Growth Summit strikes a confident note about Grand Strand business
More than 100 people attended to hear business experts speak on a variety of topics, and the event included an afternoon real estate summit for the first time.
Representatives of all sectors of business, local government, academia and real estate throughout the Grand Strand area were in attendance. The speakers covered a wide range of topics including the regional economic outlook; the economic effects of natural disasters; renewable energy and sustainable construction; the outlook for commercial development; and the economic impact of bicycle tourism.
Reporting on the regional outlook, Rob Salvino, Ph.D., associate director of CCU's Grant Center of Real Estate and Economic Development, told the audience, "The future will be determined largely by how we are able to leverage our region's natural advantages with a long-range vision to enhance the quality of life for residents and tourists alike."
Dennis Wade, president and CEO of the Jackson Companies, remarked, "The retail segment of the Grand Strand commercial real estate market continues to grow with over 1.4 million square feet of retail space added in the last 10 years. As our resident population grows and we further evolve into a year-round tourism destination, we will be successful in attracting desirable tenants and industry to our markets."
Tony Grant, who is honorary world president of The International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI), commented, "By any global standard, the Coastal Carolina region is blessed with a remarkable combination of attributes. It has a coastline, countryside and waterways of great natural beauty. And South Carolina has its own special history and heritage. Local people are amazingly hospitable, courteous and warmly welcoming, and visitors who come here enjoy exceptional value for money."
Grant called for the creation of a strong brand for the entire region aimed specifically toward visitors and investors from overseas.
About the E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration
The E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration has more than 2,000 undergraduate students across six degree programs, 90 graduate (Master of Business Administration and Master of Accountancy) students and more than 8,000 alumni around the world.
About the Grant Center for Real Estate and Economic Development
The Grant Center for Real Estate and Economic Development serves students and professionals engaged in all facets of real estate and economic development. It provides market analysis, study-based scholarships, networking opportunities, internships and technical study tours of international sites.
The key mission is to support the education of its students to the highest levels of competence and professionalism, as well as broaden the economic base of the region, serving as a bridge between the University and the wider community.