 2013
Targeted Logistics Survey Indicates Hiring, Customer Base Strong in Columbus Region
Survey coincides with Logistics Job Fair, set for May 14
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber recently surveyed its Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC) members, finding that 100 percent of the respondents plan to hire additional staff in 2013, with almost 40 percent expecting to add 50 or more positions this year. This positive news coincides with the CRLC’s semi-annual Logistics Job Fair, set for May 14.
“The steady hiring outlook from CRLC companies is a good indicator of the logistics industry’s continued growth in the Columbus Region,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Both seasoned logistics professionals and those seeking a career change benefit from the Logistics Job Fairs, which attract a large number of companies looking to connect with qualified candidates. This is an industry that offers a definitive path to growth.” Other key findings from the targeted survey included: - More than 45 percent of respondents cited the Columbus Region’s strong customer base as a key reason for their company’s growth. - In 2012, 90 percent of the respondents added staff. Thirty-eight percent of those added 50 or more positions. - Sixty percent of respondents identified the creation of additional job functions as the primary growth opportunity for logistics professionals over the next five years. Warehousing and materials handling were cited most frequently as hiring priorities over the next year, with business development and sales coming in a close second. “Logistics is thriving in the Columbus Region,” said Jeff Brashares, who chairs the Logistics Job Fair. “A strong need for the service these logistics businesses provide only increases our growth and need for a larger, more-skilled workforce. These job fairs are one way we connect with that talent pool.” The Logistics Job Fair, which is free to both exhibitors and job seekers, will take place from 9 a.m. to noon May 14 at Columbus State Community College Center for Workforce Development, 315 Cleveland Ave., 4th floor. Fifty companies, including Limited Brands, ODW Logistics and Pacer International, Inc., will be present. In addition to having access to company recruiters, job seekers can take advantage of educational sessions including presentations and training by COWIC and Ohio Means Jobs officials on career exploration, internships and applying for jobs, and resume critiques by Career Mentors officials. For more information on the Logistics Job Fair or to register a company to exhibit, visit columbus.org/crlcjobfair. Registration is not required for job seekers.###
About the Columbus Region Logistics Council Industry leaders formed the Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC) in 2008 to serve as the catalyst for the growth of the region’s logistics capability. CRLC is leading the implementation of a strategic road map that will continue to grow the region as a logistics hub by focusing on fostering a logistics-friendly business environment; developing and enhancing an advanced logistics infrastructure; infusing world-class logistics technology into regional industry; and building a high-skill workforce for competitive advantage. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
April 15, 2013
Kasich to Deliver Keynote Address at Columbus Chamber Government Day
Columbus, OH –Gov. John Kasich will deliver the keynote address at Columbus Chamber Government Day. The event, which focuses on advocacy, engagement and connections, will be held Friday, May 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, 50 N. Fourth St.
“A business-friendly environment is critical to our region and state’s prosperity. We are pleased Gov. Kasich is demonstrating his commitment to business by joining us at Government Day and sharing his vision for growth,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. The Government Day agenda also will include a local government address by John O’Grady, president, Franklin County Board of Commissioners*, as well as a one-on-one discussion with U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty from Ohio’s 3rd District. This event has a long-standing tradition of providing policymakers an opportunity to hear directly from businesses about issues that impact their short- and long-term operations. In addition to the morning and luncheon general sessions, Government Day will also feature a series of roundtables, which will allow participants to examine and deliberate on topics including: -Local development services
-Workforce development
-Education
-Tax reform
-Medicaid reform Each discussion will be moderated by a subject matter expert. Registration for Columbus Chamber Government Day is $75 (or $600 for a table of eight), with admission including networking, two roundtable sessions and the luncheon/keynote presentation. Visit columbus.org/govday to register. Columbus Chamber Government Day is presented by Columbia Gas of Ohio in partnership with Huntington Bank, Nationwide, White Castle, American Electric Power, AT&T, Ice Miller, LLP, Morgan Linen Services, Inc., Axia Consulting, LLC, Bricker & Eckler LLP, OhioHealth, Paul Werth Associates, State Auto Insurance Companies, The Ohio State University and Wagenbrenner Company. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. NOTE: John O’Grady was announced on 4/1 as local government address presenter.* -
Press Release
April 04, 2013
Columbus Chamber Members Provide Feedback on Tax Reform
A Special Update from Our Government Relations Team
Columbus, OH—The Columbus Chamber Government Relations Team has compiled the results from the membership survey regarding Governor Kasich’s Ohio Tax Reform Plan. The survey aimed to better understand members’ opinions and feelings toward the issue in order to better advocate on members’ behalf.
The Membership Survey showed that most people felt they had at least an adequate (or better) understanding of the Governor’s Tax Reform Plan. The percentage of people who had an “adequate” understanding of the Tax Reform Plan was at 55.6%, with a “strong” understanding at 22.2%, while a “minimal” and “no” understanding were at 19.8% and 2.5%, respectively. As you may be aware, the Governor’s Tax Reform Plan consists of key components such as: lowering the state income tax, state sales tax and increasing the severance tax on oil and natural gas extracted from horizontal shale wells, to name a few. Based on the survey, the majority, at 58.8% did not support the Governor’s tax reform package as a whole, while 41.3% did support it. From the survey, the majority of people, at about 60% had fewer than 50 employees at their business and about 75% of these businesses were service based. As the majority of people who participated in the survey had service based businesses, people who were not supportive of the Governor’s Tax Reform Plan as a package said this was because of the proposed sales tax on services and service professionals, and that it would not be beneficial to their businesses. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
March 20, 2013
Chamber Assesses Tax Reform Plan
A Special Update from Our Government Relations Team
As you most likely are aware, the Ohio General Assembly is currently debating the Governor’s tax reform package, which consists of a combination of tax cuts and revenue generation to provide for the tax cuts. In summary:
- The proposed tax cuts include: 20% cut to the state income tax phased in over three years, plus an immediate 50% tax cut on the first $750,000 a business earns, lowering the state sales tax from 5.5% to 5%. - The revenue generation for these cuts would occur by the expansion of sales tax base to include basically all services unless expressly exempted. These include health care, construction services, rental of residential property, education services, exempt social assistance services, day care services, insurance premiums, residential trash removal, oil and gas drilling services. View details. Your Chamber knows this issue is of tremendous importance to you, our members, and we want to assure you that we are assessing the situation and advocating on your behalf. Over the past few weeks, we have heard from a number of our members on both sides of this issue. We have met with central Ohio legislators and high ranking officials in the Governor’s administration to relay what we have heard from these members. To best represent our business’ interests, we need to hear from as many of you as possible. Tomorrow, the Columbus Chamber will be sending all members a short survey asking for your opinion on the Governor’s tax plan. One response per organization, please. We will continue to keep you informed of the process as we move forward. We greatly appreciate the numerous members who have already contacted us directly, and we look forward to talking to many more of you. -
Press Release
March 18, 2013
Columbus Chamber Announces 2013 Government Day Agenda
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced the agenda and key participants for its 2013 Government Day, slated for May 3 at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown. John O'Grady, president, Franklin County Board of Commissioners, will deliver the local government address, while Congresswoman Joyce Beatty of the Ohio Third District will participate in a question-and-answer session with Michael Hartley, the Chamber’s vice president of government relations.
“Advocacy is at the core of the Chamber’s mission, and providing this opportunity for direct access to and engagement with local, state and federal elected leaders is just one of the resources available to aid in businesses’ success,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “We look forward to mutually beneficial conversations between business leaders and public officials that lead to real, actionable results.” The event will kick off at 8:30 a.m. with exhibits, networking and registration, followed at 9 a.m. by welcoming remarks, the address from Ginther and discussion with Beatty. Roundtable discussions will begin at 10:10 a.m. Topics for the roundtables will include local development services, workforce development, education, tax reform and Medicaid reform. Each discussion will be moderated by a subject matter expert and will allow business leaders the opportunity to engage government leaders on issues that impact their operations. The luncheon and keynote presentation, featuring a yet-to-be announced speaker, will commence at 11:30 a.m. Registration for Government Day is $75 (or $600 for a table of eight), with admission including networking, one roundtable session and the luncheon/keynote presentation. Visit columbus.org/events to register by April 30. Columbus Chamber Government Day is presented by Columbia Gas of Ohio in partnership with Huntington Bank, Nationwide, White Castle, American Electric Power, AT&T, Ice Miller, LLP, Morgan Linen Services, Inc., Bricker & Eckler LLP, OhioHealth, Wagenbrenner Company, and State Auto Insurance Companies. NOTE: This release was updated April 1 to include a change in speakers. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
March 13, 2013
Columbus Region Logistics Council Names New Co-Chair
Ness Steps Down After Five Years, Williams Takes Reigns
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC), an initiative of Columbus Chamber for advancing logistics capabilities in the region, today announced that longtime member Tim Williams will assume the co-chair position of the group. Williams, senior vice president at McGraw Hill Education, will take over the duties of former co-chair, John Ness, owner and president of ODW Logistics.
“As a founding member and co-chairman of the CRLC, John Ness has provided tremendous leadership and insight—helping to develop and successfully execute the strategic roadmap that has established the Columbus Region as a top logistics spot in the country,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “We are grateful for his five years of service and look forward to continuing to collaborate with him.” Throughout Ness’ tenure, the CRLC’s mission has been to serve as the catalyst for the growth of the Region’s logistics capability by leading the implementation of a strategic roadmap that:- fosters a logistics friendly environment,
- develops advanced logistics infrastructure,
- infuses world-class logistics technology into the region and
- builds a high-skill workforce.
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
February 11, 2013
Columbus Chamber Announces New Members to Small Business Council
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced the addition of five new business leaders to its Small Business Council.
“Small businesses are critical to a thriving business community and economy,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “We value the opinions of the Small Business Council, as they inform our decisions and act as our lens into the small business community, which represents about 90 percent of membership.” This year’s additions, who come from a range of industry sectors ranging from architecture to travel to floral design, include: • Sherm Moreland, CEO, DesignGroup
• Gretchen Gordon, managing partner, Braveheart Sales Performance
• Joe Hoffman, CEO, United Commercial Travelers
• Caroline Z. Worley, owner, Worley Law, LLC
• Shanika Tyler, owner and CEO, FleurGirl, LLC Retiring from the Chamber’s Small Business Council are:
• Janis Mitchell, president and CEO, Precise Resource, Inc.
• Ed Walsh, shareholder-in-charge, Clark, Schaefer, Hackett & Co.
• Bill Kiefaber, client experience and business development executive, Questline The Columbus Chamber Small Business Council consists of 24 small business experts, as well as one representative each from the Chamber’s Board of Directors and the Chamber’s Entrepreneur Program. The Small Business Council evaluates and provides counsel regarding a variety of issues that affect small businesses in the Columbus Region. Previously, the council has addressed issues such as healthcare and economic development. Nominations for positions on the Small Business Council are accepted on an annual basis, typically in November and December. For more information on the Small Business Council, contact Somers Martin at 614.225.6919 or somers_martin@columbus.org.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
February 05, 2013
Columbus Chamber's Annual Meeting Celebrates Champions
Event features keynote by Urban Meyer, presentation of Columbus Award to Mayor Michael B. Coleman
Columbus, OH – More than 1,300 Columbus Region business and community leaders attended the Columbus Chamber’s 2013 Annual Meeting today at the Greater Columbus Convention Center’s Battelle Grand. The theme of the event was “Lead Like a Champion” – and it was highlighted by a keynote address from Urban Meyer, head football coach, The Ohio State University, as well as a celebration of Chamber accomplishments and region business champions.“One year ago, we launched the ‘new’ Columbus Chamber, featuring a new service model, more resources and connections and more government engagement. Our entire purpose is to help businesses thrive,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Its’ been a game-changing transition, and it is working. The Annual Meeting provides a chance for us to share the successes we’ve had with our member businesses and reinforce the Chamber’s role as the primary business resource in Columbus. If businesses just call us, we can save them time and connect them to the services and information they need.
Dalby recapped some Columbus Chamber milestones of 2012 including:
- Conducted 775 one-on-one visits with businesses – providing them with connections to vendors and new prospects, access to tailored market research, help in finding new hires and guidance in working with government. - Published two major studies, the Franklin County Retail Analysis and Columbus Region Logistics Report, positioning the Chamber as a source of original research on local business trends. - Bolstered advocacy efforts and grew the Government Relations team to four – helping members navigate bureaucracy and carrying the business message on issues like comprehensive tax reform, including municipal tax uniformity, regulation reform, education reform, workforce development and economic development. - Hosted 48 events, attended by 4,000+ individuals, offering business insights, access to elected officials, connections to potential employees, and opportunities to tap into its business network. - Performed 1,000 other actions every week to provide members with information, help solve problems, stand up for business and make connections. Jeffrey H. Sopp, CEO, Expesite and a member of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors, spoke at the meeting about the value his business received through its Chamber membership. “The Columbus Chamber has been instrumental in helping grow my company, recruiting and retaining employees, as well as assisting in creating a world class client experience,” Sopp said. Urban Meyer Address: Lead Like a Champion The keynote address was delivered by Urban Meyer, the head football coach at The Ohio State University. He spoke about the importance and commitment to an environment for recruiting and coaching a talented team. Meyer, who led his first season with the Buckeyes in 2012, spent the last 20 years coaching successful football programs at schools including the University of Florida and the University of Utah. Columbus Award: A Legacy of Champions The Chamber also announced the recipient of the 50th annual Columbus Award Annual Meeting. The award, which recognizes outstanding business and community leadership, was bestowed to Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman.
Coleman has served as mayor since 2000, and has helped Central Ohio businesses triumph over economic hardship, with the region in the top third in the U.S. for its pace of economic recovery. He has contributed to developing a thriving downtown and a successful jobs creation initiative. In total, the mayor has helped to usher in 39,000 net new jobs and $6.9 billion in private capital investment throughout his 13 years in office. Coleman was also a driving force behind Columbus’ Bicentennial celebration in 2012.
“We’d like to thank Mayor Coleman for his years of public service, unwavering support and leadership during a time of economic transition,” said Melissa Ingwersen, president KeyBank Central Ohio District and Chairman, Columbus Chamber. “He has set a tone of collaboration with the local business community, and we are fortunate for his partnership and dedication to the region’s business leaders.”
As part of the honor, Ingwersen presented Coleman with a piece of artwork created by Dawson Kellogg, an associate professor of fine arts and graduate studies at Columbus College of Art and Design.
The Columbus Chamber 2013 Annual Meeting was presented by State Auto Insurance companies, along with Anthem – BlueCross BlueShield, CareWorks, CareWorks Consultants, Inc., American Electric Power Energy, Cassidy Turley Commercial Real Estate Services, the City of Columbus, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Proteam Solutions, Inc., Bartha, Columbus C.E.O Magazine, Mills James Creative Media, White Castle, Steptoe & Johnson, Leaderpromos.com, Morgan Linen Services, Inc., BakerHostetler, Oxford Consulting Group, Quick Solutions, Inc., Wells Fargo Insurance Companies, FastSigns Westerville, Spinelli’s Deli and Stenger Creative.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 30, 2013
Ohio House Introduces Bill on Municipal Income Tax Reform
From the Columbus Chamber Government Relations Team:
Today, Ohio House Bill 5 was introduced as a priority bill in the Ohio House of Representatives. The bill is sponsored by Representatives Grossman and Henne and focuses on municipal income tax reform with the goal of creating more uniformity and easing the conformance burden on businesses and tax payers. This bill will help with the recruitment of businesses, as well as assisting current businesses in Ohio. This will be one of the Columbus Chamber’s priority pieces of legislation in this General Assembly. You can learn more about the bill in the upcoming Capital Connection, the Columbus Chamber’s Government Affairs newsletter. Subscribe now.
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 29, 2013
Urban Meyer to Deliver Keynote Address at the Columbus Chamber Annual Meeting
What: The Columbus Chamber’s Annual Meeting, focusing on the theme “lead like a champion” – will stress how the Chamber’s model of providing connections, resources and solutions helps businesses thrive in the Columbus Region. The Chamber will also celebrate champions of the local business community and recognized the recipient of its 50th annual Columbus Award.
When: Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2013 Doors open at 7 a.m. Breakfast and networking kick off at 7:30 a.m.; the program runs from 8 to 9 a.m. The best time for media interviews is immediately following the program. Urban Meyer will not be available for interviews. Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center’s Battelle Grand, 400 N. High St. Why: The Chamber will reemphasize its commitment as a resource to existing businesses in the region, and the recipient of the coveted Columbus Award, highlighting outstanding business and community outreach, will be announced. Who: More than 1,300 business leaders from throughout the Columbus Region. Presenters will include: Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber; Bob Restrepo, president, chairman and CEO, State Auto Insurance Companies; Melissa Ingwersen, president, KeyBank Central Ohio District and Chairman, Columbus Chamber; Jeffry Sopp, CEO, Expesite; Gene Smith, associate vice president and director of athletics, The Ohio State University; and Urban Meyer, the event’s keynote speaker and head football coach at The Ohio State University. Media Attendance: Media interested in covering the Annual Meeting are asked to RSVP in advance. Please contact Janelle Huelsman at janelle.huelsman@fahlgren.com or call 614.383.1627 (office). The Chamber’s Annual Meeting is presented by State Auto Insurance Companies. Event sponsors and partners include Anthem – BlueCross BlueShield, CareWorks, CareWorks Consultants, Inc., American Electric Power Energy, Cassidy Turley Commercial Real Estate Services, the City of Columbus, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Proteam Solutions, Inc., Bartha, Columbus C.E.O Magazine, Mills James Creative Media, White Castle, Steptoe & Johnson, Leaderpromos.com, Morgan Linen Services, Inc., BakerHostetler, Oxford Consulting Group, Quick Solutions, Inc., Wells Fargo Insurance Companies, FastSigns Westerville, Spinelli’s Deli and Stenger Creative. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.columbus.org/annualmeeting/. The hashtag for the event is #ccam13.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 23, 2013
Columbus Chamber Partners With Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Chamber is proud to announce its new partnership with the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio (BBB) that will benefit Chamber and BBB members alike.
This collaboration will allow both organizations to combine resources and connections that will help members accelerate their business success with trustworthy business. The new partnership will benefit current and new members of both organizations through a discount toward membership from either organization. New Member Discount: -If a new BBB member signs up for Columbus Chamber membership, within 30 days of their BBB activation, they will receive a 20 percent discount on Chamber dues. (First year only)
-If a new Columbus Chamber member signs up for BBB membership, within 30 days of their Chamber activation, they will receive a 20 percent discount on BBB dues. (First year only) Current Member Discount: - If a current BBB member signs up for Columbus Chamber membership they will receive a 10 percent discount on BBB dues. (First year only)
-If a current Columbus Chamber member signs up for BBB membership they will receive a 10 percent discount on BBB dues. (First year only) The Chamber represents almost 1,800 members in the Columbus Region while the BBB represents 5,300 accredited businesses in Central Ohio. This partnership will aide in fueling the growth of trustworthy businesses in the Columbus Region. For more information, contact Kip Moore at kmorse@columbus-ohbb.org or Chamber Member Services at membership@columbus.org. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 23, 2013
Columbus Chamber Releases 2013 Public Policy Agenda
Agenda addresses issues spanning local, state and federal government
COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Columbus Chamber today announced the release of its 2013 Public Policy Agenda. In it, the Chamber focuses on policy issues aimed to educate its members, build relationships and create capital for the Central Ohio business community across local, state and federal levels of government. The “rolling agenda” also provides a series of action items aimed at continuing to maintain effective relationships on behalf of the Region’s business community. “The Columbus Chamber advocates on behalf of businesses’ best interest, and we strive to help create a fair and business-friendly environment,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Our Public Policy Agenda guides our course of action. In 2013, we will continue to collaborate with public officials and encourage reform to positively affect business-critical issues such as taxes, workforce, economic development and education.” The Public Policy Agenda is authored with input from the Chamber’s nearly 2,000 members, as well as expertise from its Government Affairs Steering Committee. An evolving document, the agenda will be updated periodically throughout the year, as new issues and priorities arise. The initial agenda outlines the following priorities: -Local policy and programming issues include education reform, small business assistance, taxes and addressing professional, economic and workforce development. -Statewide-level reforms focus on taxes also, as well as health care, education, regulatory reform, economic and workforce development. The Chamber will also address infrastructure investments and redistricting reform. -At the federal level, the Chamber will attend to transportation infrastructure, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, research and development and education policies as they relate to workforce. The Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, a cost benefit-analysis of national defense installations, will also be a focus. Visit http://columbus.org/services/advocacy/ for more details and information regarding the Chamber’s advocacy initiatives, including events and Government Affairs Steering Committee. A full version of the Chamber’s 2013 Public Policy Agenda is available here. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 15, 2013
Columbus Chamber Announces Support for Responsible Medicaid Expansion
COLUMBUS, OH--Today the Columbus Chamber announced its support of responsible Medicaid expansion in Ohio consistent with its Public Policy Agenda.
“The Columbus Chamber’s Public Policy Agenda calls for efforts to control healthcare costs, while also maintaining high quality of care for the citizens of our community. We frequently hear from Chamber members about the need to address the rising costs of healthcare coverage,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Currently the cost of uninsured Ohioans is borne by employers, hospitals systems, and all of our region’s citizens in the form of higher health insurance costs. Responsible Medicaid coverage presents a real opportunity to bend the healthcare cost curve by moving individuals into appropriate, lower-cost settings.” Multiple studies have shown that uninsured patients too often utilize expensive emergency department settings as their primary access point for healthcare. These individuals often delay seeking treatment until their health has significantly deteriorated, leading to much higher healthcare costs. Ohio Medicaid expansion would provide coverage for individuals up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level ($15,420 for an individual, $26,352 for a family of three). Joining the Columbus Chamber in supporting Ohio Medicaid expansion are the four regional health system members of the Chamber -- OhioHealth, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Mount Carmel Health System, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “This presents a unique opportunity to promote long-term stability of the state’s healthcare costs and create more rational incentives in the health care delivery system” said Central Ohio health system CEOs, David Blom (OhioHealth), Steve Gabbe, MD (OSUWMC), and Claus von Zychlin (Mount Carmel). “By directing individuals into patient-centered medical homes and appropriate clinical settings, we can better manage costs and improve the overall quality of care.” “Although Ohio children are already eligible for Medicaid up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level, the health of the entire family is of paramount importance to the economic vibrancy of our community”, said Steve Allen, MD, CEO of Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “That is why we join with our adult health system partners in supporting responsible Ohio Medicaid expansion.” The Columbus Chamber represents nearly 2,000 businesses in the Columbus Region and serves as a primary advocate for a business-friendly environment. The advocacy role of the Chamber centers on educating members, building relationships and creating a capital program for the Central Ohio business community. A Public Policy Agenda, a rolling agenda, guides the Chamber’s public policy actions. The 2013 agenda has been approved and will be published later this week. For more information on the Columbus Chamber’s advocacy efforts, visit here. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
December 21, 2012
Columbus Chamber to Feature SoMoLend as Top Choice for Crowdfunding
CINCINNATI and COLUMBUS, Ohio—SoMoLend (www.somolend.com), a leading debt-based crowdfunding platform designed to match small business borrowers with investors looking to make a return on investment, announces a new partnership with the Columbus Chamber. SoMoLend will be the Chamber’s first recommendation for crowdfunding and featured on the access to capital section of the Chamber website.
“We are really looking forward to working with the Columbus Chamber. This region has a tremendous small business community. Our goal is to help educate small businesses about crowdfunding, and illustrate how our platform can fuel economic growth in central Ohio by helping entrepreneurs get access to the funding they need to sustain their operations,” said Cheryl Stamm, VP of Sales. The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. Additionally, SoMoLend announces the launch of their next SoMoLaunch Business Competition. Small businesses will be able to enter for a chance to win $1,000 towards funding their business. SoMoLaunch registration will be open through January 15. For more information or to enter, visit https://www.somolend.com/Launch.aspx. Small businesses that apply for a loan through the SoMoLend platform will pay no transaction fees now through December 31, 2012. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
December 17, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces New Board Members
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber announced today the election of five new members to its Board of Directors, as well as the re-election of six Board members, all of whom will serve three-year terms, commencing in February 2013.
