In the Face of Tariffs and Growing Global Trade Tensions, Two Firms Partner with a Solution: Build Better, Sturdier Bridges—and Build Them in the South
ATLANTA, GA & SOPHIA ANTIPOLIS, FRANCE | April 15, 2025 — In an era suddenly marked by rising tariffs and increased volatility in global commerce, two firms with Southern roots and global ambition are joining forces to offer a smarter, more sustainable path forward. Today, Lexicon Strategies and Connexion South announced their strategic partnership—united by shared founders and a shared vision to deepen economic ties between the American South, Southern Europe, Latin America, and beyond.
Born from the leadership of Lexicon Strategies, Connexion South is a newly launched consultancy headquartered in Atlanta with European operations based in the innovation hub of Sophia Antipolis, France. The firm is committed to building responsible, cross-regional partnerships in sectors like clean tech, biotech, and digital infrastructure—especially in underserved or underestimated regions poised for rapid growth.
“Lexicon Strategies has always been about using strategic communications to create real-world impact,” said Brian Tolleson, co-founder of both firms. “Connexion South allows us to expand that mission across borders, with a laser focus on helping businesses, governments, and communities navigate and lead in a more fractured global economy.”
“We believe in building bridges—not just metaphorically, but literally,” added Billy Linville, co-founder of Lexicon and Connexion South. “The Southern U.S. and Southern Europe have long been cultural cousins. Through this partnership, we aim to accelerate meaningful investment and innovation between these regions, despite the headwinds of international uncertainty.”
Amid escalating trade tensions—such as the European Union’s recent move to impose tariffs on Chinese EVs and concerns about retaliatory U.S. actions—the partnership serves as a proactive blueprint for resilience. By leveraging Lexicon’s deep roots in public affairs and Connexion South’s global market intelligence, the collaboration offers clients real-time adaptability and long-term strategic vision.
“The global economy is changing,” said Karim Lesina, Connexion South co-founder and international affairs veteran. “Our job is to help organizations stay ahead of the curve. With climate tech, AI, and multilingual innovation all reshaping commerce, this partnership ensures our clients won’t just survive the shift—they’ll lead it.”
Together, Lexicon Strategies and Connexion South will provide policy insight, strategic storytelling, trade intelligence, and stakeholder engagement solutions designed to connect the world’s emerging economic engines. With growing demand for “nearshoring,” ecological transitions, and sustainable cross-border collaborations, the two firms aim to set a new global standard—starting in the South.
About Connexion South
Connexion South is a global consultancy focused on responsibly advancing economic and technological partnerships between Southern Europe, the American South, Latin America, and beyond. www.connexionsouth.com
About Lexicon Strategies
Lexicon Strategies is an award-winning communications and strategy firm specializing in public affairs, social impact, and brand storytelling across the United States. www.lexiconstrategies.com
Media Contact:
Billy Linville
blinville@lexiconstrategies.com
404-551-2151