(CHARLOTTE, N.C.)—The Charlotte Regional Partnership recently interviewed Albert E. Guarnieri, a Partner with Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP, on international growth in Charlotte. Mr. Guarnieri addressed questions about the past, present and future of economic development in the region, focusing specifically on international investment.
With more than 900 foreign-owned firms operating in the Charlotte area, foreign investment is a hot topic being discussed in industries across the board. When speaking of Charlotte’s success in developing international business, Mr. Guarnieri noted the city's location and proximity to customers, as well as its airport and workforce.
“We have all the attributes that companies are looking for,” he says, “you throw on top the quality of life and we’re well positioned for good, strong continued international investment.”
In regards to the history of Charlotte, he gives honorable mention to the textile and furniture industry that defined the region 20 to 30 years ago, and in some ways, continues to define it. According to Mr. Guarnieri, however, what will have Charlotte seeing continued prosperity is the fact that “we have the foresight to plan and invest.”
Charlotte's transition to other industries such as automotive, plastics and advance manufacturing will keep it on the radar of foreign investors such as Germany. Over the last five years, BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) companies have increased their investment opportunities in the region and Mr. Guarnieri says these countries with expanding markets will continue to invest here.
For the full video of the interview, please click here.
About Parker Poe
Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP has 210 lawyers in six offices located in major markets across North Carolina and South Carolina. The Firm provides legal counsel to large commercial and public organizations on litigation, corporate and regulatory matters. It has been recognized in recent years as one of the fastest growing law firms in the United States and as an award-winning leader in the use of technology to provide better and more efficient service to domestic and international clients.