Ella Salter

Mrs. Brink

3rd Block

1/21/21

Economic Outlook Report

I. Economic Outlook for the U.S.

The Economic Outlook for the United States shows annualized rate GDP growth of two percent

in the first quarter of 2021 and an annual expansion of 4.1 percent for 2021. This scenario will

most likely happen given new cases of CoronaVirus peak in the early first quarter of 2021, but

no lockdowns are mandated, vaccines are given out gradually and accelerate in the second

quarter of 2021, an additional stimulus package is given out in second quarter 2021, labor

markets and consumption weaken and rebound in second and third quarter 2021. All these

assumptions make for a lull in recovery in the end of 2020 and beginning of 2021. But there is

steady economic recovery that peaks in the months of summer as consumers start spending more

money. These predictions mean business can expect pre-pandemic economic levels in August

2021 and consumers can spend the money saved in 2020 in the summer and later months of

2021.

II. Economic Outlook for Cobb County

The economic outlook of Cobb County for 2021 is very positive. Cobb is constantly gaining new

businesses and creating new jobs. The county has very elite school systems, a thriving economy,
a constant influx of grant money, and multiple business incentives. This means very good new

for new people and the people living in Cobb. New businesses, hotels, shops, and restaurants and

starting and making their way towards Cobb. The economy will be booming in 2021 because

Cobb has welcomed multiple new businesses recently like Skynamo, international business

consultant Penon Partners, and intelligent automation distributor KNAPP. Biopharmaceutical

company UCB, global pack ’n ship leader DHL eCommerce Solutions, and pizza pros Papa

John’s have also announced expansions or headquarters here.

III. Sports Industry Impact on Cobb County

The Sports industry in Cobb is growing and becoming better. Recently Suntrust Park turned

Truist Park has been built and is becoming increasingly popular. Cobb is the host of multiple

international sports tournaments and national championships, including the upcoming 2021 MLB

all-star series at Truist Park. CObb has three professional sports teams, Rugby ATL, The Atlanta

Braves, and Atlanta United Football Club.

Cobb is home to many companies and businesses. Some Fortune 500 and 1000 companies in

Cobb are Aaron’s, Inc., BlueLinx, Genuine Parts Company, The Home Depot, and HD Supply.

SelectCobb attracts high-end enterprises to Cobb. Cobb's partnership with Quebec International

connects Cobb and Canadian businesses, promoting trade and new investment across borders.

Cobb county is constantly bringing in new businesses and companies for three main reasons

because of Cobb County Innovation. First, the Innovation Incentive; Cash grants are given out to

participants in the Cobb County Entrepreneurship and Innovation Incentive Program. Second,

the Business Concierge; The Business Concierge provides assistance to current and prospective

business owners that are looking to start, expand, or relocate their business to Cobb County.
Third, the Facade Improvement Incentive Program; This program provides financial assistance

for the enhancement of the appearance of commercial buildings on property redevelopment areas

and sites.

Cobb County attracts many Blue-chip companies and global organizations because of its recipe

for success. The County;s secret is accessibility to interstates and airports, high quality of life, a

deep bench of business grants and incentives for businesses of all sizes, and a modern education

system constantly flooding the market with a qualified workforce. Some of the companies that

have gone global and represent Cobb County on the world stage are YKK, OSM Worldwide,

The Lumistella Company, and DHL Ecommerce Solutions. YKK is the worlds largest zipper

manufacturer that also manufactures fastening products, plastic hardware, and industrial

machinery. YKK is determines to have a positive impact on the world and has a motto, “No one

prospers without rendering benefit to others.” that promotes a “cycle of goodness” philosophy.

The company made a recent announcement to reach complete climate neutrality by 2050, as well

as making a line of self-cleaning zippers and the development of vegetable and plastic based

products. “An important part of our response to the pandemic was to become more active and

present in the community,” says Michael Dittmer, a director with YKK. “Not only did we

manufacture components for PPE, but we also donated to local causes. YKK supported its local

community by donating to the hospital near its factory and to smaller charities with which YKK

has worked over the years.” YKK is determined to maintain a small-business attitude and

attention, no matter how many global markets they reach. “The ‘cycle of goodness’ shows that

companies survive through coexistence and mutual respect,” says Dittmer.