Business

2024 has been a year of change for Statesboro, with several beloved businesses closing their doors. Each closure marked the end of a chapter in the community’s story, leaving residents with memories of favorite meals, shopping trips, and gatherings. Here's a look back at the notable closures this year and their impact on our town.

Statesboro has a new spot for fried chicken lovers as a second Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen has opened its doors, featuring the chain's updated restaurant design. This new location offers residents another convenient option to enjoy Popeyes' signature Cajun-inspired menu while showcasing the brand's commitment to modernizing its customer experience.

Statesboro's Jonny Boy Cookies storefront will close its doors to the public Monday, December 23rd, marking the end of an era for local cookie lovers. However, this isn't goodbye, as the business will continue to operate through nationwide shipping, catering, food trucks, and future pop-up events.

A landmark on Statesboro's Blue Mile is changing hands as the building housing Uncle Shug's Bar-B-Q Place on Main has been sold. While the restaurant's downtown location will close later this year, the popular Uncle Shug's brand will continue at its other locations in Brooklet and Statesboro, GA.

Big Lots is set to close its doors in Statesboro after more than 20 years in business. The retailer, located in the Statesboro Square Shopping Center, will begin “going-out-of-business” sales after Christmas as part of a company-wide closure following its bankruptcy filing in September.

Statesboro's newest Dunkin' Donuts will open on Thursday, December 19, 2024, on Northside Drive East near Anderson's General Store. It's part of a wave of new eateries in that area, including one you may not know about yet. Read on for details.

Cliff Pyron was honored with the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Connie Awards for his four decades of leadership and significant contributions to the maritime industry, including his pivotal role in the growth of the Georgia Ports Authority.

Statesboro is getting a new spot to satisfy seafood cravings with the opening of Happy Wok on December 18, located at 26 Independence Way. Owned by Tina Lin, the longtime operator of Shogun, this family-run buffet promises to bring fresh flavors and a welcoming vibe to the community.

Downtown Statesboro celebrates the grand opening of Oak 45, a sophisticated bar offering a blend of modern elegance and relaxed charm. Situated at 45 E. Main St., this new establishment promises a refined atmosphere with creative cocktails and curated small plates designed for connection and enjoyment.

Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), in partnership with Glovis America, has announced the deployment of 21 Hyundai XCIENT heavy-duty hydrogen fuel-cell electric trucks for clean logistics operations, marking a significant step toward sustainable, zero-emission freight transportation at its Georgia facility.