The 7th annual Mayor’s Small Business Conference was held last Thursday, August 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Savannah Civic Center.

The purpose of the conference is to promote small business development and growth through networking and sharing of information. Workshops were provided by representatives from the U. S. Small Business Administration, Georgia Department of Economic Development and the local business community including Ruel Joyner, President of 24E. Savannah Business Spotlight was presented by Lowell Kronowitz, President, Levy Jewelers. This year’s keynote speaker was Greg Parker, president of the Parker Companies.

During his speech, Parker shared important information related to the success of his business. He purchased his first store at the age of 21. He now owns 36 Parker stores throughout the southeast. He emphasized the necessity of having an advisory board; great branding and understanding your company’s identity; staying the course and changing with the times and marketplace. He identified his customer as a single female, who wants safety and cleanliness from where she shops. He delivers just that.

The conference presented awards to the participants. Mayor ProTem Van Johnson along with Mary Ellen Sprague and Carol Bell represented the City of Savannah during the presentations.