By Kathy L. Collins
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce has selected a new and enthusiastic president in John Sullivan, a local attorney and land developer. He is a veteran board member having served on the chamber board for four years. His term runs from February 1 to January 31, 2110.
The theme for the Chamber this year is “Back to Basics.” According to Sullivan, the Chamber is committed to helping area businesses make and save money by returning to core business values with business to business partnerships. He further explained that the Chamber wants to help members return to a hand shake economy. If you have confidence in the people and businesses you work with, then everyone prospers, according to Sullivan. The Chamber is also offering a “Craig’s List” to members as a way of saving money.
The Chamber is also promoting the concept of Shop Local. Sullivan suggests that if people and businesses are considering buying items online, then they should stop and first look at local proprietors and see if you can buy local. Often, area proprietors can assist someone in making the proper purchase because they know what to buy for this area.
Sullivan explained that the Chamber, in a preliminary report, has identified over one million square feet of vacant rental space. The Chamber’s emphasis will be to get the space filled. If businesses are encouraged to lower rent and get the space filled, the community could see over 10,000 jobs added as well as significant revenue, according to Sullivan. This will help not only members but the community as a whole.
If you would like more information on the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce, you can visit the Website at www.brandonchamber.com. The Chamber is located at 330 Pauls Dr., Ste.100 in Brandon. The phone number is 689-1221, and the office is open Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
