CREATING JOBS, BOOSTING REVENUE Williams sees the arena as a meaningful driver of tourism and job creation for Athens. “Beyond the events themselves, the arena will have a tremendous impact on our local businesses,” she shares. “More people will stay in hotels, eat in restaurants, and shop in local stores. We estimate the arena will create hundreds of new jobs and generate millions in revenue for local businesses.” For businesses like Akins Ford, the arena’s namesake sponsor, the project offers an opportunity to give back to the community. Brad Akins, President and Owner of Akins Ford, reflects on his deep ties to the Athens area and how his company became involved with The Classic Center.“We’ve been a locally owned and family-operated business since 1966,” Akins shares. “My involvement with The Classic Center began in 2013 when I helped bring Georgia club hockey to the venue. That was the beginning, but as the arena project developed, I saw the potential for something bigger. This arena will bring entertainment and Brad Akins The Best Western Athens @ The Corner of Broad & Milledge CONGRATS TO PAUL & TEAM ON THE ARENA! TRIPP.BWATHENS@GMAIL.COM For Booking Inquiries, email 65 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 11 AKINS FORD ARENA, THE CLASSIC CENTER
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