When it comes to recruiting new companies to relocate, expand or begin operations in Arizona, it’s all about “getting in the game and the closing the deal.”

That was the message delivered at Valley Partnership’s June breakfast before a robust audience at the Phoenix Country Club.

Christine Mackay, Economic Development Director for the City of Chandler served as moderator. The panel featured Justin Meritt, Senior Investment Professional, Southwest Valley Partners; Auguste Goldman, Chief People Office, Go Daddy; and John Lenio, Economist and Managing Director, CBRE.

As the Arizona economy improves, Valley communities are successfully recruiting new companies to bring their business here. CBRE’s Lenio said favorable economic conditions nationally are a key: leading indicators such as the stock market are up, consumer debt is down, net worth is up, and although housing prices have increased they have also leveled off.
How is Arizona doing it?

“It’s all about jobs,” Lenio said. “Real estate is an enabler in the site selection process. In the end it’s all about getting in the game and closing the deal.”

Meritt cited the Continuum development along the Price Corridor in Chandler as a project in which several entities joined forces and talents. In her opening remarks, Mackay spoke of a “pipeline of quality developments” in Chandler. Continuum, Meritt said, fit the bill.

“It’s a quality business park in one of the top office markets in the Valley,” he said.

Goldman shared the success of local company Go Daddy and showed why “we win in Arizona. Talent, impact, culture, and quality of life.”

Goldman said Go Daddy works with instate institutions of learning including ASU, UA, NAU and Thunderbird. When it comes to company culture, the thought is to change the global economy to small business.

“It’s something we should all invest in,” Goldman said.

>> Community Project update



In lieu of the Mayor’s Minute, the Community Project Committee shared two presentations with the audience. Robyn Ratcliff, director at 2014 Community Project recipient Arizona Foundation for the Handicapped addressed the partners. She was followed by a heartwarming rendition of “Good Night Irene” by Bill, one of the clients that AFH serves. Bill received a standing ovation and moved many of the partners. This was the perfect way to introduce the sponsorship opportunities available for the 27th annual community project.
Several partners have already generously signed on to sponsor this year’s project including Norris Design, Rick Engineering, Shift Redevelopment, Small Giants and Cushman & Wakefield of Arizona.

“I received several calls and emails after the breakfast from partners who wanted to support this year’s project and enhance the quality of life for those served by AFH,” said committee co-chair Dena Jones. “I feel so fortunate to work with partners who are committed to giving back to the community and leaving a legacy.”

The 50/50 raffle included four prime tickets to a Dbacks game courtesy of CBRE. The winner donated the cash back to the community project. Another partner came forward after the raffle winner was announced and pledged his company’s Dbacks tickets for the July raffle.

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