Doing Business in the U.S.
The U.S.
Tips when Doing Business in the U.S.
Georgia
Companies with Headquarters in Atlanta, GA
Savannah, GA
Doing Business in Savannah, GA
Companies with Headquarters in Savannah, GA
Savannah - a Pearl of the South
The U.S.
The U.S. has a powerful and technologically advanced economy. The economy’s strength lies in its size and diversity: it has a variety of natural resources, including substantial petroleum and natural gas reserves; a vast agricultural sector, producing a variety of crops and livestock; a strong and well-developed industrial base; an advanced service sector; and a highly educated and skilled labor pool.
United States is the World’s largest free trade market. The United States offer excellent infrastructure and high speed data access. The nation also has very strong traditions of education and research, as well as collaboration between business and academics.
Moreover, strong traditions in competition and enterprise have helped to drive the technological innovations that have made the US the world’s leader in computers, software, electronics, and communications technology. The US Dollar is the most widely used currency for international trade and plays an important role to the world’s smaller economies as many peg their own currencies to the dollar.
Being a part of the worlds most democratic and corruption free market gives access to the North and Central America through NAFTA*, the world’s largest free trade area, and CAFTA-DR**, the 2nd largest U.S. export market in Latin America, behind only Mexico.
In the United States there are large number of Americans of Scandinavian origin and a wealth of sister state and sister-city relationships ready to do business with their Swedish counterparts. Swedish exports to the USA are doing extremely well, with many enjoying double-digit growth (e.g. defense and automotive).
Source: US Chamber of Commerce
*North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico
** United States-Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement
The U.S. - An Overview
• 30 times larger than Sweden
• 300 million people
• A leader in every high technology field (IT, medical devices, defense, space technology)
• The world’s most entrepreneurial marketplace made up of 100,000’s of SME companies with which to do business
• Offer ease of doing business due to English-speaking clientele
U.S. Exports & Imports
• Exports: Total value $1.148 trillion (2007 est.)
• Export commodities: Capital goods, automobiles, industrial supplies and raw materials, consumer goods, agricultural products (2007 est)
• Exports partners: Canada 21.4%, Mexico 11.5%, China 5.6, Japan 5.4%, UK 4.3%, Germany 4.3% (2007 est.)
• Imports: Total value 1.968 trillion (200 est.)
• Import commodities: Crude oil and refined petroleum products, machinery, automobiles, consumer goods, industrial raw materials, food and beverages
• Import partners: China 16.9%, Canada 15.7%, Mexico 10.6%, Japan 7.4%, Germany 4.8%(2007est.)
Source: CIA World Factbook 2007
Tips when Doing Business in the U.S.
The size and complexity of the market and American culture impacts on the way Americans conduct everyday business.
For example:
• American business people tend to be very busy. Requests, demands, and dealings with Americans should be brief, succinct, and to the point.
• When making initial contact with an American business, often a telephone call is more effective than a letter. There is a likelihood that a letter will languish on a busy person’s desk beneath a stack of other papers and go unanswered.
• Faxes are widely used. Try to respond to faxes from the U.S overnight. Non-response is seen a lack of interest by American businesses.
• Appointments should be arranged with U.S. businesses well in advance to ensure that key personnel are available and can work you into their often-tight schedules.
• Business is often conducted over breakfast, lunch or dinner. Do not hesitate to initiate such invitations.
• Americans tend to be less formal and less reserved on first contact than many. The use of first names, even between managers and subordinates, is common.
• Tipping is normal and expected in restaurants (15-20% of the bill) and taxi cabs (15% of the fare). If a porter at an airport or a bellhop at a hotel helps you with your bags, you should tip at least $1.00 per bag.
Georgia
Doing Business in Georgia
If you’re looking for geographic variety, a pleasant climate and convenient transportation, there’s no place like Georgia – here you can find it all.
Georgia’s geography is beautiful and diverse. Travel along the coastline and witness the breathtaking beaches and barrier islands that have inspired travelers for generations. Explore the fertile soil of Middle Georgia and experience the rich history and agriculture of this land. Climb into the lush foothills and forests of Georgia’s mountains and breathe the culture and beauty of the Appalachians. Whether you’re all business within our city streets or all play at our outdoor retreats, Georgia delivers exactly what you need.
As a service to the business community in Georgia, Georgia Allies and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) offer a database of all available buildings in Georgia. Looking to re-locate your business? Visit the available buildings search page to learn more.
Move swiftly throughout Georgia’s diverse landscape with our multi-modal transportation system. Need to catch a flight overseas? No problem – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport hosts hundreds of direct flights to cities throughout the U.S. and the world. Looking for an efficient way to move cargo? We’ve got you covered with our convenient railways and the Port of Savannah, the fastest growing port in the nation.
