Business
Xtend Healthcare announces $550K expansion for Hendersonville facility
Xtend Healthcare Advanced Revenue Solutions representatives will invest $550,000 to expand its Hendersonville, Tenn. facility, creating 48 new, full-time jobs in Sumner County.
“I appreciate Xtend Healthcare recognizing Tennessee’s exceptional business climate and choosing to expand in Sumner County. “Incumbent industries continue to drive job creation throughout the state, and we are focused on doing all we can to position them for growth and success,” Hagerty said.
Xtend Healthcare offers revenue cycle management services to hospitals and doctors, which includes patient admitting, medical record consulting and coding, billing, and collections. The company, located at 500 W. Main Street in Hendersonville, provides support to clients in the healthcare industry nationwide.
“We are very gratified that our business continues to grow in Hendersonville. “Our goal is to have the best trained and qualified workforce that provides our comprehensive array of solutions, including business office, consultation, coding and accelerated recovery services to our customers,” Xtend Healthcare President Howard Kirshner said.
“It is great that the Xtend corporate headquarters continues to expand here in Hendersonville as it provides its services throughout the United States. “We are excited to see another corporate neighbor invest their time, money and efforts in Hendersonville,” Mayor Scott Foster said.
Xtend Healthcare is currently seeking qualified candidates to help expand their Hendersonville call center operations. Interested persons should contact Vickie Harris at vharris@xtendhealthcare.net.
Tennessee ranked #4 in “Best States for Business”
Chief Executive Magazine ranks Tennessee 4th in the nation when it comes to best states to do business in 2013. Among Tennessee’s strengths in the competition are a high quality workforce, low tax burden and low cost of living.
“TN has excellent people for manufacturing and can attract high quality professionals. It has a very high quality of living and a low cost of living. Logistics are great with great access to a larger percentage of the population within an 8 hour truck haul.”
“Tennessee has no state income taxes, which is a huge plus.” “TN has a very friendly governor and administration toward business.”
The magazine also cites a pro-business environment and recent worker’s compensation reforms as making our state “shine even brighter.”
“We find several states today as ‘real comers.’ This is especially true with Kentucky, Louisiana, North Dakota, Montana and Tennessee (although it has been on a fast track somewhat longer than the others).”
“VA, NC, MD, and TN all have strong business climates and excellent educational systems. They promote business. They want to and do help ongoing and new business.”
“North Carolina and TN seem to be pro business.”
Stone,Rudolph & Henry mark Green Certification with ribbon cutting
Stone, Rudolph & Henry PLC celebrates their Green Certification in Green Ribbon Cutting with Clarksville Mayor Kim McMillan & Montgomery County Mayor Carolyn Bowers.
Stephen Springer, a principal at Stone, Rudolph & Henry responded: “First, I thought the classes were excellent and wish everyone in the office could have attended. Our biggest issue is paper and what to do with it. All of our clients bring us paper. We had to look at what we could do in the process to keep from producing more paper. Even before the classes we had started using multiple computer screens rather than printing everything out to review. About 99 percent of what we do is now filed electronically. We have increased the use of electronic communication in the office and with clients. All the junk mail and shredding that we once threw away is now recycled. We were able to cut our trash container in half and still don’t fill it up. In addition, we stopped providing bottled water to employees and installed a water filter system so employees use reusable cups.”
Bowers also asked about any energy initiatives that had taken place.
“We had an energy audit done by the Clarksville Department of Electricity and now regulate our thermostats, added some insulation to our exterior walls including our outlet covers, have our filters changed more often and started energy reduction initiatives with employees, explained Springer.
“I’m proud all of you for doing this and keep up the good work, said Bowers.”
City of Clarksville Mayor Kim McMillan also praised their work and asked, “How are your workplace changes translating to what the employees do in their homes?”
“When asked about this at one of our office meetings we found that many are recycling and doing other things at their residences that go right along with our initiatives at work. Another thing we did was go from large trash cans to small cans as a visual to encourage less trash and more recycling,” Springer replied.
Managing Principal Thomas Henry asked about the possibility of curbside recycling. Clarksville Mayor Kim McMillan explained it is something that had been looked at but that there is a major expense involved. She pointed out that there are private companies that can accommodate residences, to which Chamber of Commerce Vice President Melinda Shepard added those companies were listed on the Chamber web site.