The 32-member Board represents the nearly 2,000 member businesses of the Columbus Chamber-- from Fortune 500 corporations to some of the Region's most innovative and entrepreneurial small and mid-sized businesses. The Boards’ role is to advise and consent on Chamber policy and help guide the Chamber team as they work to provide connections, resources and solutions to help the Region’s businesses thrive. New to the Board of Directors are: Ron Calhoun, president and chief executive officer, Palmer-Donavin; Darla King, president and chief executive officer, King Business Interiors, and incoming chairman of the Chamber’s Small Business Council; Katie Wolfe Lloyd, vice president and publisher, Dispatch Magazines; John Lowe, chief executive officer, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams; and Abigail Pringle, senior vice president of strategic initiatives and planning, Wendy’s. “The incoming Board members represent a diverse group of some of Columbus’ brightest business leaders,” said Melissa Ingwersen, chairman, Columbus Chamber Board of Directors. “Through the gift of their time and talent, they will drive the Chamber’s mission forward and help us to continue to grow the Columbus Region economy.” Other Board announcements: Re-elected to the Board of Directors are: Terri Hill, president, Nationwide Growth Solutions; Jeff Kaplan, president, The Ohio State University Foundation; Stephen Kelly, senior vice president, Battelle; John McEwan, office managing partner, Deloitte & Touche USA, LLP; Lonnie Miles, chief executive officer, Miles-McClellan Construction, Inc.; and Gregory Overmyer, chief executive officer, Overmyer Hall Associates. Retiring from the Board are: Doug Morgan, president, Morgan Law.co; Bill Pfeiffer, chairman and chief executive officer, CareWorks; Elaine Roberts, president and chief executive officer, Columbus Regional Airport Authority; Eric Smith, vice chairman, Team Fishel; and Jeff Logan, managing partner, McCloy Financial Services and outgoing chairman of the Chamber’s Small Business Council. “These individuals have served us by promoting Chamber initiatives to help businesses and advocate for a business-friendly environment,” Ingwersen said. “We’re grateful for their guidance and support.” New members and outgoing members will be officially recognized at the 2013 Columbus Chamber Annual Meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 5 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The meeting’s theme is “Lead Like a Champion,” and it will feature Urban Meyer, head football coach of The Ohio State University, as the keynote speaker. For more information on the meeting, visit columbus.org/annualmeeting###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
December 11, 2012
Ohio Chamber of Commerce and Ohio Metro Chambers Report on Redesigning Ohio Progress
Update includes reforms implemented and resulting fiscal progress and job growth
Columbus, OH – The Ohio Chamber of Commerce and the Metro Chambers of Commerce today reported on the progress that has been achieved since their 2010 release of Redesigning Ohio: Transforming Government into a 21st Century Institution. The Redesigning Ohio Update also provides a series of recommended next steps aimed at continuing to make government more effective and efficient. The updated report will be presented to Governor Kasich and the members of the Ohio General Assembly for their use and reference as they begin the budget-writing process.
“Since the initial Redesigning Ohio report was released in 2010, many of our recommendations have been implemented. This has helped Ohio eliminate an $8 billion budget shortfall without raising taxes and put us on the path to prosperity,” said Ellen van der Horst, president of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber and chair of the Metro Chambers of Commerce. “However, there is more work to do to make the state as job-friendly as it can be.” The report cites the progress that has been made in reforming Ohio’s regulatory climate, and achieving local government efficiencies through shared services and cost-cutting. Reforms that were recommended in the report have helped slow the increasing cost of Medicaid and reigned in the cost of the state’s criminal justice system. Recently enacted public pension reforms are identified in the report as an important first step toward stabilizing these systems. In addition, Ohio’s economic climate has improved considerably, with unemployment decreasing from 9.2 percent in December 2010 to 6.9 percent in August 2012, and Ohio passed a balanced 2012-13 state budget. In the updated report, the chambers suggest an ongoing commitment to all of the initial recommendations and give priority to: -Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of local governments.
-Helping state and local governments become more results-driven.
-Performing a dynamic analysis of Ohio tax expenditures.
-Improving healthcare outcomes and related Medicaid costs.
-Reforming the public primary and secondary education system for continued education improvement. The initial report resulted from a year-long project that engaged chamber members, civic leaders and industry experts to make recommendations regarding Ohio’s 2012-2013 budget and projected $6 billion to $8 billion deficit. It identified the need for state and local governments to be more effective and efficient and offered a road map for long-term, transformational change and meaningful recommendations to address the state’s fiscal crisis. The chambers worked with author and public policy expert David Osborne and former state budget director Greg Browning to produce the 2010 report. The coalition of chambers includes the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and these chambers representing Ohio’s largest metropolitan areas: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, Columbus Chamber, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Akron Chamber, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce and Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber. -
Press Release
December 07, 2012
Redesigning Ohio Press Conference to Update and Outline Continued Financial Progress
Metro Chambers of Commerce of Ohio and the Ohio Chamber of Commerce analyze statewide economic development results and provide recommendations
What: The Ohio Chamber of Commerce and the Metro Chambers of Commerce of Ohio will provide an update to their 2010 report, Redesigning Ohio: Transforming Government into a 21st Century Institution. The group will report on substantial advancements toward the policy goals outlined in the original report and recommend next steps to improve economic development for the State of Ohio. When: 2 p.m., Tuesday, December 11, 2012
The best time for media interviews is immediately following the program. Where: Capital Club’s Bistro Room, 41 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio Who: Speaking at the event are Ellen van der Horst, president and chief executive officer of Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber; Andrew Doehrel, president and chief executive of the officer of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce; and Tom Humphries, president and chief executive officer of Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber. Special guests: all CEOs from the Metro Chambers of Commerce of Ohio and the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. The Metro Chambers of Commerce of Ohio is comprised of: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Cincinnati USA Regional Chapter, Columbus Chamber, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Akron Chamber, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce and Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber.-30-
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Press Release
December 05, 2012
Columbus Chamber Offers Columbus Historic Book at Special Discounted Price; Author Ed Lenz to Participate in Book Signing at Easton Store Dec. 15
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber announced that “Historic Columbus – A Bicentennial History,” a commemorative history book showcasing Columbus’ past two centuries, is now available at a special discounted price. The 200-page coffee table book, published in partnership with the city of Columbus, can be purchased for $29.95.
Author and local historian Ed Lenz will participate in a “Historic Columbus” book signing at the 200Columbus Art Gallery at Easton Dec. 15 from 6 – 9 p.m. The gallery is located in the Station Building on the second level, near Bar Louie. “Historic Columbus” contains hundreds of photographs, illustrations, maps and other images, many of which have never before been in print. Also included is a “Sharing The Heritage” section, chronicling the histories of many of Columbus’ leading corporations and organizations that have played a role in the development and economic strength of the city. In addition to the 200Columbus Art Gallery, Historic Columbus can be purchased by contacting the Chamber at 614.221.1321. -
Press Release
December 04, 2012
Evaluate Your Annual Workers' Compensation Costs
Announcement from Our Partner CareWorks Consultants, Inc.
We want to remind you that now is an important time of year to evaluate your annual workers’ compensation costs. We encourage you to review the quote you received through the Columbus Chamber’s workers’ compensation program partner, CareWorks Consultants. The deadline to secure your projected premium savings is fast approaching, February 28, 2013 for group rating and April 30, 2013 for group retrospective rating.
The Chamber’s goal is to save you money with this program. In 2012 alone, our workers’ compensation program has provided substantial savings to over 300 members reaching over $1.2 million. To take advantage of the premium savings offered and join the program please complete the documents enclosed with your quote by the above deadlines. If you have any questions on your quote or would like to complete your enrollment in the group by submitting the documents, please contact CareWorks Consultants’ Jason Bainum at 1.800.837.3200, ext. 7114, via email at jason.bainum@ccitpa.com or by fax at 614.210.5028. You can also watch our webinar on demand to learn how to find the best workers' comp for your business. View now. -
Press Release
November 28, 2012
Industry-Led Columbus Region Logistics Council and Columbus Chamber Release 2012 Columbus Region Logistics Report
Report details a thorough analysis of the latest trends in the logistics sector
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber, along with the Columbus Region Logistics Council, today announced the release of its 2012 Columbus Region Logistics Report. In the new report, the Chamber and Council analyze the opportunities and trends in the logistics sector, including employment, workforce, foreign trade, domestic trade and real estate.
Within the 11-county Columbus Region, the more than 80,000 employees in transportation, warehousing and wholesale industries represented a concentration of logistics employment 41 percent greater than logistics share in national employment. Postal codes that have seen concentrated growth included Groveport, near Rickenbacker International Airport, Lockbourne and those along Interstate 70, such as Reynoldsburg, Eastland and West Jefferson. Furthermore, the gains in the Region’s highest-performing postal codes outweighed the losses in the lowest performing areas. “The report delivers promising news about the logistics industry, which is important, given the influence its growth rate has had on our region,” Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber, said. “Along with that rate come opportunities for Columbus to become a major domestic and international exporter and for business leaders to plan for expansion within the region.” Jung Kim, the Columbus Chamber’s research director, included the following highlights in the 2012 Columbus Region Logistics Report: -From 2001 to 2011, employment in warehousing and storage experienced 65 percent growth, an increase in 5,931 jobs and the largest source of growth within the logistics sector. Truck transportation experienced a gain of 17 percent during same time, adding 2,564 jobs. -Although the Region is experiencing decreasing seasonal employment in retail, seasonal employment in transportation and warehousing is increasing by an estimated 5-6 percent. The likely cause behind this shift is changes in e-commerce and advantages in logistics. -Despite sector growth, workforce wages remain competitive against those nationwide. As defined by the confines of the report, the average logistics employee in Columbus earns $15.27 per hour, just 4 percent lower than the U.S. average of $15.88. -Internationally, the Region has made its mark as a destination for foreign imports, with companies such as Cardinal Health, Limited Brands and Abercrombie & Fitch, all of which have distribution centers in the Region. In 2010, the value of foreign imports arriving to Columbus was $11.3 billion, compared to $4.7 billion in international exports. -In 2010, the top five domestic exports from Columbus were pharmaceuticals ($18.0 billion), textiles and leather ($17.4 billion), chemical products ($12.2 billion), motorized vehicles ($12.1 billion) and mixed freight ($11.1 billion). -Since the first quarter of 2011, the industrial vacancy rate in the Region has steadily decreased from 13.2 percent to 10.0 percent, according to Colliers International. A full version of the 2012 Columbus Region Logistics Report is available here. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
November 13, 2012
Columbus Chamber Honors 2012 Business Summit Award Recipients
Columbus, OH – Six leaders from four growing businesses were honored today at the Columbus Chamber Business Summit. The Business Summit Awards celebrate those who have achieved commercial success and contributed to the economic development of the Columbus Region.
“Entrepreneurs and small business leaders are engines that drive our economy forward. The Chamber is proud to support these businesses, and today we lift up the best of the best with the Business Summit Awards,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. Chosen from a field of more than 150 nominees, honorees demonstrated strength and achievement in categories ranging from innovation to diversity. Each is considered a small business, with less than 500 employees. This year’s Columbus Chamber Business Summit award recipients in each category were:
Adapt and Innovate
Pamela Springer, president/CEO of Manta
Recognizes those who evolved their business in spite of economic obstacles and other challenges. Presented by Award Partner Oxford Consulting. Emerging Excellence
Debra Jasper, Ph.D. and Betsy Hubbard, co-founders of Mindset Digital, LLC
Highlights the leadership of one of the region’s newest businesses that is finding success and gaining prominence in the marketplace. Presented by Award Partner OhioHealth. Diversity Leadership
Otto Beatty, III and Brian Brooks, co-owners of E.E. Ward Moving & Storage Co. LLC
Honors a minority or woman-owned business leader that promotes an atmosphere of inclusion within his or her day-to-day business operations. Presented by Award Partner Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP. Young Professional Leadership
Michelle Galligan, CEO of ViaVero Consulting
Recognizes an outstanding young professional who is already making a positive impact with his or her talents and abilities. Presented by Award Partner Aileron. Profiles of each recipient, as well as the award finalists, can be read on the Columbus Chamber blog. Award recipients were announced during the luncheon portion of today’s Columbus Chamber Business Summit, which also included a keynote address from Mark Kvamme, former president of JobsOhio. Prior to the luncheon, attendees participated in interactive panel discussions focused on branding and entrepreneurship. The event continued the Chamber’s and its Small Business Council’s tradition of the Small Business Forum and Leader Awards and the organization’s long history of supporting and honoring the business community. The Columbus Chamber is small business focused. Ninety percent of the Chamber’s members are small businesses, and no other local organization is as deeply connected to this group as the Chamber. “Whether it is through surveys, other research, one-on-one connections, or events, the Columbus Chamber keeps its finger on the pulse of small business. And we continually evolve our programs and services to better serve them,” Dalby said. The Columbus Chamber Business Summit was presented by Commerce National Bank, presenting partner Columbus C.E.O Magazine, and honorary chair Mike Rosati of Rosati Windows. Additional support from AEP Energy, Big Lots, City of Columbus, State Auto Insurance Companies and Wells Fargo. -
Press Release
October 30, 2012
Columbus Chamber Webinar Gauges Social Media Discussion Around General Election in the Columbus Region
Social media analysis of the Region’s pivotal voters looks at issues and candidates
Columbus, OH – In a webinar earlier today, the Columbus Chamber, along with social media research partner Fathom, took a glimpse into the Region’s election views via social media vehicles. The first-of-its-kind webinar showcased Columbus views about the issues and opinions for the upcoming general election. Fathom gathered more than 22,000 results dated September 10 through October 29, 2012, in which it analyzed social media conversations that were specific to the Region, related to either presidential candidate and discussed a specific topic or issue.
“This study, unlike the typical political polls currently being used to predict election results, takes an in depth look at how people in the Columbus Region are expressing themselves online,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “By looking through these results, it puts the top issues of the election and perspective and emphasizes just how close the race is between the two candidates.” In its analysis, Fathom found: - Candidate visits to the Region drove social media conversations, which complemented the fact that conversations peaked between October 8 and October 10, 2012, when both President Obama and former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney made campaign stops in Ohio. - Overall, media-related sites hosted the highest volume of traffic, quadrupling that on Twitter, the second most popular channel. Twitter was followed by online message boards, blogs and social networks such as Facebook and LinkedIn. Photo and video sites drove the smallest amount of online discussion. - Extreme results exist in terms of demographics within social media conversations. More than double as many men as women discussed the election online, and voters 50-years-old or older were more likely to be engaged in online discussion than any other age group. Authors skewed the spectrum in terms of their influence, too – they were either highly influential online or had very little influence. -The most popular issues discussed via social media were taxes, health care and jobs. - When it came to the candidates, President Obama had more total conversations (16,602) and a higher number of positive conversations (24 percent) than Romney; however, the conversations mentioning Romney (13,390) had a higher ratio of positive conversations (29 percent). “Ultimately, the race in Ohio is as close to a tie as you could have. If we look at sheer volume, President Obama wins. On every issue, he has a larger numbers of positive comments than Governor Romney. At the same time, for the conversations that do involve Romney, there is a greater percentage of those conversations that tend to be positive,” said Bill Balderaz, president, Fathom Columbus. “There are going to be two deciding factors come November 6: voter turnout and momentum. A large voter turnout would favor the President, quite simply he has the larger number of supporters based on our data. Smaller turnout would favor Governor Romney. Momentum is also important. In recent days, Romney is gaining momentum at a faster pace than the President. If Romney continues to grow this momentum at a faster pace than the President, he could eclipse Obama right around Election Day.” With the Columbus Region as a pivotal point in the 2012 presidential election, voters are likely to influence the outcome of the race. According to the New York Times blog fivethirtyeight.com, Ohio voters have a 38 percent chance of casting the deciding electoral votes. Earlier this month, the Chamber released recent survey results that identified business leaders’ top concerns heading into the election. -
Press Release
October 22, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces Award Finalists for Nov. 13 Business Summit
Awards to recognize business leaders in categories ranging from innovation to diversity
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced the award finalists for its upcoming Business Summit, planned for November 13 at The Renaissance Columbus Downtown.
The finalists were chosen based on their strengths in the identified categories, resulting from an open nomination process in July. More than 150 nominations were received. Finalists include: - Lisa Huang, president of Advanced Engineering Consultants
- Wayne “Skip” Stringfield, owner/president of Coalesce Software, Inc.
- Otto Beatty, III and Brian Brooks, co-owners of E.E. Ward Moving & Storage Co. LLC
- Mohan Viddam and Sanjay Dudaney, CEO and president, respectively, of Halcyon Solutions
- Parker MacDonell, principal of Invergarry Partners
- Pamela Springer, president/CEO of Manta Media
- Debra Jasper and Betsy Hubbard, co-founders of Mindset Digital, LLC
- Michelle Kerr, president of Oxford Consulting Group, Inc.
- Michelle Galligan, CEO of ViaVero Consulting Finalists will be recognized for Summit Awards in the following categories, with one recipient selected in each: - Adapt and Innovate – recognizes those who evolved their business ahead in spite of economic obstacles and other challenges. Presented by Award Partner Oxford Consulting.
- Diversity Leadership – honors a minority or woman-owned business leader that promotes an atmosphere of inclusion within his or her day-to-day business operations. Presented by Award Partner Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP. - Emerging Excellence – highlights the leadership of one of the region’s newest businesses that is finding success and gaining prominence in the marketplace. Presented by Award Partner OhioHealth. - Young Professional Leadership – recognizes an outstanding young professional who is already making a positive impact with his or her talents and abilities. Presented by Award Partner Aileron. Award recipients will be announced during the luncheon portion of the Business Summit, which also will include a keynote address from Mark Kvamme, former president of JobsOhio. Prior to the luncheon, attendees will participate in high-impact, interactive panel discussions focused on branding and entrepreneurship. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Renaissance Columbus Downtown. Tickets, which include the morning sessions and luncheon award program, are $75 and are available at columbus.org/summit. The event continues the Chamber’s and its Small Business Council’s tradition of the Small Business Forum and Leader Awards and the organization’s long history of supporting and honoring the business community. The Columbus Chamber Business Summit is presented by Commerce National Bank, presenting partner Columbus C.E.O Magazine, and honorary chair Mike Rosati of Rosati Windows. Additional support from AEP Energy, Big Lots, City of Columbus, State Auto Insurance Companies and Wells Fargo. -
Press Release
October 15, 2012
Columbus Chamber Hosting 'Columbus Decides' Webinar
Event to provide current glimpse into Columbus Region election views via social media
What: The Columbus Chamber, along with social media research partner Fathom, will host a first-of-its-kind webinar to provide a glimpse into the Columbus Region’s election views via social media vehicles like Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Using research gathered in the days leading up to the event, the webinar will identify key issues and opinions specific to the region. The content will supplement the Chamber’s recent survey results, identifying business leaders’ top concerns heading into the election. The Chamber’s vice president of government relations, Michael Hartley, will moderate the discussion. When: Tuesday, October 30, 2012 10 a.m. Why: According to Nate Silver’s highly respected New York Times blog, fivethirtyeight.com, Ohio has a 38 percent chance of casting the deciding electoral votes in this year’s presidential election. Because of its strong economy and diverse political atmosphere, the Columbus Region is a key factor in that prediction. This webinar will shed light on what the vital voters are saying leading up to the election. Who: In addition to Chamber and Fathom representatives conducting and presenting research, media will have access to local business leaders tuning into the webinar to learn more about the region’s election-related social media chatter. -
Press Release
October 09, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces Topics, Panelists for Upcoming Business Summit
Breakout sessions to focus on branding, entrepreneurship
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced the topics for its panel discussions at the upcoming Business Summit, planned for November 13: “Building a Breakthrough Brand” and “Innovation: Lessons from Startup Entrepreneurs.”
The branding-related session is moderated by Artie Isaac of Vistage Columbus and features panelists Bev Bethge of Ologie, Lynn Blashford of White Castle, and Ryan Vesler of Homage. Discussion will focus on standing out from competition, transforming into recognizable brands, and creating a following of loyal customers and clients. Moderated by Brooke Paul of Founders Factory, the second session focuses on entrepreneurship and features panelists Todd Whittier of Left Channel, Shawn O’Reilly of Robert Gregory Partners, and Bob Sheehan of BMW Financial Services. Attendees will learn how to run their businesses like an entrepreneur, including the value of innovation for established businesses, fostering resources via “intrapreneurship,” leveraging entrepreneurs and startups, and managing the risks of innovation. In addition to the high-impact, interactive morning panel discussions, the Business Summit includes a luncheon, during which Mark Kvamme, former president, JobsOhio, will deliver the keynote address. Afterward, the Chamber will recognize the region’s best with the Summit awards. Finalists for each category will be announced later this month. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Renaissance Columbus Downtown. Tickets, which include the morning sessions and luncheon award program, are $75 and are available at columbus.org/summit. The event continues the Chamber’s and its Small Business Council’s tradition of the Small Business Forum and Leader Awards and the organization’s long history of supporting and honoring the business community. The Columbus Chamber Business Summit is presented by Commerce National Bank and Columbus C.E.O Magazine, and honorary chair Mike Rosati of Rosati Windows with support from AEP Energy, Big Lots, The City of Columbus, State Auto Insurance Companies and Wells Fargo. -
Press Release
October 02, 2012
Columbus Chamber Survey Reveals Business Leaders' Top Concerns Heading into Election Season
Healthcare, tax structure top of mind for business community
Columbus, OH - According to a recent survey issued by the Columbus Chamber, businesses in the Columbus Region pinpoint two key issues as having the most impact on their operations as the election season approaches: healthcare and tax structure.
“Businesses in the Columbus Region are most troubled with factors that make it difficult to plan long-term for their financial success,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “There is definitely a perception of uncertainty around healthcare costs and tax structure, which adds an element of hesitation around growing existing operations and hiring new talent. This certainly impacts the regional economy.” When asked to identify the No. 1 issue impact their businesses, relating to this year’s election, 43.8 percent cited healthcare. Tax structure was the second-most cited response, with 36 percent. Most respondents pointed to the cost and uncertainty of future healthcare and tax requirements as most detrimental to their businesses – even if they have differing opinions on the most effective path. “If health insurance were owned by an individual and not tied to an employer, I could have expanded my business, probably doubling it,” said Joe Genco, president, Community Creations, Inc. “I would have had access to a much larger pool of applicants, possibly better qualified ones at that. It is the number one obstacle to hiring and retaining salespeople for my company.” Said John Lowe, CEO of Jen’s Splendid Ice Creams, “We want this election to cement a healthcare system that provides for all Americans. We believe a single-payer health care system is pro-business and pro-entrepreneurship, rather than anti- as is often discussed in popular media.” “We have a diverse membership,” noted Dalby, “and while they may differ in their opinions on healthcare or taxation solutions, they were clear on the negative impact of uncertainty.” Other key issues identified by survey respondents ranged from access to capital and the availability of a qualified workforce to regulatory issues and the state of the regional and national economy. The survey results included responses from more than 100 businesses in the region. Approximately 65 percent of those responding represented businesses with fewer than 50 full-time employees, with the second biggest breakdown – businesses with 51 to 200 employees – representing approximately 19 percent. -
Press Release
October 01, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces November Events
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber’s November events include:
Columbus Region Logistics Council Education Event
Wednesday, November 7 from 4 to 7 p.m.
Station 67, 379 West Broad Street
A panel of Columbus Region prognosticators will share trends and forecasts regarding what the logistics industry will look like in 2013. The event is free, but registration is required at www.columbus.org/events.Columbus Chamber Business Summit
Tuesday, November 13 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Renaissance Columbus Downtown, 50 North Third Street
This annual event, formerly known as the Small Business Forum, both connects business executives to ideas and resources to help their businesses thrive and recognizes the success of top Columbus business leaders. The event will feature keynote speaker Mark Kvamme of JobsOhio. Tickets are available for $75 at www.columbus.org/events. Webinar: The Social Media Hot List
Wednesday, November 14 from 10 to 10:45 a.m.
Pinterest, Instagram and Google+ are bright, shiny social media darlings, but are they for you and your business? Find out from Kelly Malone of Fahlgren Mortine what’s trending in social media, how other businesses are using these tools and if you should be jumping on or cautiously watching. The event is free, but registration is required at www.columbus.org/events. To view the entire schedule of upcoming Columbus Chamber events, as well as events hosted by Chamber members and events for Young Professionals, visit www.columbus.org/events. For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to businesses, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
September 27, 2012
New Highway Projects to Benefit Columbus Region
Background:
Two major announcements have occurred today surrounding highway projects in the Columbus Region. This morning, Ohio Department of Transportation Director (ODOT) Jerry Wray announced that the department is expediting five projects, two of which concern Columbus Region. This afternoon, ODOT and U.S. Congressman Pat Tiberi jointly announced that two additional projects will begin next summer-- the I-270/Rt. 23 and I-70/I-71 at Mound Street projects. As a logistics hub, these projects are priorities for the Columbus Region, and the Columbus Chamber and Columbus Region Logistics Council have fiercely advocated for them to move forward.
