Canadian consul calls Macon an ‘international city’

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) –  The Pure Flavor company and Irving Consumer Products are leaving the Great White North to expand their businesses more than 1900 miles south here in Middle Georgia.

Canadian Consul Nadia Theodore says it’s definitely no coincidence. In the eyes of international investors, Middle Georgia has two faces.

“Not only is Macon a small town warm feel city, but it’s also an international city,” Theodore said.

It’s because of those features that Canadian companies feel confident in expanding their businesses here.

“We have dozens of Canadian companies located all across our state,” said Mary Waters, Deputy Commissioner of International Trade in Georgia. “I think the quality of life is what seals the deal for them,” said Mayor Robert Reichert.

Two corporations–Pure Flavor in Peach County and Irving Consumer Products–announced their big moves to the area within just a few days of one another.

“This is almost like serendipity to have those Canadian companies here and then today to be visited today by the Canadian Consul General,” said Mayor Reichert.

Waters, says their reason for coming here is simple.

“The international investment story and the international trade story for Georgia is statewide. It’s communities like Macon that have the talented work force, they’ve got the facilities, they’ve got the hospitality, the culture and the quality of life,” she added.

It’s all about appearances and the aspects of community that can’t be found anywhere else.

“They have decided to do that because of the warmth and hospitality here in Macon and the opportunities that this city brings for them.”

Those two companies combined will bring several hundred jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars into the Middle Georgia community.

Mayor Robert Reichert says even with Consul Theodore stationed in Atlanta, he plans to continue strengthening those international ties.