Mobile Chamber Launches Pledge Initiative

MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile Chamber has rolled out Mobile First, which it calls an “initiative to keep Mobile area dollars in the local economy.” Having been discussed by local business leaders for several years, it involves a formalized pledge that companies will prioritize local businesses in bid projects. It was developed by a 16-member committee supported by Team Mobile, including Mayor Sandy Stimpson, the Mobile City Council, the Mobile County Commission, the Mobile Chamber and business leaders. The goal of Mobile First is to support the development, expansion and retention of local businesses in the Mobile area, helping them grow and create more jobs. Preston Bolt of attorneys Hand Arendall Harrison Sale LLC, who led the team, said, “While Mobile First is a good-faith pledge and not legally binding, over time, the expectation is that this effort will influence the culture of doing business in Mobile, where local businesses, including historically disadvantaged businesses, are given greater consideration.”