Statement from Michael Dalby, President and CEO, Columbus Chamber: "Keeping central Ohio moving safely and efficiently is essential to job creation. We applaud the Governor and State of Ohio for working efficiently, maximizing tight budgets and prioritizing these critical, leap-ahead projects. This effort is an important improvement to the way the department works that's paying off for the Columbus area." Read a related July 27, 2012 op-ed by Dalby in Business First. -
Press Release
September 19, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces Opposition to Ohio Issue 2
Chamber Recommends Sensible Process Reforms, Bi-partisan Collaboration
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced its opposition to Ohio Issue 2, the Ohio redistricting amendment, which will appear on the Nov. 6 ballot.
The proposed constitutional amendment would create an unelected, 12-member commission that would draw legislative and congressional districts, with the commission appointed through a process involving eight Court of Appeals judges selected by the Ohio Supreme Court. The Chamber opposes the issue because it is not bi-partisan, places judges in a partisan situation, and undermines the ‘separation of powers’ doctrine in the constitution. Instead, the organization supports sensible reforms to Ohio’s redistricting and reapportionment process that would provide accountability and enable voters to rely on fair legislative and congressional districts. “Our business community desires a redistricting process that answers to elected officials. We agree that reform is needed, however this proposed amendment isn’t the solution,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. “While we oppose Issue 2, we strongly urge the legislature to work in a bi-partisan fashion to craft a workable redistricting plan far in advance of the 2018 statewide races.” The full copy of the Chamber’s resolution opposing Ohio Issue 2 may be read at Columbus.org. The Chamber’s position was determined after a thorough analysis, discussions with Chamber membership and input from the Chamber’s volunteer Government Affairs Steering Committee, as well as presentations by and discussions with proponents and opponents of Issue 2. The position was finalized by a vote of the Chamber’s board. This position is consistent with the Columbus Chamber’s position in 2005 on State Issue 4, which also sought to implement a flawed mechanism to change the way state and federal legislative districts were drawn. -
Press Release
September 19, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces Endorsement of the Franklin County Office on Aging Senior Options Levy
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced its endorsement of the Franklin County Office on Aging Senior Options Levy, which will appear on the Nov. 6 ballot.
Proposing a levy of 1.3 mills, the effort would replace and increase the existing 0.9 mill levy set to expire at the end of 2012. The levy would help to support senior citizen services within the Franklin County Office on Aging for five years. The Franklin County Office on Aging provides services to approximately 6,000 adults monthly (more than 56,000 older adults in 2011), with an emphasis on helping residents ages 60 and older maintain their independence while also supporting family members with the task of caring for a frail older parent, family member, or friend with limited abilities. Franklin County has the lowest rate of seniors living in institutional care of any county in the state – 3.2 percent compared to the statewide average of 4.1 percent. The organization has experienced a loss of revenue as a result of the accelerated elimination of Tangible Personal Property Tax, the decrease of property values in Franklin County and decreased funding from other sources. With the senior population in Franklin County expected to grow by as much as 33 percent this decade, there is a growing demand for these services. “We felt it was important to endorse this issue, as it supports a segment of the population that has served us all and built the Columbus Region,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “As part of our support, we have challenged the Franklin County Office on Aging to be as efficient and effective as possible when expending these taxpayer dollars in the service of seniors.” The Chamber advocates that the Office on Aging adopt the four operational and programmatic recommendations of the Human Services Levy Review Committee, which include:- Identifying, documenting, and implementing outcomes for measuring success;
- Conducting a community needs assessment for aging services;
- Completing an operational and programmatic review within the Office on Aging; and
- Presenting a mid-levy review report in 2015 to the Human Services Levy Review Committee.
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Press Release
August 30, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces September, October Events
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber’s September and October events include:
Webinar: Analyzing Your Web Presence to Boost Your Business
Tuesday, September 11 from 10 to 10:45 a.m.As part of the Columbus Chamber’s new Smart Edge Professional Development Webinar Series, this session will be led by David Smith and Adam Deardurff of SBC Advertising and will focus on using web analytics to uncover data points and trends that will inform actionable insights for your business. The webinar is free. Mayor Michael B. Coleman Roundtable
Wednesday, September 26 from 8 to 9:30 a.m.
Capital Club, 41 S. High Street, 7th Fl Open to a maximum of 20 Columbus Chamber members, Mayor Michael B. Coleman will participate in a roundtable discussion focusing on business and governmental issues. Seats will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. $25.
Webinar: Understanding Electricity Deregulation and How It Can Impact Your Business’ Bottom Line
Wednesday, September 26 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. AEP Energy, the Columbus Chamber’s new electric generation savings partner, will provide an overview of Ohio’s deregulated electricity market and how your business can save money. The webinar is free. Columbus Chamber Clambake
Thursday, September 27 from 5 to 9 p.m. Zoombezi Bay at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, 10101 Riverside Drive Celebrating its 89th year at a new location, the Clambake will bring together Columbus Chamber members and guests for an opportunity to make business connections and enjoy a seafood extravaganza featuring clams, chicken, lobster and more. Members, $85 for individual tickets and $680 for a table of eight; non-members, $95 for individual tickets and $760 for a table of eight. Webinar: How Small Businesses Can Collaborate for Success Tuesday, October 9 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. As part of the Columbus Chamber’s new Smart Edge Professional Development Webinar Series, this session will be led by Derek Grosso, chairman & CEO of The Grosso Group and president of the Columbus Young Professionals Club. Grosso will focus on how small businesses collaborate with local organizations to maximize success. The webinar is free. Columbus Chamber Business AfterHours
Wednesday, October 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Overlooking North Bank Park in the Arena District, GBQ Partners' contemporary, open office space will make for a perfect venue for the third Columbus Chamber Business AfterHours reception of the year. The event is free for members and $25 for non-members.
To view the entire schedule of upcoming Columbus Chamber events, as well as events hosted by Chamber members and events for Young Professionals, visit www.columbus.org/events. For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to businesses, visit www.columbus.org.
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About the Columbus Chamber The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information, visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
August 28, 2012
Mark Kvamme to Deliver Keynote Address at Columbus Chamber's Business Summit
JobsOhio chief to focus on entrepreneurship, building a business in the region
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced that Mark Kvamme, president and interim chief investment officer for JobsOhio, will deliver the keynote address at its Business Summit November 13. JobsOhio is the private, nonprofit organization established by Governor John Kasich and the Ohio legislature to lead the state’s job creation and economic development efforts. Kvamme, a successful venture capitalist before joining JobsOhio, is slated to focus his speech on the importance of entrepreneurship and building a business in the Columbus Region. “Ninety percent of our membership is made up of businesses with fewer than 500 full-time employees, including entrepreneurs and start-up ventures, so it’s only fitting that we dedicate the Business Summit to this audience,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Mark Kvamme lives and breathes in the world of economic development every day, so his insights will be invaluable.” The Columbus Chamber Business Summit will run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Renaissance Columbus Downtown. The morning portion will include business-critical discussions from panels of experts during two high-impact, interactive morning panel discussions on the topics of entrepreneurship and branding. During the luncheon, Kvamme will deliver his keynote address and the Chamber will recognize the region’s best with the Summit awards. Finalists for each category will be announced in October. Tickets for the event, including the morning sessions and luncheon award program, are $75 and are available at columbus.org/businesssummit. The event continues the Chamber’s tradition of the Small Business Forum and Leader Awards and the organization’s long history of supporting and honoring the business community. The Columbus Chamber Business Summit is Presented by Commerce National Bank with Presenting Partner Columbus C.E.O. Magazine and Honorary Chair Mike Rosati. The event receives support from AEP Energy, Big Lots, the City of Columbus, State Auto Insurance Companies, Wells Fargo Insurance Services, and award sponsors OhioHealth and Oxford Consulting.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber provides connections, resources and solutions to help businesses thrive. Founded nearly 130 years ago, the Columbus Chamber has evolved to become the largest business services organization and primary advocate for the Columbus Region business community. Leveraging a customized, consultative approach to support members that range from small businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, the Columbus Chamber is helping to grow the Columbus Region economy one business at a time. For more information visit columbus.org. -
Press Release
August 22, 2012
AEP Energy Selected as New Savings Partner
Announcement:
The Columbus Chamber has selected AEP Energy as its new electric generation savings partner.
"At the Columbus Chamber, we are always striving to connect our members with new resources and solutions to accelerate their businesses," said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. "One of the ways we do that is through our portfolio of savings programs." A subsidiary of American Electric Power, AEP Energy is a competitive retail electric service provider that can help reduce your business’ overhead costs by offering market-based electricity rates. By choosing AEP Energy as its electricity provider, a business will receive the same electricity service and ultimately lower generation and distribution charges – saving money. AEP Energy representatives will work with the Chamber Member Services team to help answer your questions, and the Chamber and AEP Energy plan to offer on-going program education. For more information on the program, visit columbus.org/membership/savings-opportunities/save-on-electricity Interested organizations are invited to attend a live webinar on Wednesday, September 26 at 10 a.m. to hear more about this program’s benefits. Online registration will be available at columbus.org/events. The Columbus Chamber made this partner selection after issuing a Request for Proposal and carefully reviewing options. -
Press Release
August 15, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces the Region's Top Industries for Job Growth
Key sectors include logistics, retail
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today announced its list of top industries for job growth in the Columbus Region, backed with data from Columbus 2020’s most recent quarterly update. The update contains regional economic analysis from Regionomics™ LLC.
“Watching these industries consistently outperform state and U.S. levels proves that the Columbus Region is a leader in the ongoing employment recovery, and a good indication of future job growth,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “These key sectors should be on the radar screen of job seekers, ranging from veteran employees to new graduates.” Based on the most recent quarterly report, and insight from research director Jung Kim, the Chamber identified the following industries as standouts: - Logistics. Recording employment growth of 1.2 percent in the last quarter, and with consistent growth over the past few years, logistics continues to be one of the region’s top performing industries. Strategically located within a day’s drive of 50 percent of the U.S. and Canadian population, Columbus Region developments like the Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal have solidified the region’s role as a logistics hub. - Leisure & hospitality. This sector saw a 4.8 percent boost in employment just in the last quarter, which is only expected to continue with new developments like the Hilton Columbus Downtown and the Hollywood Casino slated to open later this year. The types of companies in the leisure and hospitality sector range from tourism attractions to food service operations. - Healthcare. Home to nationally ranked hospital systems including OhioHealth and Mount Carmel, the Columbus Region has established a strong reputation as a medical destination – both for patients and job seekers. The sector saw a 0.9 percent employment increase in the last quarter, and recent expansions at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center are expected to reinforce this upward trend. - Retail. Even during a typically slower, non-holiday sales cycle, employment in the Columbus Region’s retail sector in grew an impressive 2.2 percent in the second quarter – contributing 2,100 jobs to the regional workforce. This growth can be attributed in part to continued strength in areas such as Easton, Polaris, and Reynoldsburg’s Route 256 corridor, as well as an overall recovery for the Columbus Region from the retail employment losses of the past decade. Developers are recognizing opportunities such as the revitalization of Worthington Square Mall, applying newer retail concepts that focus on experience and sense of place. - Finance & insurance. Despite slight overall employment decreases over the last two quarters, this sector has been a long-term staple in the Columbus Region, anchored by major employers like JPMorgan Chase and Nationwide Insurance. These powerhouse companies continue to experience consistent growth, allowing the region to swim against the tide of national industry trends. About the Columbus Chamber The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
August 08, 2012
Urban Meyer to Deliver Keynote Address at Columbus Chamber's 2013 Annual Meeting
Pre-sale tickets available now for February 5, 2013 event
Columbus, OH – With Buckeye football season kick-off just around the corner, the Columbus Chamber has announced that Urban Meyer, the new head football coach at The Ohio State University, will deliver the keynote address at its 2013 Annual Meeting. The event will take place 7:30 – 9 a.m., February 5, 2013 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center’s Battelle Grand.
Pre-sale tickets with 2012 pricing are available now via columbus.org/annualmeeting. The cost is $75 for Chamber members and $95 for non-members, with admission to the morning event including a full breakfast and networking with more than 1,000 Columbus Region business leaders – in addition to hearing Meyer and other regional officials’ presentations. Meyer, who accepted the head coaching position at Ohio State in November 2011, will focus his keynote address on replicating success and attracting talent. Having spent the last 20 years coaching successful football programs at schools including the University of Florida and the University of Utah, Meyer has made a career out of securing top athletes to help lead his teams to victories. Meyer himself was a highly sought-after candidate for Ohio State’s vacant coaching position. An Ohio native, he returned to the Buckeye state after sitting out a year to devote time to his family – wife Shelley, college-age daughters Nicole and Gisele and 13-year-old son Nathan – and to work as an analyst for ESPN. “Securing one of the nation’s top football coaches to talk about the importance of talent attraction is a natural fit for the Columbus Chamber Annual Meeting,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO. “People are our most valuable resource, and a business’ success is driven by the talent and quality of its workforce. Coach Meyer can share valuable insights on how leaders can build a highly-performing team.” The 2013 Columbus Chamber Annual Meeting is presented by State Auto Insurance Companies. For more details or to order pre-sale tickets to the Chamber’s 2013 Annual Meeting, visit columbus.org/annualmeeting. Special pricing will be available until Dec. 31, 2012. -
Press Release
August 01, 2012
Chamber Encouraging Participation in Champions of Democracy Program
An announcement from the Columbus Chamber Government Relations team:
The Franklin County Board of Elections is reaching out to the corporate community to find enthusiastic, detail-oriented associates who are active in their community and would be willing to serve as poll workers in the upcoming November election. We here at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce have met with officials from the Franklin County BOE and we want to encourage our corporate members to consider participating in the Champions of Democracy program. We agree that the best way to help our democratic process (in addition to voting) is to serve as a poll worker on Election Day.
Through the Champions of Democracy program that was established in 2004, The Board of Elections has recruited and trained hundreds of poll workers from companies such as AEP, Nationwide, and The Ohio State University. Some organizations have provided paid leave while others require employees to take vacation or other leave time to participate. There is no cost associated with participating and each poll worker receives compensation from Franklin County (at least $148 for training and Election Day services). Each Champion of Democracy organization will be recognized in a Columbus Dispatch ad following the election. Here’s how the program works:- Your organization provides a minimum of 15 employees to serve on Election Day (11/6/2012)
- The Board of Elections (BOE) will dedicate a day to visit your location, set up a display to promote Champions of Democracy and help recruit your associates for the program, as well as give them the opportunity to register to vote in November’s election
- The BOE will provide you with pre-printed posters and flyers to promote Champions of Democracy
- At a later date, the BOE will hold a 3-hr. training class at your location to teach your employees election procedures to ensure that they are fully prepared to serve
- The BOE staff will be available to assist you throughout the entire process
- Be a U.S. Citizen and a registered Franklin County voter
- Have transportation to the polls
- Work from 5:30 AM to at least 8:00 PM on Election Day
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Press Release
July 11, 2012
Columbus Chamber Releases Mid-Year Update of 2012 Public Policy Agenda Goals
Progress includes testifying, advocating in support of key legislative issues
Columbus, OH – Following the release of its 2012 Public Policy Agenda in January, the Columbus Chamber today announced a mid-year update of its progress against advocacy goals. Meant to serve as an evolving document, the Public Policy Agenda identifies key issues and Chamber initiatives that align with each.
“Addressing government-business challenges and developing solutions for our business members is vital to the Chamber’s mission, and the primary motivation behind creating the Public Policy Agenda,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Just halfway through the year, we’re proud to show significant progress in resolving the issues our members identified. With this momentum, we’ll continue to move forward and evolve the agenda throughout 2012.” Compiled with input from the Chamber’s 2,000 members and expertise from the organization’s Government Affairs Steering Committee, the 2012 Public Policy Agenda focuses on local, state and federal regulatory and reform projects that directly impact businesses in the Columbus Region. Progress achieved since the document’s initial release in January includes: - Zoning, permitting and customer service. Surveying of various stakeholders, including Chamber members, on the City of Columbus’ Permitting, Customer Service, and Zoning processes, leading to the Chamber’s participation in Columbus City Council’s Small Business Roundtable to evaluate policies, programs and assistance the city can provide to the small business community. - Clarification of taxation issues. By joining the Municipal Income Tax Uniformity Coalition and collaborating with local legislators, the Chamber worked to encourage the House Ways and Means Committee to conduct a series of hearings allowing Ohio small business owners and others to share concerns with the municipal income tax system in the state. Through its participation in the Central Ohio Regional Shared Services Steering Committee (CORSSSC), the Chamber is also providing local governments with the tools to apply for the state’s Local Government Innovation Funds – more than $6 million of which have been awarded to date. - Boosting economic development. Working through the Columbus Chamber’s Government Relations team, proponent testimony was provided by Kenny McDonald, CEO Columbus 2020, to assist in the passage of HB 436/SiteOhio Certification Program to certify and market eligible commercial, industrial, and manufacturing sites and facilities, as well as SB 314/DSA JobsOhio 2 to establish a pilot program to test a new concept for the state’s travel and tourism marketing. Additionally, the Chamber advocated on behalf of SB 294/Ohio EPA Omnibus Regulations Reform to boost economic development while maintaining environmental regulations. - Workforce development. Andrea Applegate, director of workforce development for the Chamber and Columbus 2020, testified before the Senate Education Committee on the workforce development portion of SB 316/Education/Workforce MBR, giving workers and employers more opportunity to receive training. - Energy development. The Chamber’s Government Relations team advocated on behalf of SB 315/Energy MBR, which creates a complete energy policy for Ohio – addressing energy industry sectors including shale, CNG, coal and renewable energy. Issues added to the Public Policy Agenda since January and now achieving progress include: - Education reform. The Chamber advocated in support of HB 525/Cleveland School Plan to revise the management of municipal school districts and community schools located within municipal school districts, permit the establishment of a Municipal School District Transformation Alliance, and authorize municipal school districts to levy property taxes to share with partnering community schools. In addition, Dalby, along with Chamber Board Member Alex Fischer of The Columbus Partnership and representatives of other Chamber-member businesses, participated in the Columbus City Schools Millage Committee. This group is leading the effort to challenge the CCS leadership to develop stronger programming and metrics before going back to the voters. - Other legislative support. Per the request of members in the scrap metal industry, the Chamber sent a letter of support for SB 193/Scrap Metal and Bulk Merchandise Dealers and directly advocated in support of this bill, which makes changes to the law governing scrap metal dealers and bulk merchandise dealers, including strengthening and maintaining databases and records of transactions. Visit Columbus.org for more information and resources regarding the Chamber’s advocacy initiatives, including events, Government Affairs Steering Committee members and the Columbus Chamber Prosperity Project. A full version of the Chamber’s updated 2012 Public Policy Agenda is available here. -
Press Release
June 28, 2012
Columbus Chamber Statement Regarding the Affordable Care Act
Statement from Michael Dalby, President & CEO, Columbus Chamber:
Today the Supreme Court of the United States announced its decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act. The financial requirements instituted by this act will create a tremendous financial impact on businesses as they attempt to plan for future growth and expansion.
Healthcare consistently ranks as one of the top concerns for our businesses, both in terms of cost and complexity. Choosing healthcare plans for employees and dealing with cost increases has vexed business owners and managers for years and seriously impacts entrepreneurship. For our economy to thrive, we need to find solutions that stop the meteoric rise in premiums, make purchasing and using health benefits less complicated and provide some long-term consistency in approach. Our workforce is our most important asset, and we need healthcare solutions that encourage and reward wellness, take care of the most vulnerable and spread costs so that affordable care is truly available to all. Moving forward, the Columbus Chamber will work with its partners to help communicate the effects of the ACA to our region’s businesses and inform them of the next steps. This Friday, June 29 at 1 p.m., Chamber partner Wells Fargo will present a webinar that will discuss the impact of the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision concerning the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Learn how employers and employees will be affected. The webinar will be recorded for future playback, but to listen to the live webinar register now. -
Press Release
June 20, 2012
Columbus Region Receives Federal Funds to Expand Rickenbacker Intermodal Facility, Complete East-West Connector
Columbus, OH -- New federal resources will expand the Rickenbacker Intermodal Facility, creating jobs and opening Columbus Region companies to new markets. U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced a $16 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to complete the Pickaway East-West Connector Project, improving the roadways around the intermodal facility and linking the facility to U.S. Route 23, Interstate 270, and Interstate 71. The Columbus Chamber and its Columbus Region Logistics Council supported the Columbus Regional Airport Authority’s application for the federal grant for the East-West Connector Project.
“The logistics industry is a major driver in the Columbus Region economy, and the Rickenbacker Inland Port is critical to local, national, and international markets as a logistics and distribution hub,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “The Pickaway East-West Connector project will create jobs, improve freight efficiency, and promote economic development. And this federal funding will be an important investment in the region’s continued economic development and economic future.” A group organized by the Columbus Chamber and the Columbus Partnership joined forces to compile a list of priorities for federal legislators, and the Chamber had identified the Pickaway East-West Connector Project as the top infrastructure priority in its public policy agenda. Advocacy is a major service of the Chamber, and its government relations staff grew from one to four in the last year to bolster outreach efforts on behalf of the Columbus Region business community. Rickenbacker is a high-speed international, intermodal logistics hub with an unparalleled location. It offers one of the world’s only cargo-dedicated airports, the industry’s top trucking companies and is connected to all major East and West Coast rail providers and major ocean ports. Over half the U.S. and Canadian populations and over 60 percent of the U.S. manufacturing base is within a one-day drive. Central Ohio’s distribution activities serve a broad market area and handle commerce, both importing and exporting, from the region and nation. The East-West Connector will:- Expand multi-modal (truck, rail, and air) infrastructure capacity and increase intermodal freight efficiency
- Create jobs through construction and business expansion and promote continued future public and private investment in the region’s logistics infrastructure
- Enable the Columbus Region to achieve greater competitiveness in the global economy
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Press Release
May 22, 2012
Columbus Chamber Survey: 75 Percent of Small Businesses Plan to Hire in the Next Year
Columbus, OH (May 22, 2012) – Approximately 75 percent of small businesses in the Columbus Region plan to add to their staffs in the next year, according to a recent, brief survey conducted by the Columbus Chamber. This is promising news, as National Small Business Week (May 20-26) kicks off, celebrating companies with fewer than 500 full-time employees.
“Small businesses are a major force in the Columbus Region’s economic development, accounting for the majority of companies located here and nearly half of employment in the region,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “It’s beneficial to hear directly from these businesses about their challenges and opportunities, so we can better assist them and help them grow.” In the Columbus Region, small businesses represent 94 percent of all companies and 42 percent of total employment. Results of the Chamber’s survey indicate: - Of the 75 percent planning to add to their staffs in the next year, half of businesses surveyed plan to hire between 1 and 5 employees – still significant growth considering the size and scope of small businesses in the region. - Businesses cited various factors having a positive impact on their success in the region, including a central location/market access (38.2 percent), stable economy (32.4 percent) and low cost of doing business (28 percent). - Cost and availability of health insurance was the primary challenge mentioned by the companies surveyed, with 31.7 percent of respondents ranking it “most impactful.” Local and national economic factors followed close behind, ranking 28.8 and 27.2 percent, respectively. - Although small businesses are classified as those with fewer than 500 full-time employees, approximately 80 percent of businesses surveyed have fewer than 50 employees. Thirty percent have staffs of four or less. The Columbus Chamber is small business focused. Ninety percent of the Chamber’s nearly 2,000 members are small businesses, and no other local organization is as deeply connected to this group as the Chamber. Each year, the Chamber staff conducts more than 1,000 one-on-one consultative meetings with businesses—most of which fell into the category of 500 or fewer employees. Opportunities and concerns that have come to light during these discussions mirror the results of the survey. “Whether it is through surveys, other research, one-on-one connections, or events, the Columbus Chamber keeps its finger on the pulse of small business. And we continually evolve our programs and services to better serve them,” Dalby said. The Chamber provides small businesses with connections to resources like access to capital, advisory boards and business plan development to encourage small business growth. For example, the Chamber’s Small Business Council plays a key role in ensuring that small businesses have a big voice in the region. And through the Chamber’s new Entrepreneur Program, start-ups are paired with a personal consultant from the Chamber team. DiversityBridge.com is a central, interactive website that provides access to resources and opportunities for women- and minority-owned businesses. For more information on the Columbus Chamber and its resources for small business, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
May 16, 2012
Franklin County Commissioners, Columbus Chamber Unveil 2012 Franklin County Retail Report
Comprehensive report contains data including employment, real estate changes
Columbus, OH (May 16, 2012) - The retail sector is in the midst of major shifts in demographics, the way people shop, and the distribution and storage of retail goods, according to the 2012 Franklin County Retail Report. These national trends and data specific to the Columbus Region's retail sector landscape were among the findings released today by the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the Columbus Chamber.
