For many hourly workers, the struggle to secure reliable transportation is compounded by limited credit history, high-interest loans and poor financing options. These challenges can make it difficult to get a fair deal on a car, leading to workers being stuck with unsustainable payment plans.
Recognizing this issue, Unifi, the largest aviation services company in North America, and Hertz, one of the largest car rental companies in the world, have joined forces to give Unifi’s 40,000+ employees a chance to purchase cars at a discounted price with fair interest rates—an opportunity designed to empower hourly workers and ease their financial burden.
This partnership, fueled by the friendship between Frank A. Argenbright Jr., Executive Chairman of Unifi, and Gil West, CEO of Hertz and former COO of Delta Air Lines, is more than just a corporate initiative. It’s a reflection of their long-standing commitment to improving the lives of employees like Alyssa Crews, whose story is inspiring change for thousands of Unifi workers.
In November 2023, Alyssa Crews was a senior at Brantley County High School, unsure about her future. That uncertainty began to lift when she attended a school event hosted by Argenbright. As the son of a Brantley County native, Argenbright spoke passionately about his career journey and the opportunities Unifi offers to students. His message resonated with Alyssa, who decided to apply for an internship.
Alyssa Crews celebrates the purchase of her new car with Unifi Chairman Frank A. Argenbright Jr. and fellow students who also interned with Unifi.
In February 2024, Alyssa joined a three-day program in Atlanta, exploring career paths at Unifi. Opting to stay closer to home, she accepted a summer position at Savannah Airport, which later became a full-time job as a ramp agent. Alyssa excelled in her new role, enjoying the hands-on responsibility of marshaling planes on the runway. However, transportation proved to be a significant challenge.
“I had to Uber back and forth,” Alyssa shared. “Sometimes I’d wait 30 minutes or more after my shift. It made it really tough.”
When Argenbright and West heard about Alyssa’s difficulties, they were determined to help.
“Hourly employees often face challenges like this, especially when it comes to transportation,” Argenbright explained. “I knew this was an issue we could address through our new partnership with Hertz.” He reached out to Gil West, who was eager to collaborate.
Together, they worked to negotiate a fair rate and manageable down payment so Alyssa could purchase her own car. On October 22, 2024, Alyssa officially received the keys, and the very next day, she shared her story with rising juniors and seniors at Brantley County High. Alyssa spoke about her experience working with Unifi and the exciting opportunities ahead.
“I’m not going to lie – I really can’t wait to listen to my own music and drive to and from work without waiting,” Alyssa said. Her new car is also giving her the chance to reconnect with family that she hasn’t been able to see since graduation.
For Argenbright and West, Alyssa’s story is just the beginning. “This partnership with Hertz is about providing life-changing opportunities for our hourly employees,” said Argenbright. “Too many workers get stuck with huge loans, and we want to change that. With Hertz’s help, we’re giving our team access to affordable, reliable transportation.”
Gil West echoed the sentiment. “Access to transportation is critical for employment and personal growth. At Hertz, we’re proud to support hourly workers like Alyssa and provide a good deal on great cars,” he said. “This partnership is about making a real difference, one person at a time.”
Unifi’s partnership with Hertz underscores its commitment to the well-being of its employees, offering not just jobs but pathways to success and stability. With 40,000+ employees eligible for similar car-buying opportunities, the company hopes to empower even more workers to achieve financial independence.
“Alyssa’s story shows what’s possible when companies invest in their people,” Argenbright said. “This opportunity is open to every Unifi employee—whether you’re already working with us or considering joining the team, your path to affordable transportation starts here.”
