Georgia Business Focus: Major projects and new restaurants bring jobs and growth to Middle Georgia
New restaurants, major projects and expanded air service highlight regional economic momentum
Big-name brands and major projects are driving new jobs and growth across Middle Georgia, from Buc-ee’s in Forsyth to new restaurants and expanded air service for Macon and Warner Robins.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Middle Georgia is seeing a surge in business activity, with companies including AutoZone, Chipotle Mexican Grill, and Buc-ee’s leading new development across the region.
This week’s Georgia Business Focus highlights new openings, proposed projects, and economic trends shaping the local economy.
AutoZone, Jack in the Box proposals signal growth in Macon
AutoZone is planning to redevelop the long-vacant Gold Cup Bowling Center site on Pio Nono Avenue in Macon. The company has requested rezoning to combine two parcels totaling 3.37 acres. If approved, the project is expected to create 50 to 60 jobs.
A separate proposal would bring Jack in the Box to Macon by converting a former Hardee’s location on Gray Highway. The Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning Commission is set to consider the request on May 11. If approved, it would be only the second Jack in the Box location in Georgia.
Jack’s Family Restaurants, Chipotle expand dining options
In Milledgeville, Jack’s Family Restaurants has opened a new location on Forest Road, bringing a new dining option and additional jobs to Baldwin County.
In Warner Robins, Chipotle Mexican Grill has opened a new restaurant along Georgia Highway 96. The location includes a Chipotlane drive-thru for digital orders and is expected to create about 30 jobs.
Buc-ee’s, Contour Airlines bring major investment
Construction is underway on a new Buc-ee’s travel center in Forsyth. The location will be the second Buc-ee’s in Middle Georgia and the fourth in Georgia. Plans call for a 74,000-square-foot facility with 100 fuel pumps and at least 200 full-time jobs.
At Middle Georgia Regional Airport, Contour Airlines is expanding service. Starting June 9, the airline will resume flights to Baltimore and launch a new nonstop route to Fort Lauderdale.
Closures and economic challenges remain
Not all business news is growth. A family-owned furniture store, Home Furniture and Mattress, in Warner Robins is closing after 35 years.
Labor market trends also show mixed signals. Unemployment in Middle Georgia rose to 3.7% in January, while initial unemployment claims declined.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Barbara Rivera Holmes said Georgia’s diverse workforce remains a strength for recovery.
Hiring challenges continue for small businesses
A report from the National Federation of Independent Business shows about one in three small businesses are struggling to fill open positions.
Employers continue to face rising labor costs and difficulty finding qualified workers.
Follow our Georgia Business Focus series for ongoing coverage of business growth, economic trends, and major developments across Middle Georgia. Have a story idea? Contact our newsroom.