“For our family it began with my daughter who was part of Bi-County’s Sango Recycling Team. Now she is a senior in high school and we’ve been doing it that long in our home,” said Steve Springer.
Marketing Director Shea Bradford later added, “Our trash has gone down so much in the business we are considering downsizing to only roll out garbage can.” Stone, Rudolph and Henry is a full service public accounting and consulting firm that has served clients in Tennessee and across the nation for almost 60 years with accounting, auditing, tax planning and preparation, business consulting and technology services. For more info about Stone, Rudolph & Henry, PLC visit www.srhcpas.com . If your business has an interest in learning more about the Clarksville-Montgomery County Green Certification Program email Michelle Newell at manewell@mcgtn.net or call 931-245-1867.
Yoga in the Park cancelled temporarily due to park flooding.
Clarksville Parks & Recreation has issued a public notice of cancellation for a River Front Park event. The cancellation results from the excessive rainfall of the past weekend.
Due to last weekend’s extreme rain and flooding, Yoga in the Park will be temporarily cancelled. Yoga in the Park is a free yoga program that usually takes place on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to 7 a.m. at McGregor Park.
Parks that are currently closed for flooding will be evaluated today in hopes of having a projected reopening date.
For more details on Yoga in the Park, please contact the Clarksville Parks and Recreation at 931-645-7476 or visit www.cityofclarksville.com.
Omega Plastics expanding its Clinton headquarters
Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty along with Omega Plastics officials announced today the company will expand its corporate headquarters in Clinton, Tenn., investing $8.2 million and adding 80 new positions in Anderson County.
“The importance of incumbent industries in Tennessee cannot be understated. “Expansions by companies like Omega Plastics reaffirm the business-friendly climate our state offers and demonstrate our competitiveness in today’s global marketplace. I appreciate Omega Plastics’ continued investment in Anderson County and its quality workforce,” Hagerty said.
“The support we have received from the city of Clinton, Anderson County, TVA, Clinton Utilities Board and the state of Tennessee has been amazing. “All of these entities consistently demonstrate that they want businesses in the community and do everything possible to create a business friendly environment. The quality and availability of a motivated labor force is exceptional. The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development has been a major factor in our decision to expand in Clinton instead of going elsewhere. They continually strive to help current businesses as well as recruit new businesses to the area,” Stephen J. Redwine, Omega Plastics chief executive officer, said.
A world leader in plastics extrusion molding solutions for prototype and low-volume production, Omega Plastics supplies a global client base in medical, consumer packaging, automotive, and security and safety productions. The Clinton expansion will add an additional 85,000 square feet, more than doubling its current facility in the Carden Farm Industrial Park.
“Omega Plastics has been an asset to our community since they arrived in 1996. “Despite the recent economic downturn, Omega Plastics has remained a strong and successful player in their industry. Once again, this announcement reflects the efforts of our economic development partners that work with our existing industries to create jobs and investment in our city,” said Clinton Mayor Scott Burton.
“Omega Plastics is tangible proof of the power of American manufacturing. Their state-of-the-art facility, their commitment to customer relationships and their continued hard work has enabled them to expand. I am proud and extremely thankful they chose to grow their business in Anderson County with the help of our local workforce. This exciting expansion is also a testament to the commitment by our economic development team to assist existing industries,” Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank added.
“TVA and Clinton Utilities Board congratulate Omega Plastics on their expansion in Clinton. “We are privileged to be partners with the state of Tennessee and the Anderson County Economic Development Association to assist existing industries that provide new investments and quality jobs,” John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of economic development, said.
UWT Logistics to Expand Memphis facilities
Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty along with UWT Logistics announced today plans to expand the company’s facilities on East Holmes Road in Memphis, Tenn. The expansion represents a $4.8 million investment by UWT Logistics and will create 81 new full-time jobs.
“Tennessee’s global transportation systems provide unsurpassed efficiency and proximity to customers throughout the U.S. and around the world. “Companies like UWT Logistics understand the competitive edge that our solid infrastructure and pro-business environment offer. I appreciate the continued investment UWT Logistics is making in Shelby County and its citizens,” Hagerty said.
