A group of investors led by Phil Surles formed Athens Park Homes,LLC, which will target the park model business in Texas and the country. Unlike mobile homes, park trailers or "models" are movable resort cottages that are designed exclusively for part time recreational use. Typically upscale in appearance, they often include bay windows and lofts as well as walnut, oak or maple cabinets. Park model RVs also feature higher ceilings and more windows than travel trailers or fifth wheels,who must adhere to different construction guidelines for highway use. The company began operations in September 2004. "We feel that the Texas park model market is going to grow" said Surles. "demand for park models is already strong in Texas, particularly in the Texas Hill Country, and since most of the models are made in Indiana, we feel we would have a huge freight advantage by building these units here."
SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC
The Schneider Electric North American Operating Division has opened a new distribution center in Athens. The new 395,000 square foot facility will begin operations in August 2005. Eventually Schneider Electric expects to have 47 percent of its total merchandise distribution for North America served by this location."This center will place our distribution services closer to our customer and manufacturing base resulting in better customer service and lower transportation costs," said Dave Petratis, president and chief excutive officer of Schneider Electric's North American Operating Division. "To compete in a global marketplace and grow, we must take advantage of any opportunities we have to improve our productivity and remain competitive."
Charles Gerardi, vice president of supply chain and logistics for Schneider Electric's North American Operating Division, added,"This new distribution center will provide the space and service capabilities to meet the current and future demands of our sales channel."
