FOLEY, Ala. — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Mark Andrew Wright as the 2026 Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year, presented by Riviera Utilities. Wright was recognized during the annual Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Summit on September 18 at the Foley Civic Center.

Since 1976, the South Baldwin Chamber has celebrated the spirit of free enterprise through this prestigious award, recognizing individuals who remain active in business, demonstrate strong character, contribute to civic and community affairs, and are committed to helping others grow.

For Wright, the honor carries a special family connection. His father, James E. Wright, received the same recognition in 1987, making Mark’s addition to the distinguished list of recipients especially meaningful.

A Foley native and 1975 graduate of Foley High School, Wright earned a degree in management from Auburn University before building a career rooted in entrepreneurship, relationships and service. After working with Waller Brothers Office Products, Wright founded Gulf Coast Office Products (GCOP) in 1992. What began with two people and one location grew into a regional operation with more than 60 employees and offices across Alabama, Florida and Mississippi. The company became one of the nation’s top independent office supply dealers by sales volume before eventually being acquired by Staples.

But selling GCOP did not end Wright’s entrepreneurial career. He established 4Wright Investments, focusing on real estate development and commercial leasing, and returned to the office furniture industry in 2018 with the launch of Emerald Coast Office. His son, Will, joined the business in 2023, continuing another chapter of the family’s entrepreneurial legacy. Today, Emerald Coast Office operates locations in Daphne, Pensacola and Panama City.

Wright’s impact can also be seen closer to home. Through his business ventures, investments and partnerships, he has remained involved in the continued growth of the Foley community, including redevelopment projects that have brought new life and businesses to downtown properties. He has also been a longtime supporter of the South Baldwin Chamber and Foley-area schools through sponsorships, in-kind services and philanthropic contributions.

Those who know Wright say, however, that his success is measured by more than the businesses he has built.

His wife of 42 years, Diana, describes relationships as the foundation of his approach to both business and life. One lesson Wright has consistently shared with their children captures that philosophy simply: “It’s never about money, it’s always about relationship.”

That commitment to people has followed Wright throughout his career—from building a company and creating jobs to investing in properties where he wants the businesses occupying them to succeed. Diana describes him as a man of integrity and vision who wants the people around him to thrive, believing their success ultimately strengthens the entire community.

“Mark’s story reflects so much of what this award was created to recognize,” said Travis Valentine, President and CEO of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. “He has built businesses, created opportunities, invested in our community and continued to find new ways to help others succeed. To now see his name alongside his father’s on the list of Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year recipients makes this recognition even more special.”

Wright and Diana live in Daphne and have two children. Their daughter, Maggie, is married to her husband, Drew, and their son, Will, is married to Rebekka. Will and Rebekka are parents to Wright’s grandson, Wilson Jr.

The Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year Award is one of South Baldwin’s most longstanding business honors. Wright joins a distinguished group of recipients representing decades of entrepreneurship, leadership and service throughout the region.

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About the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce

The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce serves as a leading voice for businesses in South Baldwin County, working to enhance the economy by providing information, services, leadership and vision. Through advocacy, professional development, networking and community partnerships, the Chamber supports a thriving business environment and a strong quality of life throughout the region.