Nationwide we often hear of companies falling on hard times and initiating cutbacks to stay solvent. Our Glynn County area has for the most part has dodged the bullet. In fact the manufacturing sector of the area is experiencing steady growth according to the Brunswick and Glynn County Development Authority. A new manufacturer, Innovative Foam Products, is preparing to open a new facility later this year and several established manufacturers are putting new upgrades into their businesses which certainly indicates their commitment to our area for the long haul. Manufacturing businesses and their employees purchase a tremendous amount of goods and services locally which recycles throughout the community. According to a recent survey, 22% of the manufacturer’s in the community participated in the survey and reported a total payroll in excess of $125 million. This area has a diverse economic structure with tourism, manufacturing and government providing job stability even in this uncertain time with the dreaded “R” word (recession) in the news. Just another reason that Glynn County is a great place to call home!

How do we foresee market changes and trends? Certainly nobody has the definite bead on what's ahead and how variables can impact the final result, but trying to recognize growth and current dynamics in a given area is possible.

In our area, we are still experiencing so much development throughout the county even though the real estate sales are down somewhat from this time last year. With the recent dredging done to enhance our channel depth, the Port of Brunswick is deemed to be the fastest growing port in North America. New schools have opened to accommodate the student's growing numbers with even more school sites in the planning stages for the near future. The Jekyll Island Authority's plan to enhance amenities and lodging choices for our guests has everyone very excited about putting our lovely Jekyll back on the map as a convention choice and destination for more guests. If you care to read about the development plans on the table go to www.rediscoverjekyll.com to review. (Thanks to Brian Brodrick for providing that link!) New shopping and dining choices have sprung all over the county, particularly close to exits off I-95. New subdivision communities have given homeowners choices in starter home price points up to upscale areas with high-end features.

All in all, the outlook for Glynn County's future still looks bright. If you have any specific questions or interests regarding the Golden Isles of Georgia, I would be very pleased to attempt to help you.