“At UWT Logistics, we are committed to making a difference in Memphis though our core values of family, excellence and growth. We have a team in place that does the family-thing well, both internally and in our community. We continue to strive for excellence both in service to our customers and in being diligent with our resources. With those values in place, the table is set for growth. “We are focused on expanding our footprint in the city of Memphis by bringing in new customers, offering more services and adding the right people to our family. We are grateful for the state of Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, the Greater Memphis Chamber, the Economic Development Growth Engine for Memphis and Shelby County, and other local economic development agencies for their support in reaching our goal,” UWT Chief Financial Officer David Ozier said.
“This is another significant step forward in our efforts to provide jobs and strengthen our local economy,” Memphis Mayor AC Wharton said.
“UWT Logistics personifies what it means to be great corporate citizens. In everything they do, you can see that they have a great passion for Memphis and its people. “The jobs they are creating in some of the poorest neighborhoods of the city are making a real difference in the lives for some of the people in our community that need it most,” Senior Vice President of the Memphis Chamber Mark Herbison said.
UWT Logistics is a world leader in supply chain services, helping manufacturers and retail distributors achieve competitive advantage in the storage, control and transportation flow of product since 1990 when Calvin Ozier purchased the company. Ozier’s three sons manage UWT Logistics along with a staff who strive to achieve excellence and growth through family-oriented relationships. To learn more about UWT Logistics, please visithttp://uwtlogistics.com.
SERVPRO announces expansion for Gallatin headquarters
Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty along with SERVPRO officials announced plans to expand the company’s corporate headquarters on Industrial Blvd. in Gallatin, Tenn. The expansion represents a $6.7 million investment by SERVPRO and will create 90 new, full-time jobs in Sumner County.
“SERVPRO has been a valued corporate citizen of Gallatin for 25 years, and the company illustrates how existing industries provide a solid foundation for all job creation in the state. “Being able to not only adapt, but grow, in today’s uncertain economic environment is a testament to SERVPRO’s operations and speaks highly of Tennessee’s attractive business climate and quality workforce,” Hagerty said.
“SERVPRO has been blessed with ongoing growth during these trying economic times. “Our growth is attributed to an excellent team of employees who are passionate about serving our Franchise Community. I am proud that a significant percent of our employees also live in Sumner County. We appreciate the support we have received over the years from the Gallatin Economic Development Agency. The recent award from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development will help us expand our operations in Sumner County,” said Sue Steen, Chief Executive Officer of Servpro Industries, Inc.
As a leading provider of fire and water damage restoration services, SERVPRO’s Gallatin campus includes the corporate team, national call center, warehouse, manufacturing facility and franchisee training center. SERVPRO’s professional services network consists of more than 1,600 individually owned and operated franchises that respond to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events.
“Gallatin is privileged to have the SERVPRO family and its corporate headquarters in our City. “SERVPRO’s expansion is indicative of the opportunities that exist in Gallatin for businesses to grow and thrive,” said Mayor Jo Ann Graves.
“It’s exciting to watch as SERVPRO announces yet another expansion to their corporate headquarters. “This constant growth reinforces Gallatin’s reputation for its business friendly reputation. SERVPRO returns our support by being a leading corporate citizen in Gallatin. We are extremely thankful they are here,” added James Fenton, Executive Director for the Gallatin Economic Development Agency.
SERVPRO is ranked No. 7 on Entrepreneur’s 2013 Franchise 500 list of America’s top franchise opportunities and No. 5 on Forbes’ Top 20 Franchises for the Buck.
Governor Haslam announces MTD Consumer Grp expands Martin operations
Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty along with MTD Consumer Group Inc. officials announced today the company will expand operations at its Martin, Tenn. facility, adding 225 positions in Weakley County.
“I want to thank MTD Consumer Group for their investment in Tennessee and for the new jobs they are creating in Weakley County. “Our Jobs4TN strategy includes a focus on existing businesses already operating in state, and today’s announcement from MTD is a step toward our goal of making Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs,” Haslam said.
“MTD has been an important part of Weakley County’s business landscape for over 25 years, and a leader in the global market for 80 years. “The Martin expansion underscores the significant job creation incumbent industries bring to our state, and I appreciate MTD’s continued confidence in the area’s superior workforce,” Hagerty said.
