| Study: Switch to automation could leave some behind An analysis of 3 cities, including Columbia, by the African American Mayors Association found that the automation of manufacturing jobs will cause minority workers to lose jobs at a faster rate than white workers. The study called on mayors to help prepare local workforces. (Columbia Regional Business Report) Ga. pet food plant bringing jobs to Upstate Nestle Purina celebrated the grand opening of a new pet food factory in Hartwell, Ga., last week. Company officials said the plant brings 240 jobs to the plant, and a representative of Nestle Purina said about a third of the new hires are driving across the lake from South Carolina. (GSA Business Report) | 