Three manufacturers, three small businesses, one hotel and one nonprofit were recognized Thursday during the Savannah Chamber of Commerce’s annual business awards luncheon.
Each year the chamber hands out awards to businesses and entrepreneurs who represent major sectors of Savannah’s economy, namely small business, large industry and tourism.
For the small business side, gift and gourmet food company Edibelles won Small Business of the Year. In a short introductory video, owner Madeline Warren said she hopes to make gift giving fun, easy and affordable for a range of clients.
Entrepreneur of the Year went to custom blend and seasonings store The Salt Table, started by Carol and David Legasse more than three years ago.
“We believe in partnerships, and I don’t just mean signing a contract, I mean working with others to bring the best out of the community,” said David Legasse. “We find that by bringing people together, it makes for a much more satisfying experience for the shopper and the tourist as well.”
The Salt Table offers more than 600 products at its location at 51 Barnard St., using recipes created by Carola Legasse.
Also recognized was Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. for the World Trade Center Savannah International Business of the Year.
“We’ve seen our international presence grow but also our international dominance,” said Gulfstream’s Jay Neely during their short video. “More than half our business is international.”
Another rising star recognized this year was the nonprofit Healthy Savannah for its efforts in promoting healthier lifestyles. In fact, the theme for Thursday’s lunch and business expo was “Healthy Savannah is Healthy Business,” and attendees were treated to lighter-than-usual fare of grilled chicken salads and fruit cups.
Paula Kreissler, director of Healthy Savannah, said they had raised their profile over the last year thanks to the LEAN community-wide weight-loss challenge and receiving a $150,000 grant to combat childhood obesity.
“We’ve been doing this for seven years, and it seems like this last year we have gained a lot of momentum,” she said. “It’s awesome. The social movement has taken root for a healthier Savannah.”
Following the awards ceremony, Bill Hubbard, the chamber’s president and CEO, and other business leaders cut the ribbon for the business expo on the floor of the Civic Center.
“Recognizing the people and communities that help our economy succeed is the main focus of the Business Awards,” said Hubbard in a statement. “We are thankful to these companies for their dedication to serving our area.”
Other awards presented Thursday:
• Environmental Excellence Award — DIRTT Environmental Solutions.
• Helen V. Head, Small Business Advocate Award - Ruel Joyner/24e.
• Hospitality Business of the Year Award — The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa.
• Manufacturer’s Safety Awards — Johnson Matthey.