Within Franklin County, the report showed retail employment growth in zip codes that have undergone major retail development projects in the past few years, such as Reynoldsburg's Route 256 corridor and the Easton area. Other positive news included lower-than-average retail vacancy and rental rates in Franklin County, and a younger consumer demographic with higher than average spending potential. "This annual retail report can be an incredibly useful tool for our region's business leaders and our government partners to understand the potential for growth and investment in the retail sector," said Franklin County Commissioner President Paula Brooks. "This report reveals national factors and trends affecting the retail sector in Franklin County - including the boom of online shopping - and having this data gives our local businesses the ability to turn challenge into opportunity. It can be a guidepost for helping local retailers 'find the future first' and inspire new innovations in shopping, dining, and retail job creation."
Jung Kim, the Columbus Chamber's research director, included the following highlights in the 2012 Franklin County Retail Report:
- Although Franklin County as a whole saw a retail employment decline of 28 percent between 2001 and 2010, some areas within the county - such as Reynoldsburg and the Easton area - experienced growth. Additionally, restaurant and bar employment in Franklin County has remained steady, increasing 1.4 percent in the same time period.
- Franklin County revenue from sales taxes on the retail, food, and accommodations sectors decreased 31 percent from $130.5 million in 2006 to $89.9 million in 2010 - primarily due to a 0.25 percent sales tax increase for COTA. The taxable retail spending base decreased 8 percent during the same period. However, the following retail trade categories saw increases, ranging from 4 to 16 percent, in the taxable base from 2006 to 2010: food and beverage stores, gasoline stations, clothing stores, and food services.
- Since a peak of 13.2 percent in the second quarter of 2009, the retail vacancy rate in the area comprising Franklin County and the adjacent six counties has steadily decreased to 11 percent in the fourth quarter of 2011. According to research from Marcus & Millichap, the Columbus market could see the retail vacancy rate fall to 10.2 percent in 2012, a five-year low.
- From 2000 to 2011, online sales in the U.S. grew more than 19 percent annually, compared to less than 3 percent for physical, bricks-and-mortar retail sales. Analysts forecast that e-commerce will only continue to grow in the near future, from an estimate of $176 billion in 2010 to $296 billion in 2016 - with mobile sales and social-media-based e-commerce being major drivers. The challenges for the Franklin County retail market, in particular, include lost sales tax revenue from online retailer and consumer non-compliance.
- The top ten Tapestry segments, or categories used to understand the lifestyles and life-stages of consumers, differ significantly in Franklin County from those of the U.S. overall. The county's top three segments - enterprising families, aspiring young families, and up and coming families - correlates with higher than average spending potential in categories like video game hardware and software, pets, and school books and supplies.
"It's encouraging to see promising news like a steady restaurant and bar employment rate and decreasing retail vacancy rate come out of this report," said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. "Those factors, combined with the consumer insights uncovered, should help to inform retailers' efforts to grow and expand in the Columbus Region."
A full version of the 2012 Franklin County Retail Report is available here.
The report was unveiled today at the 2012 Franklin County Retail Summit, which included insight from Yaromir Steiner, founder and CEO of Steiner + Associates and one of the country's top developers. The event also featured a marketing trends panel discussion, with various local retail and marketing industry executives identifying the region's opportunities and challenges.
About Franklin County
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners has established the Economic Development and Planning Department to promote organized growth supported by the principles of environmental responsibility, progressive land use, planning, social equity and economic vitality.
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
April 11, 2012
Request for Proposal: Electric Savings Program for Chamber Members
The Columbus Chamber offers an extensive portfolio of money-saving programs for its members. When combined, Chamber benefits can save businesses thousands of dollars a year on necessary expenses.
To further enhance its savings program offerings, the Columbus Chamber is currently soliciting bids for the electric generation savings program. Responding business must be a Columbus Chamber member in good standing, at the Elite Connect level or higher. The term is 12 months with one-year renewals. Minimum Partner Requirements
The Partner must be a Competitive Retail Electric Supplier (CRES) or broker of CRES. The Partner must provide: - Commission of $x per k when enrolled on Affinity Partners’ program. - Commissions equal to x% of the gross DSM Project revenue (energy efficiency projects). - Electricity-related news and information to reduce businesses’ energy usage. - Marketing or sponsorship dollars to support promotion of electricity program. - Regular monthly enrollee and non-enrollee reports. - Regular monthly usage reports. - Online portal for member enrollment and usage reports. Please include the above information in your proposal, as well as specifying dollar amounts in items No. 1 and No. 4 and a specific percentage in item No. 2. The roles and responsibility of the Chamber will be outlined in an executive service agreement. Proposals must be received by May 1. For more information about this request, contact Jay Scott at (614) 225.6901 or jay_scott@columbus.org. -
Press Release
April 10, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces Support for Income Tax Cut Plan
Columbus, OH (April 10, 2012) – Today the Executive Committee of the Columbus Chamber voted to support the income tax cut plan proposed by Gov. John Kasich. The committee took this action under the recommendation of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Steering Committee’s Legislative Advisory Council, with input from the Small Business Council.
“We frequently hear from Columbus Chamber members about the need to improve Ohio’s economic competitiveness relative to the current tax structure. A strategy to reduce income taxes would encourage additional job creation and capital investment,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Gov. Kasich’s plan puts a legitimate option on the table that deserves discussion and consideration.”The Columbus Chamber supports the effort to create a tax environment that would be fair and reasonable for Ohio’s businesses and welcoming to those considering locating and expanding in the state and region. Due to the proposal’s impact on small business, the Chamber solicited input from its Small Business Council. “Over the years, the Chamber’s Small Business Council has had numerous discussions on Ohio’s tax structure and its negative impact on business growth,” said Jeffrey Logan, chairman, Columbus Chamber Small Business Council. “Most small businesses are S Corporations, which means business income is taxed as personal income. Any effort to reduce Ohio’s income tax directly translates into business investment, so I applaud the proposal.” Small businesses typically operate on tight margins, and reducing taxes allows for business growth, business investment and leads to job creation. Feedback from Chamber members and other businesses indicates Ohio’s current income tax rates negatively impact small business creation and growth. The Columbus Chamber represents approximately 2,000 businesses in the Columbus Region and serves as a primary advocate for a business-friendly environment. The advocacy role of the Chamber centers on educating members, building relationships and creating a capital program for the Central Ohio business community. A Public Policy Agenda, a rolling agenda, guides the Chamber’s public policy actions. For more information on the Columbus Chamber’s advocacy efforts, visit http://www.columbus.org/initiatives/advocacy/.###
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Press Release
April 04, 2012
Stivers to Deliver Keynote Address at Columbus Chamber Government Day
Columbus, OH (May 4, 2012) – Advocacy, engagement and connections will be the focus of the Columbus Chamber’s annual Government Day, which will be held Friday, April 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, 50 N. Fourth Street.
“The Columbus Chamber is here to advocate for the needs of this region’s businesses and help them be more successful,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Government Day gives us an opportunity to re-energize and elevate our government relations program by connecting businesses and public officials and providing a forum for them to engage on business-critical issues.” Special guest Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman will address attendees during the morning session, and U.S. Congressman Steve Stivers from Ohio's 15th district will serve as the keynote speaker during the luncheon portion of the event. He will discuss “Energy Independence for America.” In addition to the morning and luncheon general sessions, Government Day will also feature two sessions of roundtables, which will allow participants to examine and deliberate topics including: - Education - Local Regulation Reforms - Municipal Taxation Uniformity - Shale, Gas and Energy - Workers' Compensation - Workforce Development Registration for Columbus Chamber Government Day is $50 (or $400 for a table of eight), with admission including networking, two roundtable sessions and the luncheon/keynote presentation. Visit Columbus.org/events to register. Columbus Chamber Government Day is presented by Columbia Gas of Ohio in partnership with Nationwide, Ice Miller LLP, Cassidy Turley Commercial Real Estate Services, Paul Werth Associates, AT&T, AXIA Consulting, Huntington Bank and OhioHealth. -
Press Release
March 14, 2012
Columbus Chamber to Host Ohio Edison Technology Centers Showcase & Manufacturers Forum
Columbus, OH (March 14, 2012) – Aligning with the Columbus Region’s steadily growing manufacturing industry, the Columbus Chamber has announced it will host the Ohio Edison Technology Centers Showcase & Manufacturers Forum from 9 to 11 a.m. March 23. The free event will take place at Edison Welding Institute Inc. (EWI), 1250 Arthur E. Adams Drive in Columbus.
Geared toward audiences including manufacturing business executives, economic development practitioners and elected officials, the event will focus on the resources available to manufacturing companies through the seven Ohio Edison Technology Centers. This statewide consortium was formed to help manufacturing companies reduce costs, increase production, quality and innovation, and ultimately increase sales and profit. “Manufacturing is a driving industry in the Columbus Region’s existing business community, evidenced by steady growth in 2011 – which often outpaced state and national performance,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “This event will bring together the right resources to ensure the region’s manufacturing companies have the right tools to continue to grow and expand.” The Ohio Edison Technology Centers provide a variety of product and process innovation and commercialization services – ranging from new product design to process improvement and workforce development – to both established and early-stage manufacturing and technology-based businesses. In addition to the EWI, centers in the Columbus Region include BioOhio, focused on promoting Ohio’s bio-life sciences industry, and PolymerOhio, committed to the global competitiveness and growth of Ohio's polymer industry. For more information or to register for the Ohio Edison Technology Centers Showcase & Manufacturers Forum, visit www.columbus.org/events.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
March 13, 2012
Columbus Chamber Survey: 80 Percent of Regional Logistics Company Respondents Surveyed Plan to Hire in 2012
Positive news coincides with Logistics Job Fair planned for March 20
Columbus, OH (March 13, 2012) – The employment outlook is strong for the logistics industry in the Columbus Region, according to a recent survey conducted by the Columbus Chamber’s Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC). Eighty percent of the respondents surveyed plan to hire additional logistics staff in 2012, coinciding with the organization’s spring Logistics Job Fair.
The positive hiring outlook from businesses comes after the Columbus Region’s fourth quarter update showed that employment in the distribution industry – including transportation, warehousing, and wholesale – grew 2.6 percent (2,000 jobs) in late 2011 versus gains of 1.5 percent and 0.8 percent at the state and national levels. “It’s obvious that the logistics industry is a major driver in the Columbus Region economy, and all evidence suggests that it will keep up the positive momentum in 2012 and beyond,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Making the connection between job seekers and a growing industry gets to the core of the service-based offerings the Chamber provides existing businesses to facilitate expansion. The more the logistics industry succeeds, the more jobs will be available.” Key findings of this year’s survey included: - In addition to 80 percent of respondents surveyed planning to hire logistics staff in 2012, 78 percent of those respondents also added to their rosters in 2011 – showing a steady pattern of growth. - More than half of the respondents planning to hire logistics staff in 2012 will add more than 10 employees. - More than 65 percent of respondents specified a strong customer base as a key driver of growth in the region, likely due to central Ohio’s prime position between major hubs like the East Coast and Chicago. Thirty-five percent of respondents cited the region’s recovering economy. - More than half of respondents see the creation of additional job functions as a primary growth opportunity for logistics professionals in the next five years. - Nearly 25 percent of those surveyed plan to make job offers at the March 20 Logistics Job Fair, while the remaining respondents plan to use the event as an opportunity to screen candidates for potential opportunities. The CRLC conducted the survey in advance of its spring job fair, scheduled for 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 20 at Columbus State Community College’s Center for Workforce Development, 315 Cleveland Ave., 4th floor. More than 30 companies – including Cardinal Health, Limited Brands and McGraw-Hill – will be on hand to talk with potential candidates about entry-level to mid-management/leadership opportunities in areas including operations management, facilities management and maintenance, business development and customer service. Admission and parking are free for job seekers and exhibitors. Job seekers should bring copies of their resume and a list of references. For more information on the job fair, visit columbus.org/logisticsjobfair.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
March 06, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces April Events
Columbus, OH (March 6, 2012) - The Columbus Chamber’s April events include:
Webinar: General Financing Options for Small and Emerging Businesses
Tuesday, April 10 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. As part of the Columbus Chamber’s new Smart Edge Professional Development Webinar Series, this session will be lead by Thomas Washbush and Ted Motheral of Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff, LLP and will focus on available financing options for small businesses and how those options can be used to raise capital. The webinar is free for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. Register at www.columbus.org/events. Chamber Government Day Friday, April 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel, 50 N. Third St. Government Day brings Chamber members and government officials together for education and dialogue around timely issues. This program features facilitated roundtable sessions – focusing on topics ranging from municipal taxation, shale gas and energy and workers’ compensation – where businesses can learn about and voice their opinions on important topics, as well as a luncheon program with a keynote speaker. Tickets are available for $50. Register at www.columbus.org/events. To view the entire schedule of upcoming Columbus Chamber events, visit www.columbus.org/events. For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
March 05, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces Additions to its Small Business Council
Columbus, OH (March 5, 2012) – The Columbus Chamber has announced the addition of six business owners to its Small Business Council, which consists of 24 small business experts who evaluate and provide counsel regarding issues impacting small business in the Columbus Region. In the past, the council has reviewed issues ranging from healthcare to transportation.
“Small businesses represent approximately 90 percent of our membership, so it’s vital to have access to and feedback from this key group of small business owners on an ongoing basis,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “The presence of the Small Business Council proves that small business has a big voice within the Columbus Region, and the addition of new members showcases the importance of bringing a fresh perspective to small business issues.” This year’s additions, who come from backgrounds ranging from online media to finance and logistics, include: - Chris Bascom-Adams, president, Bascom & Adams Business Solutions - Otto Beatty, III, co-owner, E.E. Ward/North American Van Lines - Walker Evans, co-owner, The Metropreneur - James B. Lane, director, GBQ Redbank Advisors - Chip Quarrier, executive director, Hollingsworth Logistics Group - Jeffrey A. Yeager, Esq., partner, Hahn Loeser & Parks, LLC Nominations for positions on the Small Business Council are received on an annual basis, usually in November and December. For more information on the Small Business Council, contact Somers Martin at 614.225.6919 or somers_martin@columbus.org.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
February 22, 2012
Columbus Chamber Annual Meeting Highlights Emphasis on Existing Businesses
Chamber showcases its new brand, service-based approach to membership
Columbus, OH (Feb. 21, 2012) – More than 1,100 Columbus Region business and community leaders attended the Columbus Chamber’s 2012 Annual Meeting, today at the Greater Columbus Convention Center’s Battelle Grand. The theme of the event was “it starts with us” – emphasizing the organization’s intensified commitment to strengthening businesses in the Columbus Region. “We’re proud to unveil a ‘new’ Columbus Chamber, from a completely new brand to a reemphasized, service-based approach to member businesses seeking to grow and thrive in the Columbus Region,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. “Our first priority is to provide businesses the resources they need to be successful, and the Annual Meeting was a good kick-off to another year of that commitment.” Delivering the keynote address, Nancy Kramer, founder and chairman of Resource Interactive, discussed how the stability and growth of the Columbus Region has aided in the success of her business. Founded in the region more than 30 years ago, Resource Interactive has grown into an award-winning, nationally recognized agency – claiming Apple as its first client and coordinating the first-ever fully integrated social commerce experience at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Columbus Award Also at today’s Annual Meeting, the Chamber announced the 2012 recipient of its Columbus Award, which recognizes outstanding business and community leadership. John P. McConnell, chairman and CEO of Worthington Industries, was bestowed the honor. “I respect John as a businessman, a family man, and as someone who has demonstrated a true commitment to giving back to his community,” said Jack Partridge, president of Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc. and immediate past chairman of the Chamber’s board of directors. “He and his family have made an immeasurable impact on Columbus.” McConnell, who started as a general laborer in a Kentucky steel plant, later rose through the ranks at Worthington Industries under the guidance of his late father, John H. McConnell. Under John’s leadership, the company has continued to strengthen and grow, adding seven acquisitions and 2,250 employees in the past two years – totaling more than 9,500 employees worldwide. In the community, McConnell serves as chairman of the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation, which has awarded since its inception more than $3.5 million in community grants focusing on pediatric cancer, education, children’s health and safety, and the development of youth hockey. As part of the honor, McConnell received a piece of artwork designed and created by Dawson Kellogg, an associate professor of fine arts and graduate studies Columbus College of Art and Design. Board of Directors elections As part of the Annual Meeting, the following members were elected to serve on the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors: - Lisa Ingram, COO of White Castle Systems Inc. - Michelle Kerr, president of Oxford Consulting - Jeff Sopp, president & CEO of Expesite - Pam Springer, president & CEO of Manta - Keith Stevens, president of Proteam Solutions - Vinson Yates, president of Grant Medical Center The Columbus Chamber 2012 Annual Meeting was presented in partnership with State Auto Insurance Companies along with the City of Columbus and Columbus State Community College. Additional support was provided by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Bartha, CareWorks, CareWorks Consultants, Inc., Cassidy Turley Commercial Real Estate Services, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Columbus C.E.O. Magazine, Fathom, Integrys Energy Services, Oxford Consulting, Proteam Solutions and Steptoe and Johnson.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
February 09, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces Upcoming Events
Columbus, OH (Feb. 9, 2012) – The Columbus Chamber’s upcoming events include:
Webinar: Is it Time to Transform Your Marketing Plan? Tuesday, March 13 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. As part of the Columbus Chamber’s new Smart Edge Professional Development Webinar Series, this session will be lead by Christine Adams, Bascom & Adams Business Solutions, LLC and will focus on creating the Marketing Action Plan (MAP) – a company’s roadmap to success. The webinar is free for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. Register at www.columbus.org. Logistics Job Fair Tuesday, March 20 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Columbus State Community College’s Center for Workforce Development, 315 Cleveland Ave. The logistics sector is an economic driver in the central Ohio region, and this job fair, organized by the Columbus Region Logistics Council and the Columbus Chamber, will highlight entry-level to mid-management/leadership opportunities in this growing industry. More than 25 employers are slated to exhibit, and attendees should bring resumes. There is no cost to attend or exhibit at the job fair. To view the entire schedule of upcoming Columbus Chamber events, visit www.columbus.org/events. For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
February 08, 2012
Chamber Announces Director of Columbus Region Logistics Council
Columbus, OH (Feb. 8, 2012) – The Columbus Chamber announces the appointment of Jeff Zimmerman as Director of the Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC), an initiative of the Columbus Chamber and industry-led group which serves as the catalyst for the growth of the region’s logistics capability.
Zimmerman will drive the CRLC’s efforts, serving as the industry’s chief advocate and focusing on the strategic areas of infrastructure, workforce and education, technology and business environment. He comes to the CRLC with extensive business development experience and a proven track record as a business executive with Boise Cascade and later with Office Max. “Our region’s logistics industry is at a pivotal point, as we build upon our strong foundation and work together to take Columbus to the next level,” said John Ness, owner/president of ODW Logistics, and chair of the Columbus Region Logistics Council. “I have no doubt that Jeff will be a great addition to the CRLC. His commitment to investing in this industry, as well as his professionalism, will greatly benefit our mission.” Presently, more than 80 firms are council members, including third-party logistics providers, companies, professional services firms and educational institutions. “I am excited to join the Chamber in support of the Columbus Region Logistics Council to ensure Columbus offers a world-class logistics infrastructure that creates a significant cost and service advantage for logistics operations in the Columbus Region,” said Zimmerman. “I hope to use my experience to help grow CRLC membership, foster member engagement and ensure that meetings and events are useful and reflect the importance of the region’s logistics industry.”Zimmerman became a certified logistics associate at Columbus State Community College and earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at the State University College at Buffalo in New York. He also sits on the board of directors for the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio and is a graduate of Leadership Columbus.
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About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 31, 2012
Columbus Chamber Announces 2012 Annual Meeting, Keynote Speaker
Columbus, OH (Jan. 23, 2012) – The Columbus Chamber has announced its 2012 Annual Meeting will take place February 22 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center’s Battelle Grand. Full breakfast and networking kick off at 7:30 a.m., with the program running from 8 to 9 a.m.
The theme of the meeting will be “it starts with us” – emphasizing the organization’s intensified commitment to strengthening businesses in the Columbus Region. “This is a new Columbus Chamber. Think of us as a connector or navigator helping to accelerate business,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. “Our Annual Meeting will be a vibrant celebration, officially launching our new brand, new service-based approach to membership and new resources to help businesses thrive.” Nancy Kramer, founder and chairman of Resource Interactive, will deliver the meeting’s keynote address. “As we considered our theme, ‘it starts with us,’ we knew it was integral for our keynote speaker to be from right here in Central Ohio. Nancy Kramer represents one of the region’s greatest business successes, and we look forward to hearing her inspirations and insights,” Dalby said. Kramer has built Resource Interactive into an award-winning, nationally recognized agency – both for its creative work and its unique culture. Her marketing experience and impact coincide with great moments in technology marketing history, from Apple as the agency’s first client to the first live streaming of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show to the launch of Off The Wall – the first-ever fully integrated social commerce experience. Additionally, “Historic Columbus – A Bicentennial History” – a commemorative history book showcasing Columbus’ past two centuries, in honor of the city’s bicentennial celebration – will be sold on-site at the Annual Meeting. Author and local historian Ed Lentz will be signing copies of the book, which retails for $49.95. Tickets for this year’s Annual Meeting are $75 for individuals or $750 for a table of 10 (Columbus Chamber members) and $90 for individuals or $900 for a table of 10 (non members). Those interested in attending can register by visiting www.Columbus.org/annualmeeting and clicking on the “registration” tab under the event description.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 23, 2012
Columbus Chamber Releases 2012 Public Policy Agenda
Columbus, OH (Jan. 9, 2012) – The Columbus Chamber today announced the release of its 2012 Public Policy Agenda, which addresses immediate advocacy challenges and goals for its member businesses with a stake in local, state and/or federal government issues. The agenda serves as an evolving document, meant to identify key issues and planned Chamber initiatives that align with each.
“Advocacy is a vital part of the Columbus Chamber’s mission, with our main objectives to educate our members on key government issues, build relationships between our members and legislators, and create capital for the region’s business community,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “The Public Policy Agenda helps us to stay on top of immediate needs and track progress in finding solutions to each challenge.” The Public Policy Agenda is compiled with input from the Chamber’s 2,000 members and expertise from the organization’s Government Affairs Steering Committee. It is a “rolling” agenda, which will be updated as new issues and priorities come about. The initial 2012 agenda includes the following priorities: -Local regulatory issues including permitting, customer service, zoning, taxes and reforming the Columbus Stormwater Manual -Statewide reforms ranging from workers’ compensation and workforce development to energy and infrastructure investments. The state’s Ohio Medical Corridor also will be a focus in 2012. -Federal-level projects focusing on transportation and infrastructure, healthcare reform and workforce development. Visit Columbus.org for more information and resources regarding the Chamber’s advocacy initiatives, including events, Government Affairs Steering Committee members and the Columbus Chamber Prosperity Project. A full version of the Chamber’s 2012 Public Policy Agenda is available here.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 12, 2012
Columbus Chamber Offers Historic Book to Commemorate City's Bicentennial
Columbus, OH (Jan. 12, 2012) – Just in time to celebrate the city’s bicentennial, the Columbus Chamber announced that “Historic Columbus – A Bicentennial History,” a commemorative history book showcasing Columbus’ past two centuries, is available for purchase. The 200-page coffee table book, published in partnership with the city of Columbus, retails for $49.95.
“We’re proud to help celebrate the city’s rich history and showcase 200 years of business achievements that have shaped the Columbus Region into the regional economic development center it is today,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “The Chamber has been a major driver in the region since 1884, and we hope to continue our commitment to local businesses for years to come.” Written by local historian and educator, Ed Lentz, “Historic Columbus” contains hundreds of photographs, illustrations, maps and other images, many of which have never before been in print. Also included is a “Sharing The Heritage” section, chronicling the histories of many of Columbus’ leading corporations and organizations that have played a role in the development and economic strength of the city. In addition to being available at shop.200Columbus.com, the book is being sold on-site at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting Feb. 22 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center’s Battelle Grand. Lentz, who teaches Ohio history at several local colleges and universities and has studied the history of central Ohio for the past 40 years, will be signing copies of the book at the event.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
January 03, 2012
Chamber Adds Government Relations Staff, Appoints New Chair
Columbus, OH (Jan. 3, 2012) – The Columbus Chamber today announced the hiring of Kristen Easterday as director of local government relations, and the appointment of Barbara Benham, senior vice president and director of government relations for Huntington Bancshares, Inc., as chair of its government affairs steering committee.