MTD is a global manufacturer of residential and commercial outdoor power equipment. The MTD Martin campus consists of a lean manufacturing facility with stamping, welding and assembly, along with logistics.
Weakley County Economic Development Board President & CEO Ronnie Price cited the impact of the expansion on the area workforce.
“The Weakley County Economic Development Board is pleased that MTD is expanding its Martin operations and bringing much needed jobs to our area. “MTD’s commitment to this project shows their confidence in the local workforce and management team. MTD is an excellent corporate citizen and we are excited about the expansion,” Price said.
“The City of Martin appreciates MTD and the good relationship we have had over the years. We are elated with MTD’s announcement of expansion and growth here in Martin. “MTD is a great community partner, and they are active and engaged in many events in Martin, especially our Tennessee Soybean Festival,” Mayor Randy Brundige said.
2013 Tennessee Smart Start Guide now available
Thinking of starting a small business in Tennessee? Be sure and check out the newly updated Tennessee Smart Start Guide.
The guide is an informational resource for small businesses and start-ups addressing topics such as business planning, licensing, insurance, regulations, financing options and more.
Please be sure and update the link if you are currently linking to an older version of the guide on your website.
Check out the Business Enterprise Resource Office’s webpage for the latest updates and for questions, email: ecd.bero@tn.gov.
Govneror, ECD join Windham Professional announcing TN operations expansion
Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bill Hagerty joined Windham Professionals officials Tuesday in announcing operations expansion at its two Tennessee locations. The expansions will add an additional 150 positions in Alcoa, Tenn. and 95 positions in Hendersonville, Tenn. and represents an investment of $500,000.
“Existing industry expansions are key to growing our state’s economy and helping us reach our goal of becoming the No. 1 state in the Southeast for high quality jobs. “I want to thank Windham for its investment, and I appreciate the company’s continued commitment to our state and the jobs provided to our citizens,” Haslam said.
Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam
“We identified business services and call centers as one of the key sectors where Tennessee holds a unique competitive advantage. “Our state offers a pro-business environment, low costs and a strong technology infrastructure, and I am pleased our business recruitment efforts in these important sectors are yielding results. Congratulations to Windham on its continued success and growth in Tennessee,” Hagerty said.
“All of us at Windham Professionals are excited to be a part of both the business communities in Hendersonville and Alcoa. “The high quality of our current staff in both locations indicates to us that we have additional opportunity to grow our operations in Tennessee. At Windham Professionals, our focus is to be the employer of choice for call center staff. We perform extensive training and development to insure that every new employee in Hendersonville and Alcoa has the tools to become successful in their jobs. This staff investment is critical to our continued success. It is gratifying to be made to feel welcome to these great communities, Erin Zaldastani, president and CEO of Windham Professionals said.
“We are honored that Windham Professionals continues to grow its corporate workforce and to fill its new Class A regional headquarters with over 300 employees. “They are an integral part of Hendersonville, and we couldn’t be more excited of their continued success,” Hendersonville Mayor Mayor Scott Foster said.
“As we position our city for economic growth, we are reminded once again through Windham’s expansion that your best customer is your existing customer. “Windham is a great corporate partner and this speaks once again to what a great place Hendersonville is to do business,” Don Long, Hendersonville’s director of Economic and Community Development said.
“Windham’s workforce is from throughout Sumner County, and it is rewarding when our citizens have new job opportunities,” said Paula DeBerry, chairman of Forward Sumner Economic Partnership.
“I wish to commend Windham Professionals for this additional investment in the labor force in Blount County. “It really shows how much this area is growing. Economically we are well above our pre-recession levels, and these expansions only make this area stronger as it shows our overall commitment keeping businesses here,” Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell said.
“When Windham Professionals set up operations here around two years ago, we knew this was a good fit for Alcoa, and they have been a leader in the community. “These high quality, well-paying jobs are what drives our local economy and makes this a great place to work and live. Congratulations to Windham Professionals, and we wish them continued success,” Alcoa Mayor Don Mull said.
Since 1982, Windham has been a leader in the collections industry, helping clients realize new revenue streams. Windham is headquartered in Salem, NH with a regional headquarters at its Hendersonville, Tenn. location.
To apply for the newly created positions and for more information, please visit: www.windhampros.com
