Representative:

Shane Gottwals, Owner of Gottwals Books and CEO of the Walls of Books Franchise

 

About the Company:

Gottwals Books is a chain of new and used bookstores where customers can trade books, enjoy great discounts and where college text books are bought and sold. They employ 20

  • They host events featuring authors, prizes, giveaways and story times for kids
  • Gottwals now has 17 locations nationwide, 13 of which are franchises under the name of Walls of Books
  • Last year they invested $800,000 in a new facility and at 45K s/f, increased their quality and quantity of books they can offer. Internet sales have increased >50% since moving into this new facility.
  • Gottwals has worked with the Peach County DA, Robins Regional Chamber, the cities of Byron and Perry and the SBDC.

ATLANTA – March 19— Gotwalls Books was recognized by the state of Georgia as a Small Business Rock Star today at a luncheon hosted by the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) and the Georgia Economic Developers Association (GEDA).

“What an honor it is to celebrate Georgia’s Small Business Rock Stars during the state’s annual Small Business Week,” said Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Anytime that we can put a spotlight on Georgia’s small businesses is a win-win for the state. These companies keep our economy thriving, and help Georgia maintain its status as the No.1 state in the nation in which to do business.”

This year’s Small Business Rock Stars winners include: AKESOgen, Inc. from Gwinnett County; STRAND Clinical Technologies from Columbia County; Gottwals Books from Peach County and SouthLife Supply Co. from Thomas County.

“With almost 98 percent of Georgia companies employing fewer than 100 people, small business has a tremendous impact on Georgia’s economy,” said GDEcD Director of Entrepreneur & Small Business Mary Ellen McClanahan. “The Rock Star recognition provides the perfect opportunity to showcase how important small businesses are to the state and of course, the local economy.”

These companies have shown increases in revenue, sales, exporting, product lines, jobs and economic impact. Additionally, the Small Business Rock Stars have shown dedication to their entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and a unique approach to conducting business to take them to the next level.

Governor Nathan Deal declared March 19-23 as Georgia Small Business Week to celebrate the achievements made my small businesses throughout the state.

“GEDA supports all types of economic development where jobs and investment are created, and where the quality of life is improved for our citizens,” said GEDA President Kevin Shea. “We are proud to support small businesses of all sizes through our members and their organizations all over the State of Georgia. Congratulations to this year’s award-winning small businesses.”

The Georgia Department of Economic Development’s small business efforts and outreach are directed by GDEcD Director of Entrepreneur & Small Business Mary Ellen McClanahan.  To access more information about these programs and more visit www.georgia.org/rockstars and www.georgia.org/smallbusinessweek.

About the Georgia Department of Economic Development

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) plans, manages and mobilizes state resources to attract new business investment to Georgia, drive the expansion of existing industry and small business, locate new markets for Georgia products, inspire tourists to visit Georgia and promote the state as a top destination for arts events and film, music and digital entertainment projects.

About GEDA

Celebrating 51 years of service excellence, the Georgia Economic Developers Association is the leading professional organization advancing Georgia’s economic vitality. GEDA is a non-profit association of professionals, volunteers and supporters. The association provides networking and professional development opportunities for its members, and supports public policies that promote quality job creation and sustainable economic development throughout the state. For more information, visit www.geda.org