Business World |
February 2015
56
collaboratively to attract new businesses.The
Atlanta area offers many benefits to compa-
nies, including (and possibly the most cru-
cial to the industry) the Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta International Airport; the world’s
busiest passenger airport, serving 150 U.S.
destinations and more than 75 international
destinations in 50 countries.
Mercedes Benz, the acclaimed German auto
manufacturer, recently announced that its
North American headquarters would be re-
locating from New Jersey to Atlanta. Mer-
cedes’ leadership cited ease of access to their
manufacturing facilities in Alabama, a di-
verse and highly educated talent pool of resi-
dents, and the government’s willingness to
work with the company through many tran-
sition factors together creating the perfect
conditions for their move.
Bastian says that not only does the city pres-
ent the ideal environment for businesses large
and small to thrive, but it has also done so
for another major automobile manufacturer.
Porsche AGselected Atlanta as their North
American headquarters, breaking ground in
2013. The site, also referred to as “Aerotrop-
olis Atlanta,” is adjacent to the Hartsfield-
Jackson airport proving ready access for both
passenger and cargo travel for the company.
TV AND FILM SUPPORTING
THE ECONOMY
Another booming aspect of the city’s econo-
my is its entertainment industry; specifically,
film and television. Along with generous tax