Georgia also enjoys the variety of four seasons. Thanks to the mild Georgia climate, it’s easy to take advantage of all this state has to offer throughout the year.
Explore the endless possibilities, and discover for yourself the many ways Georgia can help fulfill your dreams.
Source: www.georgia.org
Georgia Facts
Nickname: Peach State of the South
Mottos: Wisdom, Justice, and Moderation
Official languages: English
Demonym: Georgian
Capital: Atlanta
Largest city: Atlanta
Area: Ranked 24th in the USA
Total: 59.425 sq mi
Width: 230 miles (370 km)
Length: 298 miles (480 km)
% water: 2,6
Latitude: 30.356-34.985ºN
Longitude: 80.840- 85.605ºW
Population: Ranked 9th in the US
Total: 9,544,750 (2007 est.)
Density: 141.4/sq mi (54.59/km²)
Median income: $43.217 (28th)
Admission to Union: January 2, 1788 (4th)
Governor: Sonny Perdue
Lieutenant Governor: Casey Cagle
U.S. Senators: Saxby Chambliss (R), Johnny Isaksson (R)
Time zone: Eastern: UTC-5/-4
Source: www.georgia.gov
The Georgia Market
Companies seeking a global presence find that Georgia’s integrated logistics network can accelerate success. According to the Porter Study, conducted by Michael Porter of Harvard University, Georgia has the fourth largest logistics hub in the United States. The report cites that the ranking is a result of the state’s Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, outstanding road infrastructure and port facilities.
To efficiently move goods, the state has built a seamless transportation infrastructure including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s leading air cargo center, which handles more than 900,000 tons of cargo each year; state-of-the-art deepwater ports in Savannah and Brunswick that are the fifth largest in the country; more than 130,000 miles of public roads and interstates; and a 4,700-mile rail network. Additionally, three Foreign Trade Zones – in Atlanta, Brunswick and Savannah – allow companies to delay, reduce and, in some cases, eliminate U.S. customs duties on imported items.
Georgia’s location makes it quickly and efficiently for companies to ship their products to nearly any country on the globe. Today, Georgia’s business community includes more than 1,600 internationally owned facilities from 39 countries. Foreign-based firms employ more than 125,000 Georgians and generate an estimated $15.5 billion in capital investment.
Georgia’s Centers of Innovation provides unique, technology-oriented support to businesses and entrepreneurs in the areas of aerospace, agribusiness, energy, life sciences, logistics and advanced manufacturing. Each of the six centers provides direct access to university and technical college applied research, commercialization resources, technology connections, matching grant funds, potential investor networks and government organization. A common goal across all of the centers is to cut red tape, streamline connections and seeks technology solutions to industry-led challenges; within this framework the Centers create a pro-growth, innovative business environment for industries critical to Georgia’s expansion.
Georgia multimedia companies can thrive with access to highly qualified employees trained in the world-class University System of Georgia. Recruit top intellectual talent trained in the newest technologies, such as human computer interaction, video game design and specialized programming at Georgia Tech. If you’re developing innovative multimedia, computer-generated animation, gaming, post production and next generation media formats – you can also recruit talent from multimedia programs at the Atlanta College of Art, the Chubb Institute in Alpharetta, the American InterContinental University, the Savannah College of Art and Design, and the New Media Institute at the University of Georgia.
Companies with Headquarters in Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is placed fifth in the nation among cities with the most Fortune 500 headquarters.
Fortune compiles its annual list of the biggest and best businesses based on 2007 fiscal and calendar year financial performance, focusing on revenue.
The Home Depot Inc. (NYSE: HD) - Home improvement retailer ranked higher than any Georgia company, placing 22nd on the 2008 list with $84.7 billion in revenue. It was ranked 17th on last year’s list.
United Parcel Service Inc. (NYSE: UPS) fell three spots to 46 with $49.7 billion in revenue.
The Coca-Cola Co. (NYSE: KO) moved from 94 last year to 83 in 2008 with $28.9 billion in revenue.
Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc. (NYSE: CCE) stayed flat at 118, with $20.9 billion in revenue.
Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE: DAL), which recently announced merger plans with Northwest Airlines, landed at 129 with $19.2 billion in revenue. It was ranked 136 on the 2007 list.
Aflac Inc. (NYSE: AFL) Columbus, Ga.-based insurer dropped one spot to 165 with $15.4 billion in revenue.
Southern Co. (NYSE: SO) ranked 166 with $15.3 billion in revenue. The Atlanta energy giant came in at 168 last year.
SunTrust Banks Inc. (NYSE: STI) checked in with a ranking of 193 and $13.5 billion in revenue. The bank holding and financial services company placed 183 last year.
Genuine Parts Co. (NYSE: GPC) parked at 243 with $10.8 billion in revenue, compared with its ranking of 244 last year.
