As I have visited businesses in the area over the past few months, I am happy to report in general that business is on the increase. Many have seen their best Christmas sales since the recession began. Others see 5-7% increases in sales over prior years. The chamber is seeing more interest in business benefits offered through chamber membership.
To meet this trend, ChamberWest developed ‘Benefits-365™’ which rewards business owners with reduced costs on such things as UPS shipping, discounted dental insurance, discounted email newsletter service, discounted commercial fleet insurance, discounted radio ads, discounted newspaper ads and more. No attendance to chamber meetings are necessary, simply run your business for less by being a member of the chamber.
ChamberWest has also adjusted to accommodate the needs to businesses owners. ChamberWest has partnered with all chambers of commerce on the west-side of Salt Lake County for Business Matters Luncheons. Our last luncheon had 170 business owners in attendance, and prior to the luncheon we held the chamber’s Business Before Lunch networking event.
Also, our weekly networking group has made major changes, the biggest of which is rewarding people who share referrals that end in a closed business transaction. This group has doubled its attendance since January.
Trax will start this August and Valley Fair Mall will be the largest shopping center with across the street Trax access.
Overall, 2011 is looking good, the chamber and its 400 members are seeing positive trends. ChamberWest spends 100% of its funds with Utah business and we ask residents to look for local businesses online at www.chamberwest.org/directory. Search for your favorite restaurant or shopping location.
Want to know what is going on? Like us on our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ChamberWestChamberofCommerce or Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/ChamberWest . Membership not required to follow us socially.
