Impact on Small Town Community and Economy
God’s Chicken is almost here!! Chick-fil-a’s arrival has created a wave of excitement and anticipation in Monroe County unlike anything we’ve seen recently. While the restaurant has yet to open its doors, the mere presence of this popular fast-food chain has stirred conversations about its potential impact on the community and local economy.
“When I was hired in July of 2021, it was all the buzz around town that Monroe County wanted and needed a Chick-fil-A restaurant, and I could not agree more,” said Joyce White, Executive Director of the Monroe County Development Authority.
Director White went on to say that “If you know the mission and values that Chick-fil-A Founder Truett Cathy founded Chick-fil-A upon, they are Biblical principles and ensure a caring environment that sincerely seeks to serve customers and take care of employees. These values pretty much mirror those of Monroe County and the City of Forsyth and is a good fit for our community.”
Chick-fil-A’s imminent arrival promises to bring more than just delicious chicken sandwiches—it also brings the potential for economic growth and community enrichment. With a commitment to creating a caring environment for both customers and employees, Chick-fil-A aligns with the values of Monroe County and the City of Forsyth. The restaurant is expected not only to create 60 plus jobs but also to feature an indoor playground for families to enjoy, enhancing the town’s offerings for residents and visitors alike.
While the impending arrival of Chick-fil-A brings excitement, some residents and local businesses have expressed concerns about the potential downsides. One possible issue is the increased competition for workers that Chick-fil-A may pose to existing eateries, particularly smaller, locally owned restaurants. The shift towards a more commercialized dining scene could lead to some establishments struggling to compete with a national chain’s resources and marketing power. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about the impact of a large-scale franchise on the town’s unique charm and character, with some fearing that the introduction of Chick-fil-A could alter the community’s identity and sense of local flavor. But Director White thinks the positives far outweigh any potential negatives.
“For those who are concerned with any negative impacts a national chain might possibly have on Forsyth’s small-town culture, Chick-Fil-A is not just another ‘national chain.’ Chick-fil-A works diligently to keep their Corporate Purpose front and center and a part of that Purpose is to positively influence everyone they come into contact with. Chick-fil-A is focused on a culture of care, and they will care for the City of Forsyth and be a part of supporting and enhancing its charm.”
Working a deal with Chick-fil-a is one of the more notable wins for the Development Authority of Monroe County under the leadership of Director White and Board Chairman Tom Baugh. The Authority just announced a $2 billion investment from Oglethorpe Power, who plans to build a gas fired power facility.
The new Chick-Fil-A on HWY 18 is set to have its grand opening in early next month (August).