“The addition of Easterday, who will focus specifically on local government relations, takes the Chamber’s commitment to public policy one step further by dedicating resources to cultivate local relationships and stay on top of legislative issues affecting our members,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Chamber. “We’re also proud to appoint Benham, a driving force in the region’s government relations industry, to a key position on the government affairs steering committee. Her knowledge and experience will help to educate members on issues impacting their businesses.” In her position, Easterday will advocate for business-centered economic growth policies to members of local governments and will assist Michael Hartley, vice president of government relations, with informing Chamber members of public policy issues. Easterday previously served as the executive director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture, Office of Farmland Preservation, and as the finance coordinator for Michelle M. Mills for Columbus City Council. She completed her undergraduate studies at Ohio University and earned a master’s degree in public administration at The George Washington University. As the new chair for the Chamber’s government affairs steering committee, Benham will collaborate with the 40-member committee to evaluate and provide recommendations regarding public policy issues affecting business owners in the region. Benham also will be involved in the Chamber’s annual Government Day event, which connects business leaders and policymakers to discuss issues that are important to the economic growth and development of the Columbus Region. The Chamber’s government relations initiatives are designed to support businesses and the development of the Columbus Region. In the past, the organization’s efforts have helped the region to secure millions of dollars from the federal government to improve the infrastructure at Rickenbacker, an important area for the growing logistics sector; save thousands of jobs at the Defense Supply Center Columbus; and positively affect state regulations. The Chamber facilitates dialogue between business and government leaders and connects local businesses with resources to improve their ability to do business.###
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
December 21, 2011
Columbus Chamber Announces New Webinar Series
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber will launch its new Smart Edge Professional Development Webinar Series in 2012 to provide business-critical, easy-access educational opportunities for members. The monthly sessions, which focus on a variety of small-business-focused topics, will be presented by fellow Chamber members and Chamber staff.
The webinar series is one way the Chamber is working to deliver even greater value to its members. “We’ve received positive feedback on the educational sessions available at the annual Small Business Forum, so we wanted to extend that offering with a more frequent and accessible option for members to interact and learn about key issues facing their businesses,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “By featuring industry thought leaders and sharing useful tips and tactics, these webinars will arm our members with information they can use to take their businesses to the next level.” The monthly sessions will occur at 10 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month. The first several sessions will focus on the following topics:- January 10 – “Achieving Success with an Advisory Board” presented by Mary McCarthy & Caroline Worley, Your Management Team
- February 14 – “Leading: Be Your B.E.S.T.” presented by Pat Hicks, Outcomes Management Group
- March 13 – “Is it Time to Transform Your Marketing Plan? Eight Critical Tweaks” presented by Chris Adams, Bascom & Adams
- April 10 -- “General Financing Options for Small and Emerging Businesses” presented by Tom Washbush & Ted Motheral, Benesch Law
- May 8 – “The Human Age: Attracting and Retaining Talent for Small Business” presented by Ken Lazar, Experis
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About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org/. -
Press Release
December 06, 2011
Columbus Chamber to launch CEO Straight Talks Program
COLUMBUS, OH (Dec. 6, 2011) -- In 2012, the Columbus Chamber will launch a new program to unite and empower the region’s CEOs. The CEO Straight Talk Roundtable series will provide a venue for business CEOs to meet and engage with each other, address their issues, experiences and challenges, and determine opportunities to take their businesses to the next level.
"Like an informal board of advisors, CEO Straight Talk Roundtables will challenge business leaders to exceed goals and brainstorm solutions,” said Somers Martin, director, business development services, Columbus Chamber. “Participants will benefit from the collective wisdom of the group and gain practical advice in a confidential setting. And because they will represent non-competing organizations, they can offer different perspectives and help discover new opportunities to accelerate their businesses.” Each roundtable will consist of 10 to 12 business owners who will meet monthly for confidential sharing. These sessions will be led by facilitators, and the topics will cover critical issues including finance, marketing, employee relations, production and accessing new markets. There also will be opportunities to engage industry leaders. Registration is now open for the CEO Straight Talk. For more information, download the registration form. For more information about the Columbus Chamber’s CEO Straight Talk Roundtables, contact Somers Martin, director business development services, at somers_martin@columbus.org or 614.225.6919. -
Press Release
November 16, 2011
Columbus Chamber Honors 2011 Small Business Leader Award Recipients
Columbus, Ohio (November 16, 2011) - The Columbus Chamber and its Small Business Council honored top small business leaders in the Columbus Region at the 27th annual Small Business Forum and Leader Awards. The event took place at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown.
The Small Business Leader Awards celebrate an elite group of business owners and entrepreneurs from some of the most successful businesses in Central Ohio. In 2011, the awards were expanded to include five new categories. “Small businesses help drive the Columbus Region economy,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “The Small Business Leader Award finalists and recipients represent some of our very best, and the Chamber is pleased to recognize this group of innovative, dedicated and passionate leaders from our business community.” The 2011 Small Business Award recipients include: Diversity Leadership
Farah B. Majidzadeh, Resource International, Inc.
Awarded to a minority or woman-owned business leader that has made a direct impact on the marketplace and promotes inclusion in the workplace as well as within the community. EcoBusiness
Christopher Irion, e-Cycle LLC
Awarded to a local business leader who promotes sustainability in business practices and the environment. Young Professional Leadership
Derek Grosso, Columbus Young Professionals Club, LLC
Awarded to a young, local business professional already making a considerable contribution within the Region. Adapt & Innovate
Kristen Harris & Catherine Lang-Cline, Portfolio Creative
Awarded to a business leader or leaders who achieve success in spite of challenges. Emerging Excellence
Jim Lane, GBQ Redbank Advisors
Awarded to a leader or leaders of a startup business gaining prominence within the Region. Award finalists and recipients were selected from applications by a panel of Small Business Council and Columbus Chamber representatives. Award finalists had included Justin Spring and Danielle Walton, BringShare and Adept Marketing; Gordon Scherer and Paul Keinath, DataCenter.BZ; Bobby Whitman and Matt Dopkiss, Dynamit; Otto Beatty and Brian Brooks, E.E. Ward Moving & Storage Co. LLC; and J.J. Rodeheffer, Andrew Lynch and Edward Williams, Zipline Logistics. The Small Business Forum & Leader Awards are produced by the Columbus Chamber and presented by Commerce National Bank with presenting partners Columbus Business First and Honorary Chair Mike Rosati, Rosati Windows. Partners include Alterra Real Estate Advisors, Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Bartha, Big Lots, CareWorks, CareWorks Consultants, Inc., Columbus Crew, Hahn Loeser & Parks, LLP, Integrys Energy Services Inc., KEMBA Financial Credit Union, OhioHealth, Spinelli's Deli, and State Auto Insurance Companies. The Diversity Leadership Award was presented by Precise Resource and the Emerging Excellence Award was presented by Porter, Wright, Morris and Arthur, LLP. About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
October 27, 2011
Chamber Unveils What Makes Columbus Cool for Young, Talented
Refresh of 2007 survey shows overall increase in audience’s perceptions of improvement
Columbus, OH – (Oct. 26, 2011) – The young and talented choose to make the Columbus Region home because of its amenities, vitality and social engagement, according to results of the Columbus Chamber’s 2011 survey: “What Makes Columbus ‘Cool’ for the Young and Talented.” Feedback from the more than 1,000 respondents, which showed definite perception shifts from a previous survey, was unveiled at tonight’s State of the Young Professional (YP) event.
“The young professional audience makes up a significant portion of the Columbus Region’s workforce and entrepreneurial community, making them a vital component to the Chamber’s mission of helping to retain and expand businesses,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “It’s encouraging to see positive feedback from this key stakeholder group, justifying the commitment we’ve made to attracting and retaining the young and talented. We hope to continue this progress in the coming years.” The survey follows up the initial late 2006 version, which coincided with the launch of the Chamber’s Attract & Retain Talent initiative. Evaluated beside the results from nearly five years ago, the 2011 survey is meant to measure progress made in the attraction and retention of young professionals, changes in perception of the Columbus Region among those young professionals, and to inform the dialogue around how Columbus can continue to evolve and improve as a home for young and talented people. Respondents to the survey included Boomerangers, who have moved back to Columbus from another location; Homegrowns, who have lived in Columbus all of their lives; Transplants, who moved to Columbus with no prior experience or tie to the region; and former Columbus residents now living elsewhere. Forty percent of respondents were between the ages of 26 and 30, and 31 percent reported 4 to 7 years of professional work experience. Full results from the survey can be found at columbus.org/yp2011, with key findings including:- The majority of respondents love the features Columbus has to offer, with more than half citing the region’s “amenities” as the reason they stay local. Those singling out “amenities” rose by 13 percentage points since 2007 – representing the most significant increase compared to reasons like family, job and education.
- Regarding what YPs look for in a community, “social capital” – defined as living in a diverse community where people are engaged and involved – recorded the biggest increase in importance from 2007 to 2011, jumping from 82 percent to 91 percent. The “cost of lifestyle,” which topped the list at 97 percent in 2007, remained the top answer at 98 percent.
- Respondents felt most strongly that the Columbus Region’s “vitality” – meaning Columbus is a vibrant, “out and about” community where people take advantage of parks, recreation and other healthy living options – had increased, rising 21 percentage points over 2007 responses.
- “Earning,” which called out the region’s broad workforce options and opportunities for entrepreneurs, jumped 12 percentage points from the previous survey – despite the lack of improvement in income levels and economic factors like the recession.
- Among Boomerangers, more than half cited family and job opportunities as the reason they moved back to the Columbus Region. The responses for Transplants were similar, with more than half citing job or educational opportunities as the biggest draws.
- When asked what one wish they had to make Columbus a magnet for young, talented people, 37 percent of those responding chose alternative transportation, such as improved public transportation and the addition of passenger rail services, up from 23 percent in 2007.
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
October 17, 2011
Columbus Chamber Hosting 2011 State of the Young Professional
MEDIA ADVISORY
WHO: Young artists, entrepreneurs and professionals from the Columbus Region, as well as city and business leaders with an interest and stake in this audience’s opinions and feedback.
WHAT: What makes Columbus cool for the young and talented? The Columbus Chamber will unveil results of a recent survey at the 2011 State of the Young Professional. More than 1,000 Young Professionals responded to the survey, noting their perceptions on issues such as income, diversity and social capital. The State of the Young Professional event will report on progress made in the attraction and retention of young professionals since the initiative was launched in 2007, and help shape the dialogue around how Columbus can be further improved as a home for young and talented people. Prior to unveiling results of the survey, the Chamber will host a career and professional development event, with sessions ranging from “Why You Didn’t Get That Job: An Insider’s Perspective to Successfully Navigating Today’s Labor Market” to “Moving From Idea to Action: What Does it Really Take to be Entrepreneurial?” Cost for attending the sessions is $30; networking and the State of the Young Professional event are free. WHEN: Wednesday, Oct. 26 from 4 to 7:30 p.m.
Career and professional development event (4 to 5:45 p.m.)
Networking and refreshments (5 to 6:30 p.m.)
State of the Young Professional program (6:30 to 7:30 p.m.) WHERE: Embassy Suites Columbus – Airport
2886 Airport Drive WHY: Young Professionals are a vital piece of the Chamber’s mission to help businesses thrive, as they make up a significant portion of the Columbus Region’s workforce and entrepreneur community. The results from this survey will detail the impact of the Chamber’s Attract & Retain efforts, and help to inform future initiatives. The 2011 State of the Young Professional is presented by Embassy Suites Columbus - Airport, in partnership with Battelle, State Farm and Columbus Underground and with support from Shutterbooth, CYP CLUB, Columbus Rotaract and Young Professionals of Columbus.
About the Columbus Chamber
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The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
October 05, 2011
Chamber, Partners Benefit from Microsoft Contribution
COLUMBUS, Ohio – (Oct. 5, 2011) Thanks to a recent $169,000 software donation from Microsoft Corp., three Columbus Region economic development organizations will have the latest technology solutions to help increase collaboration and productivity for their respective companies while lowering costs. The Columbus Partnership, Columbus2020 and the Columbus Chamber, all co-located in the former Lazarus building downtown, will now be operating on one technology platform. Historically the organizations have operated with heterogeneous systems, which presented challenges and unnecessary costs for many areas of the business.
“Our recent investment showcases Microsoft’s belief that technology can empower people around the world to do amazing things,”said John Wanke, regional manager,Microsoft Corp. “This belief is the reason we partner with thousands of organizations similar to Columbus2020 around the world. As a company, we are committed to the economic success of Central Ohio as demonstrated by this contribution. The 50 local employees and partners residing in this area are excited to support and empower these organizations as they look to achieve their goals by 2020.” “Microsoft’s generous contribution enables our team to gain efficiency and leverage the collaboration that was intended by our colocation. This is yet one more step into becoming the best economic development organization in country,” said Kenny McDonald (CEO). The Columbus Partnership, Columbus2020 and Columbus Chamber are collaborating on an aggressive economic development strategy to add 150,000 net new jobs, increase personal per capita income and add eight billion dollars of capital investment by 2020.###
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Press Release
September 14, 2011
Columbus Chamber to Host 88th Annual Clambake
COLUMBUS, OH – (Sept. 14, 2011) The Columbus Chamber will host its 88th annual Clambake Thursday, Sept. 22 from 5 to 9 p.m. One of the largest business events in the Columbus Region, last year the Clambake attracted more than 900 area business and community leaders.
“The Chamber Clambake is a longtime tradition in central Ohio, bringing together hundreds of business people to enjoy a tremendous dinner, build new connections – and of course have fun,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “This will be my first Clambake experience since joining the organization in the spring, and I’m looking forward to carrying on this special community event.” The Clambake will be held at the Water’s Edge Event Park at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Rd. Networking begins at 5 p.m. followed by a seafood extravaganza from 7 to 9 p.m. The menu, which is prepared by American Culinary Federation’s Columbus Chapter, includes nearly 5,000 clams, 900 Maine lobsters and 80 gallons of New England clam chowder. Grilled chicken, roasted red potatoes, Ohio sweet corn, coleslaw and dinner rolls will be on the menu as well. Soft drinks, beer and select wines are included with the price of the meal.
Tickets are $85 individually and $680 for a table of eight (Chamber members), or $95 individually and $760 for a table of eight (non-members). Register for tickets online at Columbus.org/clambake. The Columbus Chamber Clambake is made possible through generous sponsorships provided by: Woolpert, Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, City of Columbus, CareWorks Consultants Inc., Columbia Gas of Ohio, Columbus Crew, Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, Dawson, FASTSIGNS Westerville, Heidelberg Distributing, Integrys Energy Services, Inc., Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Spa, Ultra Kleen/Markee International Corporation, and Xerox,. Media support provided by: WMNI-AM 920, WTDA-FM Classic Hits - 103.9, and WRKZ-FM - The Blitz 99.7. Culinary skills provided by the American Culinary Federation’s Columbus Chapter.###
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. To learn more about the Columbus Chamber, visit http://www.columbus.org/.
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Press Release
September 07, 2011
Columbus Chamber, CRLC to Hold Logistics Job Fair Sept. 13
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sept. 7, 2011) – Aligning with the more than 20 percent growth expected in transportation and warehousing employment through 2016, the Columbus Chamber and the Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC) will hold a Logistics Job Fair Thursday, September 13 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. The event will take place at Columbus State Community College’s Center for Workforce Development, 315 Cleveland Avenue.
The event, which is free to both job seekers and exhibitors, will feature 50 companies in the region – ranging from Cardinal Health and Exel to McGraw Hill and Zipline Logistics. More than 400 job seekers are expected to attend, vying for open positions in areas including warehouse materials handling and operations management. “Because of our ideal location between the East Coast and Chicago, and within a day’s drive of more than half of the U.S. population, the logistics industry is expected to remain a major force in the Columbus Region,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “The goal of the job fair is not only to connect employers with those seeking position in the logistics industry, but also to keep the employment momentum moving upward in central Ohio.” In addition to providing access to employers, job seekers can take advantage of the on-site training sessions happening throughout the morning. Kelly Services, a workforce management solutions provider, will walk attendees through sessions including “Interviewing for Success,” “The Importance of Soft Skills,” and “Reverse Recruiter.” Attendees will also learn more about the Logistics Attracting and Retaining Talent (ART) program, which provides training to new and displaced logistics workers through Columbus State’s Center for Workforce Development. Since the $4.6 federal grant went into effect last year, more than 280 associates have participated in the program, with nearly 50 percent securing full-time employment so far. The Columbus Region boasts more than 3,000 logistics establishments and more than 100,000 employees in logistics-related occupations, with the industry accounting for 14.8 percent of the non-public workforce in the region. Additions like the Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal, part of the multi-state Heartland Corridor project which opened in September 2010, have helped to boost logistics-related employment demand in the region. The Columbus Region Logistics Council is an initiative of the Columbus Chamber.-30-
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful. -
Press Release
August 23, 2011
Chamber Announces VP of Business Expansion/Retention Program
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Aug. 23, 2011) – The Columbus Chamber announces the appointment of Patricia (Patty) Dalton Huddle to vice president, existing business solutions. Huddle will lead the Chamber’s initiative to retain and expand businesses in the 11-county Columbus Region within the Columbus2020 economic development strategy.
Huddle comes to the Chamber with extensive economic development experience and proven results that include positions at TechSolve, the Ohio Department of Development and the City of Upper Arlington, where she served as Deputy City Manager – Economic Development. “Patty’s knowledge and contacts within the State of Ohio and The Columbus Region will be extremely beneficial for our local businesses,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “This hire shows our commitment to retaining and expanding local employers and consistently advocating for a smart, open business environment.” Huddle joins an established team of economic development professionals led by Kenny McDonald, chief economic officer of Columbus2020. “Leveraging our economic base and the terrific network of companies within the Columbus Region is the heart of our 10-year growth strategy,” said McDonald. “Patty brings a wealth of experience to the outstanding team we are building to execute the Columbus2020 strategy.” Huddle earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/International Business from The Ohio State University. She is a certified Economic Development Finance Professional and has been active in numerous economic development-related associations. She joins the Chamber on Sept. 1, 2011.-30-
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful.
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Press Release
August 18, 2011
Columbus Chamber Reports Second Quarter Employment Decrease
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Aug. 18, 2011) – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) decreased by 3,600 (0.4 percent) during the second quarter, due solely to an unusually large June decline. U.S. employment increased 0.2 percent and Ohio employment increased 0.3 percent.
The MSA’s seasonally-adjusted March unemployment rate was 8.0 percent, up from 7.7 percent in March but down from 8.7 percent in June 2010. The June rate was lower than the 9.1 percent national rate and Ohio’s 8.7 percent. The increase in the local rate was due to a decrease in the number employed, offset by a decline in the workforce.
Sector-level employment performance was mixed. Construction continued its strong growth, and retail and professional and business services also outperformed the national average. Most other sectors significantly underperformed.
“If not for the employment decline in June, the Columbus MSA would have continued to outperform the national average,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “Assuming slow economic growth but no recession, I expect to see employment in the region return to its recent trend over the next few months, resulting in modest monthly growth for the remainder of 2011.”
Average employment during 2011 is likely to be about 0.8 percent higher than during 2010 rather than the 0.3 percent increase predicted at the 2011 Columbus Blue Chip Economic Forecast in January. The key reason for the upward revision is not a better-than-expected 2011; rather, the actual 2010 trend was stronger than implied by the preliminary employment statistics available when the forecast was completed.
Four of Ohio’s six large MSAs registered employment increases during the quarter. Akron and Dayton experienced employment growth during the quarter better than both Columbus and the U.S. average, while gains in Cincinnati and Cleveland were much less. Columbus and Toledo experienced losses for the second quarter. However, Columbus continued to lead the other five MSAs and the U.S.in regaining employment losses since the beginning of the recession.
The initial estimate of second quarter growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – the value of all goods and services produced in the U.S. – was an annualized 1.3 percent. This is a preliminary estimate that is subject to revision. The economists in the August Wall Street Journal Economic Forecasting Survey sharply reduced their economic growth predictions for the remainder of 2011 and all of 2012. July’s survey continued to show expected growth of 3.1 percent for the second half; the new predictions average 2.1 percent in the third quarter and 2.4 percent in the fourth quarter. Growth gradually strengthens to a still weak 2.8 percent by the end of 2012.-30-
The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the eight-county Columbus Region, enhances the business environment and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful.
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Press Release
August 09, 2011
Columbus Chamber Announces Support for State Issue 2
Chamber supports retaining Ohio bill that calls for government reform
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Aug. 9, 2011) – The Columbus Chamber has announced it supports a “yes” vote on State Issue 2, the campaign to retain Senate Bill 5, on November 8, 2011.
Prior to endorsement, the Chamber sought input from its members, and its Government Affairs Steering Committee heard perspective from both sides of the issue. Nearly 79 percent of the members who responded to a Chamber poll indicated they would vote “yes” to retain collective bargaining reform. The Chamber’s Board of Directors endorsed the plan based on a recommendation from the Steering Committee. “This is a pivotal point for Ohio’s economy, as growth and development of our business sector are threatened by unsustainable budgetary trends in state and local government,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Today’s action by the Columbus Chamber’s Board of Directors is a verification that its members overwhelmingly believe the reforms in Senate Bill 5 reflect economic realities. Just as businesses, during the recession, had to make hard decisions to cut expenses in order to remain solvent, so must our governments.” Business organizations around the state including the Cincinnati Chamber, Dayton Chamber, Greater Cleveland Partnership, and Ohio Chamber have also announced support for State Issue 2. Many aspects of Redesigning Ohio: Transforming Government into a 21st Century Institution, a report issued by the Columbus Chamber, Ohio Chamber and seven other Ohio metro chambers of commerce in December 2010, are contained in Senate Bill 5.The full copy of the Chamber’s resolution supporting State Issue 2 may be read at Columbus.org.
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Press Release
June 29, 2011
Columbus Chamber Launches Internship Video Series
COLUMBUS, Ohio (June 29, 2011)– The Columbus Chamber has launched a series of video resources for employers on its ColumbusInternships.com site, a free resource for businesses seeking to implement an internship program and connect with qualified undergraduate candidates.
Featuring a variety of local employers and interns who have utilized ColumbusInternships.com in the past, the videos focus on starting an internship program, making interns’ work count, how to find internship candidates, internship management, and helping interns to build relationships. Andrea Applegate, the Chamber’s director of workforce development, and David Cofer, the Chamber’s internship consultant, also weigh in on topics like paid versus non-paid internships and the benefits of hiring interns. “These new videos provide quick snapshots of some of the basic questions employers might have when considering an internship program within their business,” said Applegate. “It’s important for companies in the Columbus Region to know about this free resource that allows them to connect with college students seeking internships. It takes a lot of the leg work out of implementing an internship program and finding the right candidate for your needs.” ColumbusInternships.com maintains the employer-facing portion of the process, including tools for uploading internship position descriptions and browsing student resumes. The site recently partnered with EasyColumbus.com, an online resource that helps to retain Columbus Region college students after graduation, on the student-facing portion of the process – where internship seekers can search for opportunities and post their resumes. “Our first year, we had over 100 resumes when we posted our internship on ColumbusInternships.com,” says J.J. Rodeheffer, owner of Zipline Logistics. “For a company of four people and, at the time, doing about $3 million in sales, we were really pleased to have access to so many highly qualified local college students eager for the opportunity to come in and make a difference in our organization.” In addition to managing ColumbusInternships.com, the Chamber also hosts ongoing web-based and face-to-face workshops to help employers implement their own internship programs. Upcoming sessions include “Getting Started with Interns Part 1: Benefitting from a flexible, cost-effective workforce solution” (July 19) and “Getting Started with Interns Part 2: Moving from interest to action” (July 26). Visit columbus.org/events for full details.
The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, supports businesses in the eight-county Columbus Region by serving as their business partner. -30-
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Press Release
June 28, 2011
Call for Nominations for Small Business Leader Awards
Revamped award categories include focus on sustainability, innovation, diversity, startups, young professionals
COLUMBUS, Ohio (June 28, 2011) – The Columbus Chamber is now accepting nominations for its 2011 Small Business Forum & Leader Awards, scheduled for November 15. The deadline to submit nominations for the new categories is 5 p.m. July 21. “Small businesses are really at the heart of the Columbus Region’s economy, totaling 40,000 businesses strong and making up approximately 95 percent of the Chamber’s membership,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. “The Small Business Leader Awards allow us to recognize both individuals and businesses for the passion and achievements that help to keep the economy running in central Ohio.” According to the Small Business Administration, a small business is considered to have fewer than 500 employees. The Chamber and its Small Business Council have been recognizing local businesses since 1984, but this year’s award categories have been revamped to provide new opportunities for recognition. The new categories are:- EcoBusiness – recognizing a local business leader who promotes sustainability in business practices and the environment
- Adapt and Innovate – honoring a business leader who achieves success in spite of challenges
- Diversity Leadership – recognizing a minority or woman-owned business leader that has made a direct impact on the marketplace and promotes inclusion in the workplace as well as within the community
- Emerging Excellence – acknowledging a leader or leaders of a startup business gaining prominence within the region
- Young Professional Leadership – recognizing a young, local business professional already making a considerable contribution within the region
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Press Release
June 27, 2011
Columbus Chamber Names VP, Government Relations
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Chamber has appointed Michael Hartley to the position of vice president, government relations. The Chamber supports businesses in the 10-county Columbus region.
