Cold-Link Logistics: 84 New Jobs Boost Jones County Economy

POSTED Wednesday, May 24th, 2023

Cold-Link Logistics, in partnership with Mississippi-based Whitestone Transportation, announced their investment of $64 million to construct a new cold storage warehouse and transportation hub. This significant development is projected to create 84 new jobs, reinforcing Jones County as a thriving place for business expansion and investment.

Located near Ellisville, the 200,000-square-foot facility will reside on a spacious 65-acre site, contributing robustly to our local economy and offering immense benefits to existing businesses. Assisted by the Mississippi Development Authority, the City of Ellisville, and Jones County, this project exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving economic growth.

Ross Tucker, President of the Economic Development Authority of Jones County, emphasizes the region’s aggressive site development approach as key to securing this deal. Being “shovel-ready” offered a significant advantage, demonstrating that our commitment to preparation and infrastructure enhancement opens doors for such valuable partnerships.

Cold-Link Logistics President and Founder Michael Mandich, expresses enthusiasm about the expansion to Jones County, highlighting the company’s intent to support both current and prospective customers throughout the state and southeast. The new facility will serve local producers, responding to their growth needs and contributing to community development.

This partnership with Whitestone Transportation will bolster local producers’ operations, offering cost-saving benefits and increased efficiency. The facility will bridge producers and their customers more effectively, affirming our belief in the power of strategic partnerships and the opportunities they bring.

Construction work is slated to begin later this year, with a groundbreaking ceremony in mid-June. This project signifies Jones County’s continued growth and affirms our commitment to fostering a pro-business environment. As we welcome this new investment and the job opportunities it brings, we are more optimistic than ever about the future of our thriving business community.

Stay tuned for more updates on this promising development. Together, let’s celebrate the growth and prosperity of Jones County.

Top 5 Strategies for Small Businesses to Recruit New Employees

POSTED Monday, May 15th, 2023

As a small business owner, recruiting top talent is integral to your business’s success. Attracting the right people to your team can sometimes feel daunting, especially when competing with larger corporations with seemingly endless resources. However, small businesses offer unique advantages that can be leveraged in the recruitment process. Here are our top 5 strategies for small businesses to attract and recruit new employees.

1. Leverage Your Unique Company Culture

Small businesses often have a distinct and close-knit company culture that larger corporations can’t emulate. Potential employees are attracted to workplaces where they feel they can significantly impact and build meaningful relationships with their coworkers. Highlight your company’s culture in job postings, on your website, and during interviews to attract like-minded candidates.

2. Offer Competitive Benefits

While you may not be able to match the salaries larger corporations offer, consider offering other competitive benefits. This could include flexible work hours, remote work options, professional development opportunities, or additional vacation time. These benefits often appeal to job seekers looking for work-life balance and personal growth.

3. Utilize Social Media and Online Platforms

Social media isn’t just for marketing your products or services – it’s also an effective recruitment tool. Regularly posting about job openings on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, or even Instagram can get the word out to potential candidates. Additionally, ensure your business has a presence on online job boards to reach a wider audience.

4. Develop an Employee Referral Program

Your existing employees can be your best recruiters. They understand your business and likely know others in the industry who would be a good fit. Consider implementing an employee referral program that incentivizes staff who refer successful candidates.

5. Network Locally

As a small business, you have deep connections within your local community. Utilize local networking events, industry meetups, and Chamber of Commerce gatherings to meet potential candidates. Not only will this give you access to a pool of potential employees, but it also increases your business’s visibility within the community.

Recruiting new employees is an ongoing process vital to your business’s growth. By leveraging your unique advantages as a small business and using these strategies, you can attract top talent to help your business thrive. Remember, it’s not just about finding a candidate with the right skills but also finding someone who aligns with your company’s culture and values. Happy recruiting!

The Power of Small Businesses

POSTED Monday, May 1st, 2023

The Power of Small Businesses: Shaping Economic Development and Quality of Life in Jones County, MS

In Jones County, Mississippi, small businesses are more than just a local source of goods and services – they are the lifeblood of our community’s economy and the foundation of our quality of life. With a bustling landscape of diverse small businesses, Jones County has become a shining example of the benefits these enterprises bring to the community. In this blog post, we’ll explore the impact of small businesses on overall economic development and the quality of life for our citizens.

Economic Development:

  1. Job Creation: Small businesses are known as the nation’s leading job creators, which is true in Jones County. By providing employment opportunities, small businesses contribute to a stable economy and help reduce unemployment rates.
  2. Local Economic Growth: Small businesses keep money circulating within the community, as a significant portion of their revenue is reinvested locally. This results in a multiplier effect, where each dollar spent generate additional economic activity, leading to increased growth and prosperity for Jones County.
  3. Innovation and Competitiveness: Small businesses often act as incubators for new ideas, products, and services. By nurturing innovation and competition, they help drive the local economy forward, ensuring Jones County remains attractive for businesses and residents.

Quality of Life:

  1. Unique Character and Identity: Small businesses contribute to Jones County’s distinct character and identity by offering one-of-a-kind products and personalized services. This creates a sense of community pride and fosters a positive atmosphere, enhancing the overall quality of life.
  2. Community Support and Engagement: Small businesses are typically more involved in local initiatives and events, such as charitable giving, sponsorships, and volunteering. Their investment in the community strengthens social bonds and fosters a sense of belonging among residents.
  3. Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Practices: Small businesses often prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly practices, as they are more in tune with the local community’s needs. This focus on sustainability helps protect the environment and contributes to a healthier, more vibrant Jones County.

The impact of small businesses on economic development and quality of life in Jones County is undeniable. From job creation to fostering a unique community identity, these enterprises play a vital role in shaping the future of our community. As we celebrate National Small Business Week, let’s take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of our local small business owners and pledge to support them all year round. By doing so, we can ensure a thriving, prosperous, and vibrant Jones County for generations to come.