Tourism Meets Innovation at Hyundai Metaplant Visit

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Friday, April 3rd, 2026

Savannah’s economy continues to thrive thanks to the powerful combination of tourism and advanced manufacturing—two industries that are shaping the region’s growth today and into the future. Recently, Visit Savannah President and CEO Joseph Marinelli joined a group of local tourism leaders for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America.

During the visit, the group experienced firsthand the plant’s cutting-edge robotics and innovative auto assembly processes, offering a glimpse into one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in the country. Leaders also learned about future plans to incorporate a visitor center and guided public tours—an exciting development that could further connect Savannah’s thriving tourism sector with its rapidly expanding manufacturing base.

This collaboration highlights how Savannah’s key industries are not operating in silos, but instead complementing one another to drive economic impact, workforce opportunity, and global visibility. As manufacturing investments like the Hyundai Metaplant continue to grow, they also present new opportunities to enhance the visitor experience—reinforcing Savannah’s position as both a top travel destination and a hub for innovation.