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C O R P O R A T E P R A C T I C E

Introduction:

It is certainly my honor and pleasure to report on the Corporate Practice for 2017. I can not express
my feelings for being able to be here before you today. It was just some 14 months or so that we
began to discuss my return to FGM. The idea of returning to a firm that I hold in such high regard
was the easy part. The opportunity to return could not mean more to me and speaks volumes for
the respect that I have for the leadership, employees, direction and future prosperity of the firm.

While the firm grows, our current vision is focused, I can tell you that our founders would be proud.
Having the distinct pleasure to have worked with Cliff Fields and Jack Goldman in Mt. Vernon, I
feel confident saying that they would be proud of the firm we are today; the focus on growing
into the future, and our vision of expanding the company into new areas of growth.

While the Corporate Practice may have officially been recognized at last year’s shareholders
meeting, It was certainly in it’s infancy. Growing out of very strong relationships with Aldi, WJE, and
MotoMart and the need to diversify the areas of practice within the firm, the corporate practice
area is positioned to take off and grow.

This past year has certainly been of growth year. Growth in knowledge, relationships, and
opportunities, combined with modest increase of project experience. As with all of our practice
areas, an investment into institutional knowledge and strategic relationships is vital to success. This
past year we have invested in organizations and opportunities to increase our institutional
knowledge while strengthening relationships in the industry. The FGM brand and reputation is
strong! We are well-known throughout the state as a strong, trusted, experienced firm. Expanding
that reputation to the corporate practice – and private areas of practice – takes commitment,
time, and patience.

Project Updates:

Aldi:

FGM continued to support the growth needs of the
Aldi Corporation at the North American corporate
campus. The National IT office renovation in Aurora
celebrated a ribbon cutting ceremony in February.
This concluded the $13.0 million renovation of 80,000
square feet of space for 200 employees. Led by
Augie Battaglia, Andy Jasek, and Mike Becker the
project demonstrated FGM’s expertise in addressing
the new trends in the workplace. Open
collaborative workspace, flexible meeting space,
and the ever-popular work kitchen defines a new
way of working for the Aldi employees.