The invitations come from the golf tournament's corporate sponsors, companies like BellSouth, AmSouth, Russell Corp., Buffalo Rock and HealthSouth. And it is at these tents that some of those firms' top executives can be found sipping a soft drink and chatting about the golf. At first glance, it might look like the city's corporate world has traded its suits for golf shirts and khakis. But amid the relaxed atmosphere, subtle business is underway. Business relationships are being built, and established relationships are being cemented.
Many local businesses use the tournament as a way to meet potential business partners.
From the economic development side, the Bruno's Memorial Classic helps to showcase the area to those who might be thinking of locating an office or a plant in the area, he said. From the marketing side, it's a chance to build a business relationship, he said. No contracts will be laid on the table during the tournament. That would be improper, according to those who use the corporate tents to entertain clients. But if there is a new innovation or service being offered by one of the host companies, there's nothing wrong with casually mentioning that during the relaxing conversations, Johnson said.