When it comes to small businesses, there is nothing small about them. They are the engine that drives the American economy. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year.
Here in Georgia, there are more than
1 million small businesses in operation.
Here in Georgia, there are more than 1 million small businesses in operation. They make up 99.6 percent of all businesses within the Peach State and employ 1.6 million of our residents. That’s nearly 44 percent of all Georgia employees.
Georgia’s small businesses come in all shapes and sizes. They are local drug stores like Woody’s Pharmacy in Dahlonega. They offer personal care services like The Barber’s Inn in Lawrenceville. And they are creative startups like Jittery Joe’s coffee roaster headquartered in Athens.
While they differ in many ways, one thing is common to most small businesses: Every dollar counts to keep the business up and running. Energy is just one of the many expenses common to most. Finding a reliable source that’s also inexpensive is essential.
We’re proud to help other small businesses succeed
by supplying reliable, affordable natural gas.
That’s where Walton Gas comes in. As a member of the small business community, we’re proud to help other small businesses succeed by supplying reliable, affordable natural gas. We supply gas that heats store spaces, provides hot water, operates equipment and fuels grills and stovetops for businesses all across the Peach State.
May is National Small Business Month. We’re joining the celebration by saluting the small businesses that have made Georgia a thriving and dynamic place to live and work.
In this post, we’re recognizing six Walton Gas small business customers who inspire us with your dedication and commitment to the communities you serve.
- Dance It Off, Sandy Springs. “Don’t think you are too old for our studio, just think you CAN dance!” is the saying at this unique dance studio that helps adults rediscover their love for dance in a fun, noncompetitive environment. The studio offers dance, cardio and fitness classes that provide strength, balance, stability and health for beginner to intermediate participants. Online and in-studio classes are offered.
- Team Biscuits & Burgers, Athens. Though he says it with a smile and a laugh, Gary Armour means it when he says, “We’re in the people business; we just happen to serve food!” You’ll have to hunt a bit to find this hidden treasure outside of downtown Athens where — true to its name — biscuits and burgers headline the menu. As the red and black décor suggests, the “team” part is a nod to the Bulldogs at the neighboring University of Georgia.
- Alpharetta Outfitters, Alpharetta. Have a big fish story? You’re always welcome to tell it at this unique, not-for-profit business serving fly fishing enthusiasts. “Our mission is to share our passion for fly fishing with every angler—novice or advanced, young or old, man or woman. We are a no-pressure retail team that wants to provide the best product for each customer’s needs, not just what’s best for our pocketbook,” the store’s website declares.
- El Guero Mexican Grill, Lilburn. There is a real El Guero. The Mexico native and father of nine perfected his process for making carnitas before relocating the family to the U.S. in 1996. You’ll still find carnitas, a carmelized pork dish, at the top of a long list of specialty Tex-Mex dishes featured on the El Guero menu. And don’t miss Taco Tuesdays!
- Moores Mill Dental, Atlanta. This family-owned full-service dental practice has been serving Atlanta families since 1975. Husband and wife Eric and Nancy Ferrara, Nancy’s brother Andy Shehata and George Zohrabyan are the team providing a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry as well as oral surgery. Dr. Andy, as he’s known to the practice’s youngest patients, specializes in pediatric dentistry.
- Just B Hair Salon, Duluth & Atlanta. “Hair that slays” is the result of an appointment at this salon that “specializes in all hair services, from color to Keratin.” That’s thanks to a stylist team driven by founder Brayden Pelletier, who is committed to creativity that “fulfills all your hair dreams” to give each client a custom look and feel based on their needs. The salon’s stylists have showcased their talents at events such as New York Fashion Week and MTV’s Video Music Awards.
Want to share your small business story? Contact Walton Gas Communications Coordinator Savannah Chandler at schandler@waltonemc.com.