“Public policy issues are vitally important to businesses operating in the Columbus region and those considering a relocation or expansion,” said Michael Dalby, president, Columbus Chamber. “Advocacy on behalf of businesses is a core element of the Chamber’s mission and is critical to the business community.” In this position Hartley will advocate for business-centered economic growth policies to members of federal, state and local governments and will inform Chamber members of public policy issues. The Chamber’s government relations initiatives are designed to support businesses and the development of the Columbus region. As a result, the Columbus region secured millions of dollars from the federal government to improve the infrastructure at Rickenbacker, an important area for the growing logistics sector; saved thousands of jobs at the Defense Supply Center Columbus; and positively affected state regulations. The Chamber participates with nine metro Ohio Chambers of Commerce to promote business-friendly policy and recently published recommendations to help the state of Ohio improve economic performance and reduce costs. The Chamber facilitates dialogue between business and government leaders and connects local businesses with resources to improve their ability to do business. “The Columbus Chamber has a long history in affecting public policy on behalf of business,” said Dalby. “Michael’s public policy expertise and passion for business will benefit our members and the entire business community.” Hartley has a strong background in public policy and advocacy and most recently directed the Office of Public Liaison for the Office of Governor John Kasich. He holds a B.A. from Baldwin-Wallace College. -END-
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Press Release
June 27, 2011
Revised Standards Keep Ohio, Columbus Competitive in Logistics
COLUMBUS, Ohio (June 27, 2011) – The logistics industry in central Ohio scored a major victory recently, as the Ohio Board of Building Standards changed its originally proposed regulations limiting exit distances in warehouses and distribution facilities. This revision allows the logistics industry in the state and in the Columbus Region, specifically, to remain competitive in their operations.
The Columbus Chamber and its Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC) were key participants in the effort to revise the standards, which sought to reduce the minimum permissible distance to an exit in warehouses and distribution facilities from 400 feet to 250 feet. If approved as written, warehouses greater than 500 feet across would not have been possible in Ohio without a variance under the new building code. The restriction would have hindered the logistics industry’s growth potential in the state, including limiting the number and type of warehousing and distribution facilities attracted to Ohio. The Columbus Partnership and Columbus2020! also voiced opposition. Once these concerns were shared with the Board of Building Standards and the Ohio Department of Commerce, a team of experts from state government and the Chamber worked quickly on crafting a revision to the proposed rule. “As a region, central Ohio has long been recognized at the national and even international level as an ideal logistics hub, thanks in part to the excellent transportation infrastructure running through the city and its single-day’s-drive proximity to half of the U.S. population and manufacturing capacity,” said Steve Tugend, chair of the government relations practice at Kegler, Brown, Hill and Ritter, who testified on behalf of the Chamber and CRLC. “This revision will allow Ohio, and the Columbus Region, to remain a competitive location to host and grow its logistics, warehousing, and distribution industries.” Logistics-related companies employ more than 110,000 people in central Ohio, accounting for 14.8 percent of the region’s private-sector workforce. Logistics-related employment in the Columbus area is up 15.8 percent over the last decade, compared to a nationwide decline of 4.3 percent. And in the Columbus region, average wages for logistics-related positions are 13.5 percent higher than other sectors, adjusting for skill level. Recent developments like the Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal have further strengthened the region’s logistical capabilities, helping to cement long-term growth and employment potential.
“We’re pleased that the logistics industry, which has been a key driver in the Columbus Region, will have the flexibility to grow existing operations and attract new warehousing and distribution companies,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. “Logistics employment makes up a sizeable chunk of the region’s private-sector workforce, boasting considerably higher wages than sectors with comparable training. We have a stake in ensuring that the industry continues to thrive in central Ohio.” Regarding businesses relocating or setting up new operations in Ohio, the state’s optimal tax system provides even more incentive. According to a recent report from the Ohio Department of Development’s Policy Research and Strategic Planning Office, Ohio offers the lowest capital investment tax rate in the Midwest region of the United States, and the lowest per capita state tax burden among its neighboring states. Because there are no taxes on gross receipts to sales made and/or shipped outside of the state, logistics/distribution companies in Ohio can easily do business across state lines without added costs. For more information on logistics and the CRLC, visit http://www.columbus.org/business-resources/logistics/. The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, supports businesses in the eight-county Columbus Region by serving as their business partner.
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Press Release
June 06, 2011
Columbus Business to Business Trade Show to be held June 8
COLUMBUS, Ohio (June 6, 2011) – Hundreds of area businesses will showcase their products and services to thousands of potential customers at a community Business2Business Network Expo, hosted by the Columbus Chamber and several community partners.
The Business2Business Network Expo will be held June8 from 11:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. in the Greater Columbus Convention Center’s Battelle Grand. The Expo is one of the largest business to business trade show and networking events in the Columbus Region. Some exhibit space is still available for the EXPO at a cost of $300. There is no charge to attend. For more information and to register as an exhibitor or attendee, visit www.columbus.org/B2B. The Columbus Chamber helps businesses thrive. It leads business growth, retention and expansion initiatives in the eight-county Columbus Region, enhances the business environment, and delivers programs and services that enable its members to be more successful.-30-
Business2Business Network Expo Presenting Partners: The Columbus Dispatch, CareWorks, CareWorks Consultants Inc., and Dispatch Digital. Columbus Chamber Partners: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Columbus Crew. Leaders: Experience Columbus, Integrys Energy Services, Xerox and Columbus C.E.O. Magazine. Patrons: Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, Sprint/Preferred Wireless and Ultra Kleen/Markee International. Patron Supporters: Columbia Gas of Ohio, Porter, Wright, Morris & Arthur and Wells Fargo Insurance Services. Promotional Partners: Bartha, FASTSIGNS Columbus, FASTSIGNS Westerville, Gahanna Area Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Environmental Council, WMNI-AM, WRKZ-FM 99.7 the Blitz and WTDA-FM 103.9 Classic Hits. Advisory Board: The Columbus Dispatch, Experience Columbus, SWACO and TechColumbus. -
Press Release
May 25, 2011
Columbus Chamber Reports First Quarter Employment Increase
COLUMBUS, Ohio (May 25, 2011) – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) increased by 5,300 (0.6 percent) during the first quarter. Ohio employment increased 0.9 percent and U.S. employment increased 0.4 percent.
The MSA’s seasonally-adjusted December unemployment rate was 7.7 percent, down from 7.9 percent in December and 9.8 percent in March 2010. The March rate was lower than the 8.8 percent national rate and Ohio’s 8.9 percent. The decline in the local rate was due to an increase in the number of people employed larger than the increase in the number of people looking for work. Sector-level employment performance was mixed. Construction continued its strong growth, and wholesale, retail, transportation, and financial activities also outperformed the national average. Manufacturing, business services, leisure, and education and health significantly underperformed. “The first quarter numbers are good, as we are seeing a larger number of people returning to work than actively seeking employment,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “Columbus continues to outperform the national average, and lead Ohio’s large MSAs, in terms of job growth. We are expecting steady increases in employment throughout 2011.”
The initial estimate of first quarter growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – the value of all goods and services produced in the U.S. – was an annualized 1.8 percent, down significantly from the fourth quarter’s 3.1 percent rate. This is a preliminary estimate that is subject to revision, and the economists in the April Wall Street Journal Economic Forecasting Survey continue to expect strong growth for the remainder of the year. The consensus is for growth of 3.3 percent during the second quarter, 3.4 percent in the third quarter, and 3.6 percent in the fourth quarter, yielding 3.2 percent for the year as a whole – the strongest growth since 2004. Corrected employment estimates for 2010 reveal employment decreases much less severe than originally reported: 2,000 jobs (1.4 percent) rather than the originally estimated loss of 12,500 jobs (0.2 percent). This revision changed 2010 Columbus MSA growth from less than the national and state averages to well ahead of both. Estimates for 2009 were revised downward. All of Ohio’s six large MSAs registered employment increases during the quarter. Akron, Cincinnati, and Toledo experienced employment growth during the quarter better than both Columbus and the U.S. average, while gains in Cleveland and Dayton were much less. However, Columbus continued to lead the other five MSAs and the U.S. in regaining employment losses since the beginning of the recession. A detailed report and visual representation of this information is available at http://www.columbus.org/media-center/publications.php.-30-
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Press Release
April 12, 2011
Green Council Offers Earth Day Tips for Businesses
COLUMBUS, Ohio (April 12, 2011) – In honor of Earth Day 2011, set for April 22, the Columbus Chamber’s Green Council has compiled five tips for local businesses looking to become more environmentally responsible.
“Whether it’s implementing a recycling program, encouraging employees to bike to work or using environmentally friendly products in the workplace, our goal is to show business leaders how simple and cost-effective it can be to reduce their overall footprint,” said Doug Morgan, chair of the Columbus Chamber’s Green Council and partner, Hahn Loeser & Parks LLP. “If we all commit to making green initiatives a priority, Columbus will put itself on the map in terms of a progressive, environmentally-friendly region.” The Green Council’s tips include:- Use local resources. Purchasing business materials from within the region rather than across the country not only helps to support regional economic development, it also cuts down on the carbon emissions needed to transport goods from one place to another. Take advantage of the thousands of service providers in central Ohio when it’s time to buy office supplies or fix a leaky roof.
- Go paperless. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average office worker in the U.S. uses 10,000 sheets of paper each year – adding up to 4 million tons of paper used annually. Help reduce this number by refraining from printing emails and considering electronic invoices, newsletters and contracts.
- Commit to recycling. Implementing a recycling program can help divert more than 70 million tons of materials (including cans, cardboard and paper) from landfills every year. Businesses in the Columbus Region can find resources for starting their own recycling programs via organizations like Recycle Downtown and Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO).
- Engage employees. In addition to making recycling a priority at your company, get employees involved in the commitment to increase environment responsibility. Efforts like Consider Biking’s 2 by 2012 initiative – to encourage each citizen to bike to work two days per month by the Columbus bicentennial in 2012 – will help to increase green transportation by 300 percent.
- Spread the word. Pledge to be green via Columbus’ GreenSpot, and make your customers and vendors aware of what your business is doing. Encourage them to continue the momentum by making green efforts a priority.
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Press Release
April 05, 2011
Chamber Government Day to Highlights Voice of Business
COLUMBUS, Ohio (April 4, 2011) – Business leaders and policymakers will come together to discuss issues that are important to the economic growth and development of the Columbus region at Government Day. The forum, hosted by the Columbus Chamber with support from 15 local chambers, will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 8 at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown, 50 North Third Street.
Nearly 30 federal, state and local office holders are expected to attend, including newly-elected Governor John Kasich, who will deliver the keynote address. The focus of this year’s event will be on the state’s budget crisis and the corresponding “Redesigning Ohio” report compiled by the Columbus Chamber, seven other Ohio metropolitan chambers and the Ohio Chamber. “The state’s fiscal situation impacts all of us, including local and regional businesses whose livelihood correlates with the economic landscape in Ohio,” said Jack Partridge, chairman, Columbus Chamber Board of Directors and president, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc. “This event provides policymakers an opportunity to hear directly from businesses about the state budget and other issues that impact their short- and long-term operations. Having this face-to-face connection is key for both businesses and legislators involved.”
Roundtable discussions will focus on the issues and recommendations made in the “Redesigning Ohio” report, including budgeting for outcomes, local government systems, criminal justice systems, tax expenditures, civil service, regulatory reform, and entrepreneurial management.
“Government Day allows our members the chance to engage legislators directly and express issues and concerns,” said Partridge. “Advocacy is a priority for the Chamber, and an integral part of promoting a pro-business legal and regulatory environment for businesses in the region.” Tickets for Government Day are available for $50 at columbus.org/events. The event is sponsored by Columbia Gas of Ohio, Exel, American Electric Power, Cassidy Turley, Nationwide, Paul Werth Associates, Huntington, and OhioHealth. Cosponsoring Chambers include Canal Winchester Area Chamber of Commerce, Delaware Area Chamber of Commerce, Dublin Chamber of Commerce, Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, Grandview/Marble Cliff Area Chamber of Commerce, Hilliard Area Chamber of Commerce, Knox County Chamber of Commerce, Madison County Chamber of Commerce, New Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, Pickaway County Chamber of Commerce, Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce, Union County Chamber of Commerce, Upper Arlington Area Chamber of Commerce, Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce, and Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce. The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, supports businesses in the eight-county Columbus Region by serving as their business partner.-30-
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Press Release
March 17, 2011
Columbus2020! Expands Board of Directors
COLUMBUS, Ohio – (March 17, 2011) Columbus2020! today announced an expansion of its Board of Directors and election of 2011 officers to include: Alex Fischer, president and CEO, The Columbus Partnership (chairman); Jack Partridge, president, Columbia Gas of Ohio (treasurer); Eric Phillips, CEO, Union County Chamber of Commerce (secretary); and Kenny McDonald, chief economic officer, Columbus2020! (president). Columbus2020! is a regional public-private partnership leveraging central Ohio´s research and academic institutions and diverse industries to position the state capital to become the fastest growing economy in the country and one of the nation´s leaders in economic development.
“Columbus2020! is off to a great start and is putting the people and funding in place to make a dramatic difference for our regional economy,” said Fischer. “The Board of Directors is excited about our initial progress and will work hard to maintain the momentum we have established with our public and private partners throughout the region.” Additional Columbus 2020! board members include: Laing Akers, senior attorney, Squire Sanders; David Blom, president and CEO, OhioHealth; Marilyn Brown, Franklin County Board of Commissioners; Mayor Michael Coleman, City of Columbus; Mike Goldbeck, vice president, finance and administration, Columbus Chamber; Michael Keller, executive vice president and CIO, Nationwide; and Gregory Overmyer, CEO, Overmyer Associates. “Our Board’s expertise in steering and growing a variety of entities will add great value and perspective to our team as we continue to pursue growth opportunities for our great region,” said Brown. “We are all thrilled to work alongside our team of committed and capable leaders, strategic thinkers and successful collaborators,” said Phillips. “It is critical that we operate with a regional vision and this board will work to ensure this commitment.” For information about Columbus2020!, visit www.columbus2020.org.-30-
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Press Release
March 16, 2011
Survey: 85 Percent of Regional Logistics Companies to Hire in
Columbus Chamber’s Columbus Regional Logistics Council conducted survey in preparation for March 22 job fair
COLUMBUS, Ohio (March 16, 2011) – The employment outlook is positive for the logistics industry in central Ohio, according to a recent survey conducted by the Columbus Chamber’s Columbus Region Logistics Council (CRLC). Eighty-five percent of the companies surveyed plan to hire additional logistics positions in 2011, and more than half view the creation of additional job functions as the industry’s primary growth opportunity over the next five years. “Ongoing infrastructure improvements like the Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal and a strong regional economy are helping to create additional jobs in the logistics sector, which is already a major workforce and economic driver in central Ohio,” said Daniel Ricciardi, executive director, CRLC. “The need to move goods from one place to another, and to support the management and back-end technology of those processes, will not disappear. We are anticipating job growth that coincides with that demand.” Key findings of the recent survey included: - Eighty-five percent of companies surveyed plan to hire logistics-related staff in 2011. More than 80 percent plan to add between 10 and 50 employees. - Respondents identified various job functions – including operations management, transportation, warehousing/materials handling, business development/sales and technology – as workforce priorities over the next year. - Creation of additional job functions and on-the-job training opportunities were cited by more than half of respondents as the primary growth opportunities for logistics professionals over the next five years. - More than half of companies said the region’s strong customer base has most positively impacted logistics growth in central Ohio. Twenty-seven percent pinpointed the region’s recovering economy. The CRLC conducted the survey in advance of its spring job fair, scheduled for 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 22 at Columbus State Community College’s Center for Workforce Development, 315 Cleveland Ave. More than 35 companies – including Cardinal Health, Limited Brands and McGraw-Hill – will be on hand to talk with potential candidates about entry-level to mid-management/leadership opportunities in areas including operations management, facilities management and maintenance, business development and customer service. Admission is free for job seekers. For more information on the job fair, visit http://www.columbus.org/member-center/events/?id=206 The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 members, supports businesses in the Central Ohio region. -
Press Release
March 16, 2011
Collaboration Equals Jobs for Columbus
COLUMBUS, Ohio (March 16, 2011) – Columbus will welcome nearly 100 new jobs, thanks to the collaboration of the City of Columbus, Columbus2020!, the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, Rickenbacker, the State of Ohio, and a chance meeting on an airplane.
Frank Brunckhorst Co., LLC, responsible for distribution of Boar’s Head Brand®, one of the nation’s leading brands of premium delicatessen products, will locate a $20 million project that is expected to create 93 jobs. The company received tax incentives from the City of Columbus and the State of Ohio.“We are proud to welcome the Frank Brunckhorst Co. to the City of Columbus,” said Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman. “Our community offers a skilled workforce, available technology and a high quality of life for its employees.”
Officials from Frank Brunckhorst Co. cite the community’s work ethic, logistics and technology strengths, and ease of doing business as just a few of the selling points of the community.
“During our investigation of Columbus, we immediately sensed that we’d have a good working relationship with these partners,” said Mike Martella, company President. “A lot of other items started to come together as well.”
The attraction of this project is one of the first for the Columbus2020! team. “We welcome Frank Brunckhorst Co. and the Boar’s Head Brand to the Columbus Region, and we look forward to working with them as they begin operations here,” said Kenny McDonald, chief economic officer, Columbus2020! The consistency of Columbus’ welcome and support throughout the community – from the city to Rickenbacker and the Rickenbacker Employer Assistance Network – was a selling point for the company. According to Martella, once the community’s workforce and technology assets were identified, the selection came down to a feel for the community.Martella noted, “On one of my airplane travels I met a professor from The Ohio State University. He spoke very highly of Columbus, commenting on the region’s strong work ethic and quality of life. He described the city as progressive. Honestly, he cemented everything I thought about Columbus.”
Brunckhorst’s Boar’s Head Brand was founded in 1905 and is headquartered in Florida. This privately owned company sells its products through large and small food retail organizations in 48 states and Puerto Rico.
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Press Release
February 15, 2011
Chamber Reports Modest Fourth Quarter Employment Decrease
COLUMBUS, Ohio – (February 15, 2011) – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) decreased by 400 (less than 0.1 percent) during the fourth quarter of 2010. Ohio employment fell by 0.2 percent and U.S. employment increased by 0.3 percent.
The region’s seasonally-adjusted December unemployment rate was 7.9 percent, down from 8.2 percent in September and 9.3 percent in December 2009. The December rate was lower than the 9.4 percent national rate and Ohio’s 9.6 percent. The decline in the local rate was due to an increase in the number of people employed, coupled with little change in the number of people looking for work. Sector-level employment performance was mixed. Construction, wholesale, business services, other services, and government grew at a stronger-than-average rate, but retail, transportation, financial activities, education and health, and leisure substantially underperformed the averages. “Although the news at this point does not seem good, these results are preliminary and subject to potentially significant correction in March,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “An upward revision of 6,900 – which would be equal to the 2007 revision, and the smallest correction in three years – would give us 2010 growth equal to the national average. Based on what we have seen so far, I’m expecting that the correction will be good news.”
National economic growth accelerated during the fourth quarter. The initial estimate of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth during the quarter was an annualized 3.2 percent – which is in line with the average forecast of the 56 participants in the December 2010 Wall Street Journal economic forecasting survey. This is a preliminary estimate that is subject to revision, and was an improvement over the second and third quarter growth of 1.7 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively.
The economists polled also were unanimous in expecting continued economic growth through 2011. The consensus is for growth of 3.3 percent during the first three quarters and 3.5 percent in the fourth quarter. The 3.3 percent average growth for the year would be the strongest performance since 2004. The release of preliminary December 2010 sector employment estimates gives a first look at employment trends for 2010 as a whole. Total employment decreased 1.4 percent in the Columbus MSA, .1.0 percent statewide, and 0.5 percent nationally. All sectors except construction, retail, business services, and government underperformed their national counterparts. These estimates are subject to potentially significant revision March 18. A detailed report and visual representation of this information is available at columbus.org.
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Press Release
February 03, 2011
Columbus Region Business Development Mission to India
COLUMBUS, OH (Feb. 3, 2011) – Franklin County Commissioner John O’Grady and Columbus2020!, a regional economic development initiative, are leading a delegation of 15 business and community leaders on a business development mission to India (Feb. 8-19, 2011). The delegation, representing a cross-section of the Columbus Region’s leading industries, including financial services, information technology, legal and education, will include stops in New Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore and the Columbus Sister City, Ahmedabad.
Columbus and Ahmedabad finalized a sister city relationship in 2008, making Columbus Ahmedabad’s first sister city. The relationship began as a business venture, but it soon fostered diplomatic ties as well, especially in light of the large and active Indian population in Columbus. Ahmedabad has a very diverse economy. Its economic base was originally founded in the textiles industry, but the pharmaceutical and the information technology industries have also grown significantly in the past few decades. Mission participants include; the City of Columbus, Columbus Sister Cities International, The Ohio State University, Jones Lang Lasalle, Kegler, Brown, Hill & Ritter, Bluemile Inc. and SGI Global Business Advisors. The development mission will be an opportunity for the Franklin County delegation to explore foreign direct investment, export and business development opportunities for businesses in the sectors of advanced manufacturing, information technologies, biosciences and advanced energy systems. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Indian-U.S. trade tops $63.63 billion a year and “India’s GDP, growing at 6.7 percent (for 2008-09), makes it one of the fastest growing economies in the world and the second fastest in Asia. It also ranks second in global foreign direct investments and is a top destination for international investors, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade Development (UNCTAD). India also makes significant investment in the U.S. In fact, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) indicates that Indian companies’ investments in the U.S. between 2004 and 2009 amounted to approximately $5.5 billion. Metals, information technology, media and entertainment, industrial machinery, equipment and tools, and financial services were the sectors that received the greatest amount of investments. “This is the perfect time to take a Franklin County delegation to India,” said Commissioner John O’Grady. “India’s growing infrastructure means trade and investment opportunities are available for Franklin County companies. India is an important market and there is great potential to create jobs and foreign investment from India for our local economy through these business relationships.” The growing synergy between the two countries in the technology sectors and mutually shared respect for democracy, rule of law and well established business practices have made the two countries natural business partners. “Columbus2020! is excited to participate in this global initiative with such a strong, collaborative team,” said Kenny McDonald, chief executive officer, Columbus2020! “Exploring opportunities in India is important to the economic growth of our region.” Columbus2020! is a bold, new, regional public-private partnership that will leverage Central Ohio´s research and academic institutions, diverse industries to position the State Capital to become the fastest growing economy in the country and one of the nation´s leaders in economic development. This mission is the inaugural international trade mission for the new Columbus2020! team. Franklin County will be “tweeting” trip updates and photos on the official Franklin County twitter account, http://twitter.com/FranklinCoOhio. Columbus2020! also will be posting updates via http://twitter.com/kennymcdon and http://twitter.com/CBUSIntlBiz.
