The words ‘a little something for everyone’ rings true time and again in Chattanooga. Trends’ 09 highlights different cultural, recreational and historical places that add to the area’s rich landscape.
The word “Volkswagen” may be the most popular in the Chattanooga business community this year, but hundreds of other businesses have helped bring the region the prominence it enjoys today. Trends ’09 highlights products that have become cultural staples across the Tennessee Valley.
Chattanooga is attracting an ever-evolving cultural mix to the Tennessee Valley. Whether it be painting or rock-climbing, the Times Free Press is highlighting Chattanooga’s local people in Trends ’09.
Not every car dealer in the area is going to survive the economic downturn, but those who do are poised for success in the long term, local retailers say.
Despite an economic recession that has taken its toll on many businesses, one Chattanooga company continues to thrive.
The flooring market has been hit hard by the economic recession, particularly by the stagnant housing market, but experts said area manufacturers have taken appropriate measures to survive and thrive when the market rebounds.
Area treats bring smiles
Market remains sweet for local candy, snack manufacturers
In the middle of a steep recession, people are reaching for inexpensive, comforting snacks, according to local food manufacturers.
With energy costs rising, more Chattanoogans are interested in green construction, and companies helping homes be more energy efficient are growing.
While thousands of major stores close, several local small businesses are thriving in the midst of a slow economy.
For Shaan Khan, who manages the India Bazar on Lee Highway, focusing on one community and on customer satisfaction has been a way to help the business stay afloat during the difficult economy.
The tastes of consumers have changed during the last year and could change once again since the economy is in recession, several local handymen said.
Chattanooga's key insurance segment is holding up despite the difficult economic environment, officials say.
Manufacturing makeover
Despite loss of foundries and mills, VW and the nuclear industry to fuel factory revival.
Over the past decade, Chattanooga has shed more than a fourth of its manufacturing jobs and lost its biggest remaining iron foundries and textile mills.
Homes and real estate in the Chattanooga area are still selling in spite of the economic recession, and builders continue to construct new residences.
For 86-year-old Lillian Fisher, her move from Florida into an adult living community in New York was a test of courage.
