Georgia Business Focus: Georgia earns top ranking; Pirelli plans $1.2B expansion
Pirelli plans a $1.2 billion expansion in Rome, while state officials warn about unlicensed pest control operators and retailers announce fall discounts.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Georgia has once again secured its reputation as the top state for business in Area Development magazine’s annual ranking for the twelfth consecutive year. Georgia also pulling in major corporate investments like Pirelli’s $1.2 billion plant expansion.
Georgia maintains top business ranking
Georgia has once again been named the nation’s top state for business. Governor Brian Kemp announced Wednesday that Area Development magazine has ranked Georgia No. 1 for the 12th consecutive year. State leaders credit pro-business policies and a skilled workforce for attracting companies and creating jobs statewide.
Pirelli announces $1.2 billion plant expansion
In major corporate news, Italian tire manufacturer Pirelli will invest $1.2 billion to expand its Rome, Georgia, facility. The company says the project will create 1,000 new jobs—five times its current workforce in the region. The expansion, to be rolled out in two phases, will introduce advanced robotics and traditional manufacturing, with most hiring beginning in 2029 and full operations expected by 2033. Governor Kemp called the move a historic investment and a win for Georgia’s economy.
State warns against unlicensed pest control sales
Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper is warning residents about unlicensed door-to-door pest control operators. The state has seen a rise in reports of unlicensed individuals soliciting business. Harper urges consumers to always ask for a valid pest control license before signing any contracts and reminds residents that Georgia law includes a three-day right to cancel door-to-door contracts. Suspicious activity should be reported to the Georgia Department of Agriculture.
Retailers launch early fall savings
On the retail front, Kohl’s is kicking off holiday savings early with Deal Days from October 5th to 8th, offering up to 50% off seasonal items, extra coupon savings, and free shipping. The retailer’s 2026 Top Toys list features exclusives such as Pokémon and The Grinch, with prices starting at $4.99. Meanwhile, Aldi is cutting prices on about a third of its regular products nationwide, including fall staples like pears and squash, as well as family packs of chicken breast now at their lowest price since 2022. Aldi estimates these cuts will save customers $86 million through at least November 3.
Aldi announces major price cuts
Aldi is cutting prices on about a third of its regular products nationwide, with total savings expected to reach $86 million for shoppers. Fall favorites like pears, Brussels sprouts, and squash are included in the discounts, along with family packs of chicken breast now down to $1.99 a pound—the lowest price since 2022. These price cuts will run through at least November 3, as grocery costs remain high for consumers.