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Press Release
January 05, 2011
Blue Chip: Columbus Economy to Experience Moderate Growth
Columbus Chamber’s 12th annual Blue Chip Economic Forecast shows growth in business and professional services, healthcare and private education
COLUMBUS, OH (Jan. 5, 2011) – Employment in the Columbus region will continue moderate growth during 2011 as the economy recovers from the 2007-09 recession, according to the Columbus Chamber’s Blue Chip Economic Forecast released today at the Columbus Metropolitan Club. A net increase of 0.3 percent, or 2,500 net new jobs, is expected. The Columbus Region includes the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) of Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway and Union Counties. “With the Columbus region faring better than average through the recession and key industry sectors going into expansion mode, we are positioned for a return to employment growth in 2011,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “As we emerge from recession and head into recovery, we have the opportunity to translate the strengths of the Columbus region into growth of existing and new businesses.” Business and professional services, as well as healthcare and private education, are expected to record the strongest employment growth in 2011. The manufacturing and financial sectors are expected to suffer the largest declines. The 2011 Blue Chip Economic Forecast examines trends in 10 individual sectors. Key findings include: • Columbus region employment is expected to grow by 0.3 percent, or 2,500 net new jobs, in 2011. • Business and professional services dramatically outperformed the national average during the recession and throughout 2010, and will see an increase of 2.2 percent this year. • Healthcare and private education is expected to increase by 1.3 percent, due in part to the growing, positive reputation of the region’s healthcare providers. • Retail, which has been in recovery mode, should see net growth of 500 jobs, or 0.5 percent, in 2011. • Construction is expected to improve, adding 500 jobs (1.6 percent). • Transportation and utilities should stabilize following a rough few years, with a year†-
Press Release
December 20, 2010
Metro Chambers Announce Collaboration on State Budget Issue
Recommendations to transform state government, reduce costs unveiled
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Dec. 20, 2010) – In a significant reimagining of state budget issues and Ohio government, nine Ohio-based metropolitan chambers of commerce, including the Columbus Chamber, today jointly released a report recommending sweeping changes designed to help Ohio improve economic performance and reduce costs.The recommendations are the culmination of an unprecedented year-long process in which the chambers identified, researched and analyzed a wide variety of ideas and narrowed them down to those that will best improve the performance of the state. To facilitate this process, the chambers worked with author and public policy expert David Osborne and former state budget director Greg Browning. The coalition of nine chambers of commerce represents Ohio’s larger metro areas as well as the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. In addition to the Columbus Chamber, the participating metropolitan chambers of commerce include: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Akron Chamber, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber. “The budget crisis in Ohio is both sobering and a significant opportunity to fundamentally change the way state and local government operate,” said Tom Humphries, president and CEO of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber. Humphries leads the metro chambers coalition. “We believe that if the General Assembly and the Governor adopt these recommendations, state and local government will be transformed from systems that maintain the status quo of inefficient, costly government to systems based on performance, outcomes and accountability.” The report, titled “Redesigning Ohio: Transforming Government into a 21st Century Institution,” includes the following recommendations:- Adopt budgeting for outcomes as the underpinning for the government redesign plan. Rather than making incremental changes to the status quo, this approach focuses on what matters most: purchasing outcomes that citizens value. Programs that do not contribute much to those outcomes are no longer included in the budget.
- Establish charter agencies and entrepreneurial management as “bureaucracy busting” measures to save money and/or increase revenues while increasing creativity and flexibility for managers.
- Make state agencies that provide support services to government accountable to their customers, and use the power of competition to drive innovation and improvement.
- Reduce state regulatory enforcement costs by designing regulations that achieve the same outcomes as their predecessors but are easier to comply with and, as a result, decrease the likelihood that they will be violated.
- Implement a comprehensive tax expenditure review to regularly examine the 122 distinct tax expenditures – credits, exemptions and deductions – that amount to $7.7 billion in lost state revenue annually. Also, reduce or cap costly real property tax rollbacks.
- Adopt civil service and compensation reform that will give managers freedom to manage their people; link public employee compensation to performance; and bring state pensions into line with private sector realities.
- Reduce the costs of the public pensions system through changing contribution formulas, consolidating redundant systems and increasing cost sharing of some benefits.
- Improve Ohio’s health insurance value equation by using the state’s bulk purchasing power to help drive down healthcare costs.
- Significantly reduce prison system costs by directing more nonviolent offenders away from adult prisons toward non-residential community-based monitoring and treatment.
- Establish new structures on the state and county levels and provide both carrot and stick incentives and assistance to promote local government efficiencies, sharing of services and consolidation.
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About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community. For more information visit www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
December 16, 2010
Chambers to Unveil Budget-Reducing Recommendations for State
What:
A coalition of metropolitan chambers of commerce from around Ohio will release a study containing business-based recommendations on how the State of Ohio can transform its operations to improve performance and reduce costs.
When:
Monday, Dec. 20, 2010
9 a.m.Where:
The Bistro Room at the Capital Club
Huntington Center, 41 S. High St., 7th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215 Why:
The recommendations are the culmination of a year-long process in which the chambers identified, researched and analyzed a wide variety of ideas and narrowed them down to those that will best improve the performance of the state. The goal of the chambers is to foster economic growth and development in Ohio. Who:
The coalition of nine chambers of commerce represents Ohio’s larger metro areas as well as the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. The participating metropolitan chambers of commerce include: Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber, Columbus Chamber, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Akron Chamber, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Youngstown-Warren Regional Chamber. To facilitate this process, the chambers worked with author and public policy expert David Osborne and former state budget director Greg Browning. A representative from each of the chambers will be available for interviews at the conference.-30-
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Press Release
December 16, 2010
Economic Development Professionals Join Columbus2020! Team
Business Development and Global Markets Directors Significant Hires
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Dec. 16, 2010) – Columbus2020!, the Columbus region’s economic development initiative, has hired Deborah Scherer, director of global markets and Matt McQuade, director of business development. Scherer and McQuade join a growing team dedicated to attracting new enterprises and retaining existing employers to the eight-county Columbus region.
“Deborah and Matt are talented, experienced professionals that know the Columbus region and the state of Ohio very well and we are fortunate that they are joining the Columbus2020! team,” said Kenny McDonald, chief economic officer, Columbus2020! “They can hit the ground running and provide additional evidence that the Columbus2020! initiative is deeply committed to meeting the jobs and investment goals set by our leadership.” Scherer will draw on her international business experience in both the private and public sectors. Scherer last served as director of the Ohio Department of Development’s Global Markets Division and is a native of Ohio. Scherer attended Ohio University where she majored in International Business and Marketing, and minored in Spanish. “We intend to utilize Deborah’s skills to better understand our existing international business community and to develop a business proposition to companies around the world.” said McDonald. McQuade will direct business development strategies in North America, on behalf of Columbus2020! He previously served as the Ohio sales manager for the Ohio Business Development Coalition (OBDC) where he marketed the state to companies and location advisors throughout the world. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University (OSU) and a master’s in Public Administration from the John Glenn School of Public Affairs at OSU. “Columbus2020! is about surfacing opportunities and getting our region on the list of possible locations – often before they have fully conceived their projects,” said McDonald. “Matt has a proven record of doing just that in his previous roles.” Columbus2020! is a regional public-private partnership focused on economic development strategies to attract, retain and create new businesses in the region. Additional team appointments are anticipated for the first quarter of 2011.-30-
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Press Release
December 06, 2010
State Grant to Support Chamber Initiative
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Dec. 6, 2010) – The Columbus Chamber was awarded nearly $250,000 from the Ohio Department of Development to support an initiative to retain businesses and jobs. The agency awarded a combined $2.4 million to 11 organizations across the state through the agency’s Early Warning Network programs. Funds support enhancing relationships with business executives, responding to threats of businesses at risk of closing or leaving the region, and supporting businesses with expansion potential.
The grant aligns directly with the focus of the Chamber and the Columbus2020! regional economic growth initiative, which calls for the Chamber to focus its efforts on the retention and expansion of businesses located in the Columbus region. The Chamber will work with local businesses to identify impediments to growth or retention, and offer connections to solutions.
This grant will boost the programs the Chamber has in place. “This grant supports the work of the Columbus Chamber to retain and expand local businesses,” said Jack Partridge, president of Columbia Gas of Ohio and chairman of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors. “This Early Warning Network for the Columbus region will provide support for existing businesses at risk of closure to ensure they are aware of and get connected to the resources they need to grow and prosper.”
The Early Warning Network intends to help organizations identify and assist companies at risk of closure or layoffs.
"The Early Warning Network allows us to continue our proactive work with companies that are in need of assistance, rather than getting involved after layoff notices are given," said Ohio Department of Development Director Lisa Patt-McDaniel. "This program will ensure that companies around the state have the resources needed to keep their employees on the job and continue to bolster their communities."
For more information on the Early Warning Network, visit http://development.ohio.gov/workforce.-30-
About the Columbus Chamber
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
November 22, 2010
Chamber to Sponsor March Trip to Ireland
COLUMBUS, OH (Nov. 22, 2010) -- The Columbus Chamber introduced a new travel program for members of the Columbus business community, their family and friends this year. The upcoming go>explore program will travel to the Emerald Isle March 22-30, 2011.
The guided tour features Limerick, Killarney, Waterford and Dublin, and will depart from Port Columbus. The trip is designed to be hassle-free for travelers and is provided as a service by Chamber Explorations. The go>explore trip will allow attendees to explore Irish treasures such as:- Dublin
- Killarney and Jaunting Car ride
- Trinity College – Book of Kells
- Guinness Brewery Storehouse
- Cliffs of Moher
- Ring of Kerry
- Waterford Crystal Visitor Center
- Glendalough and St. Kevin’s
- Limerick
- Blarney Castle and Woolen Mills
- Galway
- Muckross House & Gardens
The guided tour includes:- Round-trip airfare from Port Columbus
- Seven nights of four-star hotel accommodations
- 10 meals
- Professional guide
- Comprehensive sight-seeing
- Admissions per itinerary
- Baggage handling
- Hotel transfers
- Opportunity to travel with other Chamber members
Free Informational Session Slated for Dec. 7
About the Columbus Chamber
Space is limited, and the Columbus Chamber encourages anyone interested to attend a free information session on Dec. 7, 2010. The information session will in no way obligate attendees to go on the trip; it is an opportunity to learn more about the trip and Chamber Explorations.
For more information, please e-mail Jay Scott at the Columbus Chamber or call him at 614.225.6901. For more information, visit www.columbus.org/travel
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The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
November 09, 2010
Chamber Survey Finds Small Businesses Plan Growth, Expansion
More than half plan to add to staff in 2011,
70 percent predict expansion in next five yearsCOLUMBUS, Ohio (Nov. 9, 2010) – Results of Columbus Chamber survey, released today in conjunction with the organization’s annual Small Business Forum & Leader Awards, finds local small business owners optimistic for the future. Fifty-three percent anticipate adding to their staffs in 2011, and nearly 70 percent plan to expand their products and/or services in the next five years. The survey, commissioned by the Columbus Chamber and administered by Community Research Partners, included insight from more than 100 local small businesses – with 73 percent of respondents self-identifying as executive management (i.e., owner, president, CEO). In addition to uncovering small businesses’ plans for expansion in the future, the survey was meant to determine the characteristics of small businesses in the region, understand small business owners’ perceptions of the local business climate, and identify top challenges business owners face. “If the survey is any indication, central Ohio’s small businesses are a driving force that is here to stay,” said Jack Partridge, president of Columbia Gas of Ohio Inc. and chairman of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors. “These businesses – which already make up a healthy percentage of the region’s total number of businesses – have weathered the most recent recession and have plans to grow both their operations and the services they offer. They also anticipate growing their staffs, which benefits the entire region in terms of employment and tax revenue.” Other interesting findings from the survey included:- More than 70 percent of respondents indicated that their company has been in business for more than 10 years, and 57 percent of the businesses surveyed have annual gross revenues of more than $1 million.
- More than half (56 percent) of the respondents chose to start their business in central Ohio because of pre-existing ties to the community. Respondents cited the region’s strong economy, ideal location, community diversity, ample networking opportunities and the reasonable cost of living as the key strengths that make Columbus a great place to start a business.
- The majority of respondents identified three factors – stable economy, availability of qualified workers and revitalization – as having a positive impact on their businesses.
- Infrastructure is a selling point in the region, with respondents overwhelmingly agreeing that building space (85 percent), highway access (97 percent) and high-speed Internet access (95 percent) are adequate.
- When asked to identify the key issues and challenges facing their industry, central Ohio businesses cited national economic factors, cost and availability of health insurance, local economic factors, availability of financing/capital and state taxes as most prevalent.
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The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
September 28, 2010
Columbus Chamber Receives Economic Development Award
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sept. 28, 2010) – The Columbus Chamber received an Honorable Mention for Excellence in Economic Development for its Columbus Region Attracts, Retains Talent in the category of Human Capital for communities with populations of greater than 500,000 from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
The honor was presented at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, September 28 during the IEDC Annual Conference, September 26-29 in Columbus. “We recognize the Columbus Chamber for providing successful strategies to promote new paradigms in economic development in this period of global recovery,” said William Best, IEDC chair. “Our awards honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in communities. The Columbus Chamber is showing that they are at the forefront of the economic development profession and are using innovative and effective practices that can be replicated in other communities." The Columbus Chamber supports businesses in the eight-county Columbus Region. In preparation for a national workforce shortage, and to address the needs articulated by local businesses, the Columbus Chamber launched a three-pronged strategy to attract and retain talent, through the support of a strong public-private partnership. The strategy focused on building the area’s local workforce through internships, attracting and retaining young professionals, and assisting area companies in marketing Columbus to potential employees. The Columbus region has tremendous assets to recruit and retain a strong workforce including 27 colleges and universities with total enrollment of more than 120,000; 14 Fortune 1000 companies; a strong culture of entrepreneurialism and a younger-than-average population. The Excellence in Economic Awards Program annually recognizes the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. The program honors organizations and individuals in 28 categories for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities. The city of Dublin, a partner of the Chamber and member of the Mid-Ohio Development Exchance, won in the category of Entrepreneurship for the Dublin Entrepreneurial Center. The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the premier membership organization dedicated to helping economic development professionals create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities and improve the quality of life in their regions. Serving more than 4,500 members, IEDC represents the largest network of economic development professionals in the world. IEDC provides a diverse range of services, including conferences, certification, professional development, publications, research, advisory services and legislative tracking.
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Press Release
September 13, 2010
Columbus Chamber Book to Commemorate Citys Bicentennial
COLUMBUS, Ohio (Sept. 13, 2010) – The Columbus Chamber has partnered with the City of Columbus to publish the official commemorative history for the Columbus Bicentennial in 2012. The book, to be titled Historic Columbus: A Bicentennial History, is being written by local historian and educator, Ed Lentz. It will give a fresh perspective on Columbus’ history as the city looks back the last two centuries.
Lentz has been teaching, writing and exploring the history of central Ohio for the past 40 years. He teaches Ohio history at several local colleges and universities. He is the author of numerous articles and books on Ohio historical topics, including Columbus: The Story of a City (2003). This coffee table book will contain hundreds of photographs, illustrations, maps and other images, many of which have never before been in print. Numerous images will be reproduced in full color. A unique part of Historic Columbus is the “Sharing The Heritage” section, which will include the histories of many of Columbus’ leading corporations and organizations. Participation in this section is being offered by invitation to Columbus companies which have played a role in the development and economic strength of the city. The “Sharing The Heritage” section is separate from the main historical manuscript and is being written by local free-lance writers. Historic Columbus is the official history book of the Columbus Bicentennial, and will be published in late 2011. It is being produced utilizing the services of Historical Publishing Network of San Antonio as a publishing consultant. It will be the sixth in the Ohio Heritage series of books produced by Historical Publishing Network. The book, when published, will sell for $49.95 and will be available through the Chamber, the City of Columbus and also at area book stores.###
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Press Release
August 17, 2010
Columbus Chamber Reports Second Quarter Employment Increase
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) rose slightly during the second quarter of 2010, with a net increase of 4,000 positions (0.4 percent). The increase topped Ohio’s employment increase (0.1 percent), but slightly trailed the U.S. rate (0.5 percent).
A mid-year review of the 2010 Blue Chip Economic Forecast suggests that year-over-year employment growth will be less than that forecast in January: a net loss of approximately 9,000 positions (1.0 percent). “The important point is that the downward revision is not because the labor market now is doing worse than we were expecting, but rather because employment losses last year were so much worse than the federal government originally estimated,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “I expect continued employment growth during the rest of the year.” The region’s seasonally-adjusted June unemployment rate was 8.9 percent, down from 9.8 percent in March, but up from 8.6 percent in June 2009. The June rate was lower than the 9.5 percent national rate and Ohio’s 10.5 percent. The decline in the local rate was due to a strong increase in the number of people employed. Employment performance was mixed at the sector level, with construction, wholesale, and leisure and hospitality growing at a stronger-than-average rate. Manufacturing, information, education and health, other services, and government substantially underperformed the averages. Of Ohio’s six large MSAs, all but Dayton registered employment increases during the second quarter. Akron, Cincinnati, and Cleveland experienced employment growth during the quarter better than both Columbus and the U.S. average. However, the other MSAs’ employment losses since the beginning of the recession continued to be proportionally greater than for both Columbus and the U.S. U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gained an annualized 2.4 percent during the second quarter, far less than the three-plus percent expected by economists. The consensus of economists surveyed in the monthly Wall Street Journal poll is that growth will be moderate (2.7 to 2.9 percent) through the second quarter of 2011. The forecast expects U.S. employment growth to average 160,000 jobs per month, with the unemployment rate near its current 9.5 percent level through the end of the year. A detailed report summarizing these findings and a chartbook showing employment trends in more than 20 individual sectors of the local, state, and national economies are available at http://www.columbus.org/media-center/publications.php#columbus.-30-
The Columbus Chamber leads and supports economic growth and development in the Greater Columbus community. It supports a membership of 2,500 businesses. For more information, visit www.columbus.org. -
Press Release
July 06, 2010
Two Sales Professionals Join the Columbus Chamber
For immediate release:
July 6, 2010
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Two sales professionals, Tyler Durbin and Dan Morris, have joined the Columbus Chamber staff. They are charged with connecting businesses in the Columbus region to the resources needed to grow and prosper.“With the hiring of additional business development team members, we’re proud to further expand the resources we can offer businesses in the Columbus region,” said Joe Sciulli, director of member services. “Both Durbin and Morris bring versatility and a fresh perspective, particularly regarding the young professional demographic, enhancing the value we can deliver to Chamber members.” Durbin comes to the Chamber from Valpak Direct Marketing, where he was responsible for developing direct mail advertising campaigns for small businesses in Columbus. He is also the founder and editor of GenYJourney.com, a blog focused on the career development of young professionals. Durbin is a graduate of Miami (OH) University’s Farmer School of Business, and he resides in Grandview Heights (43212). Also a business development representative, Morris is a graduate of The Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business. Prior to joining the Chamber, Morris served as assistant director of operation management for The First Tee of Columbus. In that position he was responsible for fundraising and membership. A Bexley native, Morris now resides in Northwest Columbus (43214). For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.-30-
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
June 22, 2010
Chamber Leader to Step Down
For immediate release:
June 22, 2010Columbus, OH – Ty D. Marsh today announced his resignation as president and CEO of the Columbus Chamber. Marsh has held the position since December 2003.
“For more than six years I have enjoyed the honor and privilege of leading the Columbus Chamber toward its economic development mission,” said Marsh. “The professional challenges of leading this dynamic organization and preparing it to launch new initiatives through Columbus2020! have been fulfilling and rewarding. I have accomplished the goals I established when accepting this position and it is a good time to pursue new professional opportunities and challenges.” Marsh believes that this is the appropriate time for a transition, as the Columbus Chamber takes on a new role under the community’s regional economic development strategy, Columbus2020! The Chamber will implement a new existing business strategy that will seek to understand, assist and advocate for existing businesses. “With up to 80 percent of job growth originating from existing businesses, the new strategy is timely, needed and prudent,” said Marsh. “As implementation begins, it’s the right time for me to make a change. The Chamber can count on me to be helpful in its mission even as I work in other capacities.” During his tenure with the Chamber, Marsh passionately advocated for and successfully pursued regional collaboration as the driver for economic development. The Chamber now holds a contract with 22 local cities and counties, through the Mid-Ohio Development Exchange, which provides unprecedented marketing and business attraction and retention collaboration. This regional partnership has resulted in numerous successes for the region including the retention of thousands of jobs at DSCC and expansions at NetJets and JPMorgan Chase. In addition, the Chamber and Marsh received numerous awards and recognitions including Chamber of the Year (CEO Magazine), Regional Leader of the Year (MORPC) and the highest rankings among polls of regional CEOs, elected officials and civic leaders. Jack Partridge, chair of the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors and president, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Inc., credits Marsh with positioning the Chamber to lead the new existing business strategy. “Ty’s leadership, credibility and trusted relationships resulted in successes for the Chamber and our region. On behalf of the board of directors, we appreciate his tireless efforts to advance the region’s growth and prosperity,” said Partridge. “His work will benefit the Columbus regional economy for years to come.” Marsh will conclude his work at the Chamber in July. Over the next year, he will play a leadership role in preparing Columbus for its bicentennial in 2012. In this voluntary position, Marsh will chair a leadership team to ensure that the community moves forward on implementing the 2012 Bicentennial Commission report.-30-
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Press Release
May 25, 2010
Study: Midwest Records Solid Metrics in Employment, Housing
For Immediate Release:
May 25, 2010Columbus, Ohio – A new national economic development study comparing changes in factors including employment rates, overall population and housing prices found the Midwest fared better overall than many of its regional counterparts during the most recent recession.
The study, compiled by the Columbus (Ohio) Chamber of Commerce, includes data for 32 cities and Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) ranging from Los Angeles and New York to Detroit and Atlanta. The cities and MSAs were compared across seven key categories to determine overall economic health and signs of growth during the recession. Some of the Midwest locales examined were strong in employment and housing price stability. “Because of the widely known struggles of Midwest spots like Detroit, the nation’s perception is that the entire region is experiencing the same level of hardship – record-setting employment losses and real estate declines,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “While the Midwest saw decreases across the board like everyone else, some Midwest cities and MSAs were able to maintain favorable metrics compared to some other metropolitan areas. Because our region didn’t see the significant spikes prior to the recession, we didn’t experience declines as drastic as some other regions.” Another area in which the Midwest performed well was housing affordability, based on median household incomes and median housing prices. Of the MSAs researched, eight of the 10 most affordable locales – meaning that the average wage earner could afford the average home – were located in the Midwest. Some of the key findings from the study include:- Of the 32 MSAs researched, Pittsburgh came out on top regarding employment loss during the height of the recession (from Dec. 2007 to Feb. 2010), with a decrease of just 3.3 percent. Columbus (-4.9 percent), Kansas City (-5 percent) and St. Louis (-5.6 percent), all Midwest MSAs, also fared well, comparatively. Locations including Los Angeles, Miami and Atlanta lost nearly double the percentage of jobs in the same time period.
- Metropolitan areas outside the Midwest have generally suffered the largest house price declines since 2007, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) House Price Index. Miami, Phoenix and Los Angeles all recorded decreases of more than 25 percent. The bright spot in the Midwest was Pittsburgh, with an increase of 3.3 percent; on the other hand, Detroit prices fell 27.1 percent.
- Despite the recession, some Midwest MSAs, including Indianapolis, Columbus and Kansas City, saw notable population increases (more than 2 percent) from 2006-2008 – easily surpassing cities like Boston and New York. The central city population of both Columbus and Kansas City also grew during the same time period – with increases of 1.8 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively – meaning these two Midwest locales are growing on both urban and suburban levels.
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The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community. Media Contacts:
Susan Merryman, Columbus Chamber
614-225-6941
Susan_merryman@columbus.org Ann Marcum, Fahlgren Mortine Public Relations
614-383-1634
Ann.marcum@fahlgren.com
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Press Release
May 17, 2010
Columbus Chamber Reports First Quarter Employment Stable
For Immediate Release:
May 17, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) remained nearly unchanged during the first quarter of 2010 with a net increase of 100 positions, according to the Columbus Chamber’s analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic data. Ohio and U.S. employment both increased 0.1
percent.“The employment stability that emerged in the first quarter is encouraging and better than predicted,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “I continue to expect the employment growth rate in total and in many sectors to strengthen as the year continues.” The region’s seasonally-adjusted March unemployment rate was 9.8 percent, up from 9.1 percent in December and 8.1 percent in March 2009. The March rate was higher than the 9.7 percent national average, but lower than Ohio’s 11.0 percent. The increase in the local rate was due to a strong increase in the number of active job-seekers. In analyzing employment by sectors, the Chamber found professional and business services strengthened markedly. Transportation was also stronger than average, which is an indication of increased demand for goods. The Columbus region is recognized internationally for its logistics infrastructure. Employment in nearly all other sectors declined – most by proportionally more than at the national level. Declines were particularly severe in financial activities, information, and construction. Of Ohio’s six large MSAs, Cleveland, Dayton, and Toledo experienced employment growth during the first quarter-- better than both Columbus and the U.S. average. However, the Columbus MSA’s employment losses since the beginning of the recession continued to be proportionally less than those of the other five MSAs as well as the U.S. U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gained an annualized 3.2 percent during the first quarter, in line with economists’ expectations. The consensus of economists surveyed in the monthly Wall Street Journal poll is that growth will continue close to this rate through the year. The forecast expects U.S. employment growth to average 160,000 jobs per month, with a slight decline in the unemployment
rate to 9.3 percent by December. Also last quarter, revised employment estimates published for 2009 revealed employment declines much worse than originally reported: 32,100 jobs (3.4 percent) rather than the originally estimated loss of 17,300 jobs (1.8 percent). Although this was still better than the national average, it was the worst regional employment decline in nearly 50 years of statistics. Estimates for 2008 were also revised downward. A detailed report summarizing these findings and a chartbook showing employment trends in more than 20 individual sectors of the local, state, and national economies are available at http://www.columbus.org/media-center/publications.php#columbus-30-
The Columbus Chamber leads and supports economic growth and development in the Greater Columbus community. It supports a membership of 2,500 businesses. For more information, visit www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
May 11, 2010
Government Day Puts Spotlight on Economic Development Policy
For Immediate Release:
May 11, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Business leaders and policymakers will come together to discuss issues that are important to the economic growth and development of the Columbus region at Chamber Government Day. The forum, hosted by the Columbus Chamber with support from 21 metro chambers, will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 14 at the Athletic Club of Columbus, 136 E. Broad St.
