North Augusta Chamber Honors Four Businesses at Second Annual Awards Ceremony

The North Augusta Chamber of Commerce revealed its 2025 Business of the Year winners on April 23. This happened during the group's first-ever business summit. Four companies received awards across different size categories for helping the local economy grow.

Helping Hands, Inc. grabbed the nonprofit award. The organization created a space where children can heal and build stronger futures. Carpenter's Tire and Auto won the micro-business category after serving the area for 49 years. Three generations of one family have owned it.

Orange Otter Toys claimed the small business honor. The toy store has operated for almost four years and just reopened in a bigger Georgia Avenue location. People praised the shop for bringing new life to downtown.

"You never know who will walk in the store, but I always tell my team to make them feel like home because life is crazy, and life is hard, especially when you have young kids," Aubrey Hinkson said, per the North Augusta Star.

Bridgestone Aiken PSR won the large business category. Plant manager Chris Hennessee said the company works with other firms to strengthen the region.

The ceremony happened during the chamber's 75th anniversary year. Mayor Briton Williams led the board 25 years ago during the 50th anniversary. He read a proclamation marking the milestone.

The awards debuted at last year's gala but became a standalone event this year. The summit also brought together previous informal expos into breakout sessions. These were designed to help companies strengthen operations.