On Thursday, January 30th, the 2025 Maury Alliance Annual Meeting brought over 300 business and community leaders together at the Memorial Building in Columbia, TN. This event, presented by First Farmers & Merchants Bank, offered an opportunity to celebrate achievements, network, and transition our volunteer leadership. We are grateful for the support of our Silver Sponsors: Ascend Federal Credit Union, Atmos Energy, Duck River Electric, Fast Stop Markets, Harmon Scrap Metal, MapleTronics, PBS, Puckett’s Restaurant, The Farm at Golston Hill, Verity IT, and Zion Christian Academy.
A special thank you to our vendors who played a vital role in the success of this event. Our caterers included BAMFoods Catering, ItsChefJess, Vida Nova Coffee Lounge, Savarino’s Bakery, Pie Sensations, and the Dooley Bros, who provided delicious food and beverages for our guests. Additional vendors included Chris Jones – State Farm for the amazing 360 photobooth, Festive and Flair for the beautiful balloon arrangements, Southern Events Party Rental Company, and AMPED Sound and Lighting, which ensured the event was perfect. We also want to thank The Swanky South Duo for providing the fantastic entertainment that added a lively atmosphere to the evening and Scott Cantrell, the amazing magician who left us all in awe with his mind-blowing performances! A heartfelt thank you to the Staff, Board, Ambassadors, and Youth Leadership Maury graduates for their exceptional support with this event.
The 2025 Annual Meeting held special significance as we marked the conclusion of our 100th anniversary year. Outgoing Chair Stephen Hughes, Incoming Chair Richard Law, and President and CEO Wil Evans each shared remarks highlighting our journey, accomplishments, and vision for the future.
2024: A Year of Milestones
Economic Development Highlights
Maury County experienced significant economic growth in 2024 with four major announcements:
- Prinova (formerly Armada Nutrition LLC), a leading manufacturer in nutritional powder production expanded its production in Spring Hill.
- Landmark Ceramics UST, Inc., tile production company expanding its manufacturing facility in Mount Pleasant.
- OPmobility, a sustainable mobility and worldwide technology partner expanded its facility in Spring Hill.
- Petainer Manufacturing USA, Inc., a global packaging company established its new location in Mount Pleasant.
Together, these projects brought $89.9 million in capital investments and created 349 new jobs.
Record-Breaking Programs
- Ribbon Cuttings: We celebrated 54 ribbon cuttings, a new record for our chamber.
- Local First Gift Cards: We sold $61,655 in gift cards, keeping over $250,000 circulating within Maury County.
- Membership Growth: 105 new members joined in 2024, bringing our total membership to 634.
Long-Term Growth Trends
Over the past decade, Maury County has seen impressive economic growth:
- Average annual income grew by 41%.
- Median household income rose by 56%.
- Retail sales expanded by 79%.
Honoring Dedication
This year, we were thrilled to introduce three new awards to further recognize the outstanding contributions of our members:
- Emerging Young Professional Award: Awarded to Victoria Sullivan, honoring her exceptional leadership, dedication, and potential as a rising star in Maury County.
- Most Engaged Member Award: Presented to First Farmers & Merchants Bank for their remarkable involvement and commitment to chamber initiatives.
- Centennial Member Recognition: Celebrating Columbia Machine Works and The Daily Herald for their enduring support and impact, aligning with the theme of our 100th anniversary.
Outgoing Chair Stephen Hughes presented the 2024 Chairman’s Award for Volunteerism to Russ Adcox, recognizing his exceptional service to Maury County.
Kara Williams honored Tina Adams as the 2024 Ambassador of the Year for her outstanding contributions.
These awards reflect our gratitude for the individuals and organizations that continue to make Maury County a vibrant and thriving community.
Meet the 2025 Volunteer Leadership Team
- Board Chair: Richard Law – Baird – The Parker Group
- Chair-Elect: Seth Blanks – Highland Corporation
- Past-Chair: Stephen Hughes – First Farmers & Merchants Bank
- Treasurer: Caleb Mathis – Chick-fil-A
- Chamber Council Chair: Michael Parks Lawrence – Parks Motor Sales
- Economic Development Council Chair: Michael Franks – Tristar Bank
Acknowledging Creativity and Support
We extend our gratitude to Visual Media Co. for capturing moments from this memorable event. Some highlights are featured below, with the full gallery available here.
Special thanks go to our talented table decorators, whose creativity elevated the event. Congratulations to the 2025 Table Award Winners:
- Best All Around: Baird – The Parker Group
- Most Creative: Fast Stop
Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the 2025 Maury Alliance Annual Meeting. Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and community impact!
