Wednesday, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce presented the inaugural Georgia Chamber Corporate Citizen Award to the W.C. Bradley Co. The Georgia Chamber Corporate Citizen Award recognizes the Georgia company whose business success is matched only by their commitment to building stronger communities.

Founded in 1885, W.C. Bradley Co. is a privately held, family-owned, faith-based organization with diversified holdings including products, properties, and services in outdoor cooking, outdoor living and recreation, real estate development, and property and land management. Headquartered in Columbus, Georgia, its portfolio includes renowned brands such as Badlands, Charbroil, Current, Oklahoma Joe’s, Pit Boss, TIKI® Brand, and W.C. Bradley Real Estate. Together these businesses share a common purpose - to bring people together, deliver amazing experiences and create memorable moments. The company’s philosophy is the belief that business success is not just about profits but about serving the community. The company’s focus on creating sustainable growth, fostering long-term relationships, and reinvesting in Georgia has not only shaped its success but also transformed local economies, revitalized neighborhoods, and created thousands of jobs.

James G. Hillenbrand, President & CEO of the W.C. Bradley Co. said:

“We are honored and humbled to receive the inaugural Corporate Citizenship Award presented by the Georgia Chamber. For 140 years, the W.C. Bradley Co. has operated with the spirit of an entrepreneur and the heart of a servant leader. Corporate citizenship, to us, means being an active partner in building stronger communities, guided by our core values of Integrity, Innovation, Caring, Excellence, Accountability, and Winning Spirit. From charitable giving and volunteer service to projects that enrich local life, our commitment to doing the right thing has always been — and will continue to be — at the heart of who we are. Our purpose remains steadfast -- to honor and build upon our unique culture and rich history, to create something better for future generations, and to continue this extraordinary legacy.”

Chris Clark, President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber said:

“Georgia’s history of corporate citizenship is well documented and the reason for our success. It’s about a history of being part of the community where our employees live, work, play, and pray. Those values are alive and well at W.C. Bradley Co., which has been a driving force for good in Columbus and beyond for well over a century. The Georgia Chamber congratulates the W.C. Bradley Co. for this well-earned honor and look forward to more successful partnerships ensuring Georgia’s long-term prosperity.”