Calhoun, Ga.-based flooring products company Mohawk Industries Inc. (NYSE: MHK) ranked 328 with $7.6 billion in revenue. It was at 304 in the 2007 list.
AGCO Corp. (NYSE: AG) placed at 359 with $6.8 billion in revenue. The Duluth, Ga.-based agricultural equipment maker garnered a ranking of 421 in last year’s list.
Newell Rubbermaid Inc. (NYSE: NWL) Consumer products company is ranked 378 with $6.4 billion in revenue. It was 343 last year.
Savannah, GA
Doing Business in Savannah, GA
Savannah is experiencing a rapidly growing—and evolving—economy. This exciting change means opportunity for businesses relocating to or expanding in Savannah.
The Savannah area, located in coastal Chatham County, Georgia, boasts a flourishing economy balanced on a strong foundation that includes a thriving port, increasing tourism, a stabilizing manufacturing sector and significant military presence.
Savannah is also the hub of an 11-county labor draw area with a population of nearly 650,000 and a labor pool of 330,000+.
Savannah has a history of innovation and prosperity. From the invention of the cotton gin on Chatham County’s Mulberry Plantation to the first steam ship to cross the Atlantic Ocean, the Savannah, in 1819, the City of Savannah has long been recognized as location for business.
Businesses, and the people who run them, are welcomed to Savannah with open arms. It is recognized that some people have a perception of the South as closed and clique-y, but Savannah is neither. Especially where business is concerned. Smart, sincere people who care about the community are encouraged and embraced.
Companies with Headquarters in Savannah, GA
Savannah is the proud home of the North and South American headquarters of JCB Inc., a leading manufacturer of heavy construction and agricultural equipment, and Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, the maker of the world’s most technologically advanced business aircraft.
Smaller, but still impressive — especially to anyone into music — Benedetto Guitars, the maker of fine jazz guitars, located their only manufacturing facility in the world in Savannah in 2006,. And, The Gretsch Company has been making their world-famous guitars and drums in the area since the 1980s. There are many other thriving businesses; the latest announcements have included Heineken, Lowe’s, Target and IKEA.
Two major hospital systems employ thousands. And the tourism industry, attracting more than 6 million visitors a year, is booming. New hotel construction is visible on almost every corner.
The influence of the Savannah College of Art and Design has been very positive economically, and not only through the direct impact of students and faculty living and working here. A number of creative and technical businesses have been created by or attracted to the unique talent here. There are 16 other colleges or universities in the area that contribute to this talent pool.
Finally, for those of you who may be interested, there are a number of Fortune 500 and International companies within these various economic sectors.
Fortune 500 Companies in Savannah, GA
CSC
Coca-Cola
Comcast
Cummins Engine
Dollar General
El Paso Energy
General Dynamics (Gulfstream)
Hormel Foods
International Paper
Lowe’s
Owens-Corning
Pepsi Bottling
Southern Company
Target Corporation
The Home Depot
Waste Management
Wellpoint
Weyerhaeuser
International Firms in Savannah, GA
Air Liquid American Corp. France
Doncasters Dubai
Douglas Brothers of Georgia Canada
EMD Chemicals Germany
Evergreen International (USA) Corp. Taiwan
Fuji Vegetable Oil Co. Japan
IKEA Sweden
Indchem, Inc. United Kingdom
JCB Americas United Kingdom
Lummus Corp. Switzerland
Maersk Sealand Denmark
Movsovitz of Georgia United Kingdom
Nippon Express USA, Inc. Japan
Noritake Company, Inc. Japan
Vopak Netherlands
Savannah - a Pearl of the South
Maybe most important, for those of you who may actually be moving with the company, know you will be welcomed here with open arms.
Savannah has a low cost of living (ACCRA: 93.8; US Average = 100), little traffic congestion, a year-round climate perfect for recreation, and all the amenities you could dream of for a prosperous, satisfying life.
According to many, Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most beautiful cities in the country. Residents living in Savannah, Georgia, spend their free time the way other people spend their vacations. And young professionals have made Savannah, Georgia, a destination of choice – trading in major-metro stress and suburban sprawl for the city’s wide range of cool new and old neighborhoods.
With more than 60 in the area, Savannah, Georgia, has over 200% more art galleries per capita than New York City! The Historic District itself is living art, and Savannah, Georgia, also has its fair share of forts and historical sites representative of our nation’s early history.
Savannah residents spend their free time the way other people spend their vacations. Easily mixing business with pleasure and the past with the present is as much a part of the people here as the Spanish moss gracing the tremendous live oak trees. Stay a while, and the same will be true for you.
If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, you’re gonna love our 15 major recreation centers with the largest facility comprising 500 acres packed with tennis courts, an archery range, ball fields, a 27-hole golf course, a soccer complex, weightlifting center, and softball complex.
And you don’t ever have to stop playing thanks to our favorable year-round climate!
