𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐛𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐤’𝐬 𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐦𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲

Economic growth is often measured through metrics such as new investments, job creation and commercial development, but some of the clearest indicators of a community’s strength can be found in the businesses that choose to invest locally and remain committed to the communities they serve.

That commitment was on display during the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Business Awards Luncheon, where local business leaders gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of fellow Chamber members and recognize organizations contributing to Millbrook’s continued growth and economic vitality.

According to Chamber Executive Director Brenda Dennis, this year’s award recipients reflect the qualities that continue to position Millbrook with long-term success.

“This year’s Business of the Year award winners tell a great story about where Millbrook is today and where we’re headed in the future,” Dennis said. “They represent the hard work, dedication and entrepreneurial spirit that make our business community so strong.”

Over the past several years, Millbrook has sustained residential and commercial growth, attracted new businesses while continued to support companies that have served the community for decades. Chamber leaders say maintaining that balance between growth and community connection remains one of the city’s defining strengths.

Judge Ben Baxley said the level of cooperation among local leaders continues to distinguish Elmore County from surrounding areas.

“One of Elmore County’s greatest strengths is the way our municipal, county, and local government leaders work together. If you travel in any direction from here, you’ll rarely find the same level of cooperation,” Baxley said.

Dennis noted that the impact of the award recipients extends far beyond their business operations.

“What stands out to me is that these businesses aren’t just successful, they’re invested in this community,” Dennis said. “They create jobs, support local events, give back to the community and help make our city a better place to live and work.”

That investment creates a ripple effect throughout the local economy. Strong businesses generate employment opportunities, strengthen the local tax base, support nonprofit organizations and contribute to the overall quality of life that continues to attract families, workforce talent and future investment to the area.

This year’s honorees also represent a broad cross-section of industries and business models, further demonstrating the diversity and resilience of Millbrook’s economy. Some recipients have built longstanding relationships within the community over many years, while others represent newer ventures bringing fresh ideas and opportunities to the region.

“They show the diversity of our local economy,” Dennis said. “Whether they’re long-established businesses that have served our community for years or newer businesses bringing fresh ideas and opportunities, they all play an important role in Millbrook’s continued growth.”

For economic developers and community leaders, that diversity is viewed as a key indicator of long-term economic stability. A healthy business environment depends not only on attracting new investment, but also on creating conditions where businesses can expand, innovate and remain actively engaged in the community.

“We live in a unique county,” said ECEDA Chairman Art Faulkner. “I think growth of any organization, county or place is good growth as long as that growth is based on the people who are participating in it and those who have been part of it the longest.”

“Economic development isn’t just about attracting new businesses; it’s about supporting the businesses that are already here and helping them thrive,” Faulkner said. “When local businesses succeed, the entire community benefits. That’s what makes events like this important because they recognize the people and organizations helping move Elmore County forward.”

Dennis said the continued willingness of local businesses to invest in Millbrook provides strong confidence in the city’s future trajectory.

“Their willingness to invest in Millbrook, expand their operations and serve our residents is a strong sign that our community is moving in the right direction,” Dennis said.

As Millbrook continues to grow, Chamber leaders believe the success of local businesses will remain one of the strongest indicators of the community’s long-term potential. The businesses recognized this year serve as examples of the momentum, opportunity and community spirit that continue to make Millbrook an attractive place to live, work and do business.

ECEDA would like to congratulate all of the businesses that were nominated as well as the following winners:

Emerging Business of the Year: BRANDify Creative Marketing

Small Business of the Year: The Worx Auto Detail

Medium Business of the Year: Pest Pro Services

Large Business of the Year: First Community Bank of Central Alabama​​​