Nearly 30 federal, state and local office holders are expected to attend. “Providing business leaders a voice in the public policy process is critical to the growth and development of the Columbus region,” said Mike Curtin, associate publisher emeritus of the Columbus Dispatch, and chair, Columbus Chamber Government Affairs Steering Committee. “This event gives policymakers an opportunity to hear directly from businesses about hot-button issues that will have an impact on their operations. It’s an invaluable learning and networking event for all involved.” As a highlight of Government Day, the luncheon portion of the agenda will include a discussion between Ohio Republican Party Chair, Kevin DeWine, and Ohio Democratic Party Chair, Chris Redfern. It will be moderated by Curtin. Roundtable discussions will focus on the areas of health care, infrastructure development, economic development practices, government support for start-up companies, and the state operating budget. “From our beginning, advocacy has been at the core of the Columbus Chamber’s mission,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Government Day is an integral part of our efforts to promote a pro-business legal and regulatory environment in which the region’s businesses can continue to grow and prosper.” Tickets for Government Day are available for $50 at www.columbus.org. The event is sponsored by Columbia Gas of Ohio, Alterra Real Estate Advisors, American Electric Power, Nationwide, Sam’s Club, Paul Werth Associates, Sam’s Club, Sequent, CSX, Huntington, and OhioHealth. Cosponsoring Chambers include Bexley Area Chamber of Commerce, Canal Winchester Area Chamber of Commerce, Clintonville Area Chamber of Commerce, Delaware Area Chamber of Commerce, Dublin Chamber of Commerce, Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, Gahanna Area Chamber of Commerce, Grandview/Marble Cliff Area Chamber of Commerce, Granville Area Chamber of Commerce, Hilliard Area Chamber of Commerce, Knox County Chamber of Commerce, Lancaster Fairfield County Chamber of Commerce, New Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, Pickaway County Chamber of Commerce, Pickerington Area Chamber of Commerce, Reynoldsburg Area Chamber of Commerce, Southeastern Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, Union County Chamber of Commerce, Upper Arlington Area Chamber of Commerce, Westerville Area Chamber of Commerce, Worthington Area Chamber of Commerce.-30-
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.
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Press Release
April 14, 2010
Bickle Graduates from Prestigious Economic Development Program
For immediate release:
April 14, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Justin Bickle, manager, corporate site location at the Columbus Chamber, has graduated from the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute (OU/EDI).
“Justin is an integral member of the Chamber’s economic development team,” said Matt McCollister, vice president of economic development for the Columbus Chamber. “As a graduate of the OU/EDI program, he now brings even more knowledge and skills to benefit the businesses we serve—and can further enhance our efforts to attract the world’s leading companies to the Columbus region.” OU/EDI is a three-session program, each one week long, which provides a broad spectrum of advanced education for the economic development professional and is accredited by the International Economic Development Council. OU/EDI classes focus on three major core areas: business retention and expansion, real estate, and finance, as well as areas of concentration in marketing, strategic planning, and managing economic development organizations. Students complete 117 hours of instruction selected from more than 50 seminars, workshops and discussion groups. Begun in 1962, OU/EDI now has more than 3,500 graduates. Bickle has served on the Columbus Chamber team since 2006. Previously he held the position of economic development specialist for the city of Lewisville, Texas. Bickle holds a Master of Public Administration and International Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences, both from Bowling Green State University. He resides with his wife in Gahanna, Ohio (43230). For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.
-30- The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
March 31, 2010
Columbus Chamber Names Joe Sciulli Director of Member Services
Sales Veteran Joins Team as Chamber Strengthens Focus on Retaining and Growing Region’s Existing Businesses
For Immediate Release
March 31, 2010 COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Chamber today announced that Joe Sciulli has joined the organization as its director of member services. Joe will play an integral role in the Chamber’s membership development program, as he heads up the new membership team. “We are extremely pleased to welcome Joe to this critical role—connecting local businesses with the resources and information they need to prosper,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “He brings extensive business expertise and highly relevant sales experience that will have an immediate impact on the Columbus Chamber and its members, especially as we develop a blueprint for economic growth and vitality of the region’s existing businesses.” Sciulli comes to the Columbus Chamber from GN Netcom, a telecom office equipment company, where he served as director of sales for the past five years. Prior to that, he had served as vice president of sales for NetTest North America, a major manufacturer in the test and measurement industry. Sciulli brings more than 18 years of experience in business development, with an emphasis on growing new sales programs for the enterprise. His international experience includes growing new business and developing new relationships in 21 different countries. Sciulli resides with his family in Liberty Township, OH. For information about the Columbus Chamber and the services available to business, visit www.columbus.org.-30-
The Columbus Chamber, with 2,500 members, leads and supports economic growth and development in the Columbus region.
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Press Release
March 19, 2010
Chamber Introduces New Members of Small Business Council
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus Chamber has announced that eight area business owners have joined the Columbus Chamber Small Business Council, which serves as the voice of small to mid-size enterprises in the Columbus region. Nine of ten Columbus Chamber members are classified as small businesses.
“The Small Business Council is integral in helping the Columbus Chamber best serve its members by representing the needs of small and growing companies,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “We’re excited to welcome these new members to the council and look forward to leveraging their unique perspectives and business experiences -- especially as we strengthen the Chamber’s focus on ensuring that our region’s existing companies are growing and thriving.”
Nearly 40,000 small businesses in the Columbus region form the foundation of our local economy. The 21-member Small Business Council represents these companies’ interests in the Columbus Chamber’s program development and position on controversial policy issues.
New council members include:- Michelle Abreu, President, Oxford Consulting Group, Inc.
- Kamal Boulos, Owner, The Refectory Restaurant
- Martin Brady, Chief Sales Officer, Commerce National Bank
- Mark Hall, Vice President, Three Leaf Productions
- Bill Kiefaber, Chief Operating Officer, GRIP Technology
- Catherine Lang-Cline, President, Portfolio Creative
- Tim McCord, President, DaNite Sign Company
- Christine Robertson, President, Capital Services
The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.-30-
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Press Release
February 24, 2010
Economic Future Topic of Columbus Chamber Annual Meeting
New vision built on collaboration and support for existing business
For immediate release
Feb. 24, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – More than 1,100 business and community leaders attended the Columbus Chamber’s Annual Meeting, held today in the new Battelle Grand at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The event focused on economic development plans for the Columbus region, including a vision for 2020 and the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to retain and expand existing businesses in central Ohio. The Columbus2020! strategy is designed to take this region to the next level, using the basic elements of economic development – attraction of new companies; expansion of existing companies; creation of new companies; and the enhancement of workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life. “The Chamber is pleased to be an integral part of the Columbus2020! strategy. Retaining and growing existing businesses is our highest priority, as these organizations create 60 to 90 percent of all new jobs,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “Moving forward, the Chamber is eager to bolster our programs that provide assistance to both large corporations and small companies across the region. It is our mission at the Chamber to help them succeed and prosper.”
Presentation overview
Alex Fischer, president and CEO, The Columbus Partnership, helped to unveil the details of the Columbus2020! initiative. The initiative will focus on three core strategies to ensure the economic success of Columbus over the next decade: retaining and expanding the companies and industries that call central Ohio home today; attracting major employers to establish operations in the region; and creating more commercial enterprises by leveraging the region’s research assets and entrepreneurs. The community collaboration of the initiative is unprecedented. Jack Partridge, president, Columbia Gas of Ohio, and incoming chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, discussed the role the organization will play in nurturing existing businesses to foster growth. “Through Columbus2020!, the Chamber will deliver an essential resource to our region – a blueprint for economic growth and vitality of our existing businesses, as well as the energy, synergies and partnerships to make it happen,” said Partridge. “As we move through this transformation in our community, your Chamber will serve as a catalyst for change.” Columbus Award
Michael Morris, chairman, president and CEO, AEP, received the Columbus Award, the most prestigious award given by the Columbus Chamber, recognizing an area business professional for outstanding business and community leadership. The award was presented by Dave Blom, president and CEO, OhioHealth and the Chamber’s immediate past chairman, and Partridge. “Mike has devoted his expertise to build a better Columbus, leading AEP’s commitment to build the Scioto Mile, a mile long system of bike and pedestrian paths, urban streets, new riverfront park spaces and activities along the Scioto River,” said Blom. “In an integral role at AEP, Mike also brings national attention to Columbus for his knowledge and work on environmental issues. It is a true honor for me to bestow this year’s award to a most-deserving recipient.” Morris received a unique piece of art created exclusively for the Columbus Award by Dawson Kellogg, assistant professor, dimensional studies program, the Columbus College of Art and Design. Board of Directors elections
As part of the annual meeting, the following members were re-elected to serve another term on the Columbus Chamber Board of Directors.
• Terri L. Hill, president, Nationwide Better Health, and executive vice president, Nationwide Administration
• John P. McEwan, office managing partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP
• Lonnie L. Miles, CEO, Miles-McClellan Construction Co., Inc.
• Gregory R. Overmyer, CPCU
• William W. Pfeiffer, chairman and CEO, CareWorks
• Elaine Roberts, A.A.E., president and CEO, Columbus Regional Airport Authority
• Eric C. Smith, vice chairman emeritus, Team Fishel New to the board are:
• Robert D. Irwin, president and CEO, Sterling Commerce
• Jeff M. S. Kaplan, senior vice president, administration and planning, and special assistant to the president, The Ohio State University
• Stephen E. Kelly, senior vice president, Battelle, and president, National Security Global Business
• Catherine M. Lyttle, vice president of corporate communications and investor relations, Worthington Industries, Inc.
• Kathleen P. Murphy, president, MurphyEpson, Inc. Breakout Sessions
Following the one-hour meeting, in-depth sessions were conducted for each of the three Columbus2020! focus areas: business retention and expansion; business attraction; and business creation. Copies of retention and expansion and attraction presentations are being made available online: Retention & Expansion Session: Existing Industry Strategy (via SlideShare)
Attraction Session: Economic Development (via SlideShare)
Attraction Session: The Columbus Image Project (PDF)
The Columbus Chamber 2010 Annual Meeting was presented in partnership with State Auto Insurance Companies. Event partners include Leaders CareWorks, Columbia Gas of Ohio, and Columbus C.E.O. Magazine and Patrons Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP, Schneider Downs, Sophisticated Systems, Steptoe & Johnson, and Agil IT. Additional support is provided by Columbus Chamber Partners Anthem and CompManagement, Inc., with media promotion provided by Bartha Audio Visual, 99.7 the Rock, Classic Hits 103.9, and WMNI AM. The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.-30-
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Press Release
February 19, 2010
Columbus Chamber Reports Fourth Quarter Employment Decrease
Economists Continue to Forecast Job Market Turn in 2010,
U.S. GDP Shows Strong GainFor Immediate Release:
Feb. 19, 2010COLUMBUS, Ohio – Employment in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA – Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway, and Union Counties) decreased 10,200 (1.1 percent) during the fourth quarter 2009. Ohio and U.S. employment both fell 0.2 percent.
The region’s seasonally-adjusted December unemployment rate was 9.1 percent, up from 8.2 percent in September and 6.5 percent in December 2008. The December rate was lower than the 10 percent national average and Ohio’s 10.9 percent. The increase in the local rate was due both to declining employment and a much smaller decline in the number of active job-seekers.
Employment in nearly all individual sectors declined – most by proportionally more than at the national level. The declines were particularly severe in transportation, leisure, and professional services; however, construction strengthened and retail and government were also stronger than average.
“Most of the fourth-quarter employment decline was due to a net loss of 8,100 jobs in December – a decrease twice as large as any recorded during the worst of the recession last winter,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “There is no identifiable reason for a decline that large, which leads me to think that it might be a measurement error in these preliminary statistics.”
Despite the decreases in employment, some positive signs emerged.U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) gained an annualized 5.7 percent during the fourth quarter – the strongest growth since 2003.
Those surveyed in the monthly Wall Street Journal poll were unanimous in expecting continued economic growth, but at a slower pace than that registered during the fourth quarter – around 3 percent. The forecast continues to expect the job market to turn within the year. However, the national unemployment rate should end the year only slightly lower than its current level.
The release of preliminary December sector employment estimates gives a first look at employment trends for 2009 as a whole. Total employment decreased 1.8 percent in the Columbus MSA, 4.4 percent statewide, and 3.7 percent nationally. All sectors except government outperformed their national counterparts. These estimates are subject to a potentially significant revision in the release scheduled for March 10.
A detailed report and visual representation of this information is available at www.columbus.org.
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The Columbus Chamber leads and supports economic growth and development in the Greater Columbus community. It supports a membership of nearly 2,500 businesses. For more information, visit www.columbus.org.
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Press Release
February 11, 2010
Columbus Chamber to Offer Internship Workshops for Employers
For Immediate Release
Feb. 11, 2010
COLUMBUS, OH – Internships can be a win-win proposition for both students and employers. To help interested organizations launch successful internship programs, the Columbus Chamber will offer a series of workshops for local business leaders. The Columbus Chamber supports internships because they strengthen the business community.“The Columbus Chamber’s new workshops are ideal for any organization that is either considering the use of interns, or interested in learning more about the process,” said Dave Cofer, internship consultant, Columbus Chamber. “Interns represent a great opportunity to introduce short-term, flexible resources into your business, while also offering a young person the chance to obtain valuable work experience.” Scheduled through the year in both in-person and webinar settings, the sessions are free for Chamber members and $25 for non-members. Getting Started with Interns The first session, “Getting Started with Interns,” will introduce the fundamentals and key considerations every organization should review prior to hiring interns. It will be offered seven times throughout 2010 and is launching next Tuesday, Feb. 16, from 8:30 – 10 a.m. at the Columbus Chamber office, 150 S. Front Street, Columbus. Registration is now open at Columbus.org. Future session dates and times include:- Thursday, April 1 – 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, May 11 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Thursday, July 1 – 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Aug. 24 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Thursday, Sept. 30 – 3:30 to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 9 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Wednesday, March 10 – 3 to 5 p.m.
- Thursday, June 10 – 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
- Tuesday, Sept.14 – 3 to 5 p.m.
- Thursday, Dec. 9 – 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
- Part 1: Wednesday, March 10 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Part 2: Tuesday, March 23 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Part 1: Thursday, July 15 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
- Part 2: Thursday, July 29 – 8:30 to 10 a.m.
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Press Release
February 03, 2010
Columbus Chamber Announces 2010 Annual Meeting
Feb. 24 Event to Highlight Vision for 2020,
Renewed Focus on Business Retention and ExpansionFor Immediate Relase:
Feb. 3, 2010 COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Columbus community has come together in an unprecedented move to align economic development activities with an eye toward 2020. Join the Columbus Chamber at its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 24 to hear about an innovative vision in which Columbus is recognized for job growth and support for local business; a collaborative community invested in its existing business; and a community that talented professionals seek out to live, work, and play.
“The road to 2020 involves significant investment in economic development, targeted attraction strategies, and heightened focus on the retention and expansion of today’s businesses,” said Ty Marsh, president and CEO, Columbus Chamber. “As we enter this new decade, the Chamber will renew and strengthen its commitment to improving our region’s business climate, helping local companies grow and succeed, and enhancing our quality of life in the Columbus region.”
Business retention and expansion programs rank as the number one economic development activity in communities across the country. Existing businesses create 60 to 90 percent of all new jobs, according to the Ohio Business Retention and Expansion Initiative.
The Chamber’s Annual Meeting will take place in the new Battelle Grand at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Doors will open at 7 a.m., and a full breakfast and networking will begin at 7:30 a.m. The program will run from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Individual tickets are available for $75 or $750 for a table of 10 for members. Non-member tickets are $90 for an individual or $900 for a table of 10. Registration is now open online at www.columbus.org.
Columbus2020!, a community-driven vision and strategic plan for the future of economic development in Central Ohio, will be introduced during the meeting.
Following the one-hour meeting, in-depth presentations will be conducted for three Columbus2020! focus areas: business retention and expansion; business attraction; and business creation. Concurrent sessions will be held from 9:15 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The Columbus Chamber 2010 Annual Meeting is presented in partnership with State Auto Insurance Companies. Event partners include Leaders Columbia Gas of Ohio and Columbus C.E.O. Magazine and Patrons Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP, Schneider Downs, Sophisticated Systems, Steptoe & Johnson, and Agil IT. Additional support is provided by Columbus Chamber Partners Anthem and CompManagement, Inc., with media promotion provided by Bartha Audio Visual, 99.7 the Rock, Classic Hits 103.9, and WMNI AM. The Columbus Chamber, with nearly 2,500 area businesses and organizations, leads and supports economic growth and development for the Greater Columbus community.-30-
Editor’s note: Media representatives are invited to attend the Annual Meeting at no cost. Please RSVP Michelle Bretscher at 614-225-6908 or michelle_bretscher@columbus.org.
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Press Release
February 03, 2010
Chamber Applauds Legislature Action on Third Frontier
For Immediate Release:
Feb. 3, 2010
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Chamber today expressed its support for the Ohio Senate and House of Representatives passing a resolution that will allow Ohioans to vote on renewing the Third Frontier program on the May primary ballot.“The Third Frontier program is a way to grow our workforce and economy,” said Ty Marsh, President & CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber’s mission is to lead and support economic growth and development and the Third Frontier program advances that mission.” The Columbus Chamber was a strong supporter of placing the Third Frontier renewal on the May 2010 ballot. Among the many reasons for its support was the program’s six-year history of a 10 to 1 return on the state’s investment, the high-value, high-paying jobs the program has created and will likely produce in the future, and the substantial increase in venture capital for investment in Ohio-based small businesses and early-stage companies.HJR 12 passed the Ohio Senate by a vote of 83-13 and the Ohio House by 30-2 margin.
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Press Release
January 18, 2010
DuPont Completes $295 Million Expansion for Photovoltaic Marke
For Immediate Release
WILMINGTON, Del., Jan. 18, 2010
DuPont announced an investment of $175 million to complete the multi-phase expansion of its high-performance DuPont™ Tedlar® PV2001 series oriented film production line. This investment is in addition to $120 million in capacity expansions, announced in August 2009, for raw materials used to make the film, bringing the total commitment of these two phases to $295 million. Tedlar® films serve as the critical component of photovoltaic backsheets, providing long-term durability and performance for photovoltaic modules in all-weather conditions.
The film line expansion will be located at the DuPont Circleville, Ohio, facility using existing and retrofitted assets. This expansion provides Tedlar® oriented film capacity to support global demand of over 10 gigawatts (GW) of photovoltaic module production. The investment will deliver DuPont technology to help meet increasing needs for energy and environmental sustainability. This reflects the company’s recently announced commitment to focus on meeting four emerging global trends, one of which is decreasing dependence on fossil fuels. Film production is scheduled to start up in September 2011.
“The photovoltaic market increasingly demands materials that enable modules to reliably deliver power for decades,” said David B. Miller, president – DuPont Electronics & Communications. “This major expansion underscores our commitment to maintaining DuPont leadership in the photovoltaic industry and specifically in the backsheet materials market for solar panels.”
The manufacturing steps for Tedlar® oriented film include producing vinyl fluoride (VF) monomer, which is converted into polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) polymer resins, and extruded into the Tedlar® film. DuPont plans to increase monomer and polymer resin capacity by more than 50 percent. Construction is under way for these new monomer and resin facilities at the DuPont Louisville, Ky., and Fayetteville, N.C., sites, respectively, and the facilities are scheduled to start up in mid-2010.
DuPont anticipates that the photovoltaic market will grow rapidly over the next several years, and this growth will drive the demand for Tedlar® and other new materials that increase the lifetime and efficiency of solar cells and modules. DuPont expects that overall sales of its family of products into the photovoltaic industry will exceed $1 billion by 2012.
DuPont™ Tedlar® PVF films have been an essential component of photovoltaic backsheets for more than 25 years. Tedlar® is widely recognized as the industry standard due to its excellent strength, weather resistance, ultraviolet resistance and moisture barrier properties. As a result, Tedlar® enables solar modules to achieve long-life performance providing a long-term sustainable energy source for the marketplace. This results in improved economic returns for investments in solar energy projects and therefore a lower cost of solar electricity to consumers. Tedlar® films also are used in key applications for aerospace, construction and graphics arts because of their durability and weatherability.
DuPont™ Tedlar® PVF films are part of the broad and growing portfolio of products from DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions, which applies DuPont science and technology to support the dramatic growth of the photovoltaic industry globally. To learn more about DuPont Photovoltaic Solutions, visit http://photovoltaics.dupont.com.
DuPont – one of the first companies to publicly establish environmental goals 20 years ago – has broadened its sustainability commitments beyond internal footprint reduction to include market-driven targets for both revenue and research and development investment. The goals are tied directly to business growth, specifically to the development of safer and environmentally improved new products for key global markets.
DuPont is a science-based products and services company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture and food; building and construction; communications; and transportation.
Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements based on management’s current expectations, estimates and projections. The company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements as a result of future developments or new information. All statements that address expectations or projections about the future, including statements about the company’s strategy for growth, product development, market position, expected expenditures and financial results are forward-looking statements. Some of the forward-looking statements may be identified by words like “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “intends,” “projects,” “indicates,” and similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors, including those discussed more fully elsewhere in this release and in DuPont’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, particularly its latest annual report on Form 10-K, as well as others, could cause results to differ materially from those stated. These factors include, but are not limited to changes in the laws, regulations, policies and economic conditions of countries in which the company does business; competitive pressures; successful integration of structural changes, including acquisitions, divestitures and alliances; research and development of new products, including regulatory approval and market acceptance, and seasonality of sales of agricultural products. -
Press Release
January 06, 2010
Columbus Economy Expected to Resume Growth in 2010
Columbus Chamber’s 11th annual Blue Chip Economic Forecast shows growth in business and professional services, healthcare and transportation
For Immediate Release:
Jan. 6, 2010
COLUMBUS, OH – Employment in the region may decline early in 2010, but these declines will be offset by employment growth later in the year, according to the Columbus Chamber’s Blue Chip Economic Forecast released today at the Columbus Metropolitan Club. Year-to-year net is predicted to be 0.1 percent, or 800 jobs, compared to 1.8 percent decrease in 2009. The Columbus Region includes the Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) of Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Pickaway and Union Counties. “Columbus MSA employment declined in 2009, but much less than average,” said Bill LaFayette, Ph.D., vice president, economic analysis, Columbus Chamber. “The region’s loss compares favorably to the likely 3.7 percent U.S. decline. This has been the case throughout the recession.” The strongest labor growth is expected in business and professional services, healthcare and private education, and transportation and utilities. The construction and manufacturing sectors are expected to suffer the largest declines. “Columbus MSA employment should enjoy growth in the second half of the year mostly or completely offsetting declines in the first half,” said Lafayette. “The net effect will be average employment for the year 0.1 percent higher than in 2009.” The 2010 Blue Chip Economic Forecast examines trends in 10 individual sectors. Key findings include:- Greater Columbus employment is expected to grow weakly, at 0.1 percent in 2010.
- Professional services dramatically outperformed the national average during the recession and will hold steady with a gain of 2.7 percent.
- Education, health and social services saw significant growth in 2009 due primarily to the healthcare industry and estimated increased employment in higher education. This trend will continue in 2010, with a 2.0 percent gain.
- Government, leisure and other services and wholesale trade are expected to experience minimal growth.
- Retail employment fared better than average locally during the recession, declining 3.7 percent (3,800 jobs) since December 2007 compared with 6.0 percent nationwide. Although consumer spending will grow with the economy in 2010, the moderate growth rate is likely only to slow employment declines, resulting in a 1.5 percent job loss regionally.
- Manufacturing was down 9.3 percent or 7,100 jobs in 2008, due to the recession. The anticipated moderate growth will slow this decline for a 3.5 percent loss.
- Economic growth should slow the declines in the financial activities industry in 2010, resulting in a 1.6 percent decline.
- Transportation and utilities will outperform the overall economy in 2010 as companies replenish inventories and the Heartland Corridor boosts distribution consolidation in Columbus.
- Construction companies have shed 5,300 jobs (14.3 percent) since the recession began in 2007. Although there are positive signs in the residential construction market, commercial vacancy rates remain high. The forecast calls for a further 4.9 percent decline in this sector.
- Greater Columbus employment is expected to grow weakly, at 0.1 percent in 2010.