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The
Greater Lansing Business Monthly began
as the project of local entrepreneur Chris Holman.
He saw a need for a publication that would promote, publicize
and support local companies; provide a forum
for ideas; and keep members of the community
informed of the services and products offered
by businesses in the area. “A feasibility study showed the market was ready, and the
market
has demonstrated that through supportive response,” stated
Holman.
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| Chris
Holman, Publisher |
The
first issue of The Greater Lansing Business
Monthly hit the streets in June 1987. In its
17 years of existence, the magazine has become
known for its consistent quality and for the positive
focus of its content.
The
magazine is distributed to all non-residential
addresses in the cities of Lansing, Mason, Holt,
Grand Ledge, East Lansing, Haslett, DeWitt, Williamston
and Okemos. Readership has grown to an estimated
40,000 per month. Keeping in line with his philosophy
of supporting the local economy, Holman has always
utilized the services of Lansing businesses to
print and distribute the magazine.
The
Business Monthly’s content includes feature
stories centered around a theme each issue. From
banking or engineering and healthcare to hospitality,
the articles focus on the quality products and
people of the Lansing area. These stories highlight
successful businesses in the community and the
people who comprise the companies. In addition,
local professionals write advice columns on topics
such as investing, management, marketing, law,
communications, travel and technology. These columnists
offer expert advice and information in their respective
fields for the readers’ benefit.
One
of the most widely read sections in the magazine
is Notable News. Comprised of many news briefs
about different companies and individuals, this
column keeps readers informed of new businesses,
office relocations, retirements, promotions, staff
additions and upcoming activities. Readers also
look forward to Holman's monthly commentary.
In
response to market needs, The Greater Lansing Business
Monthly has become involved in many other endeavors,
such as networking luncheons, CEO Network and the
Entrepreneurial Awards of Greater Lansing. Launched
in 2003, the Greater Lansing Business Index and
Survey provides an analysis of local economic health
and business spending plans.
The
Greater Lansing Business Monthly enjoys a 92 percent
awareness and readership rate among businesses
in the Greater Lansing market, according to research
conducted by Capitol Research Services, Inc. A
healthy local economy has been consistently supportive
of the publication. Many companies advertising
today were advertising in 1987, and each year in
between.
“This
is one of the most stable economies I’ve
ever done business in. I’ve done business
all over the country, in Asia and Saudi, and this
is one of the most stable. Also, the people with
whom I do business in this town are the most honorable
I’ve encountered. People incur debt and pay
it,” Holman explained.
The
staff and publisher of The Greater Lansing Business
Monthly intend to continue supporting area businesses
through the production of the monthly magazine.
With the large supply of successful people and
companies, it is easy to find interesting stories.
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