The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) held its annual general meeting last week and took an opportunity to look back on their most recent year.
The annual general meeting (AGM) was held last Thursday evening at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. with over 40 people in attendance. ACOC president Dan Gemus said the organization is in a good position.
“The chamber is in good shape,” stated Gemus. “It’s in the best shape it’s been since I’ve been part of it.”
According to Gemus, Amherstburg is “flourishing” and the ACOC has a strong membership and the largest since he joined in 2015.
“It is a very exciting year for the chamber,” he said. “We’re at 116 businesses this year.”
Calling it “a very busy year,” Gemus noted a number of events the ACOC presented throughout the 2023-24 year. One of the events held since last year’s AGM was the 18th annual Business Excellence Awards held at Pointe West Golf Club. There was also a networking event that drew between 30-40 member businesses held at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, a “Holiday Hop” event involving various local businesses and advocating for its members.
“Advocacy has been a big part of the chamber this year,” he added, including representation on issues at the federal, provincial and municipal levels.
The 2024 Business Excellence Awards will be held May 30 at the McGregor Columbian Club.
In a letter to members, Gemus wrote: “Our commitment to supporting each member's success has never been stronger. Through initiatives like the distribution of rapid test kits in partnership with ACS and the continuous enhancement of member savings programs, we strive to provide tangible benefits that contribute to your business's growth and sustainability. The collaborative efforts with regional chambers offer additional avenues for networking and partnership, further enriching our business ecosystem. As we look ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that lie before us. Our focus will remain on fostering a supportive environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. I invite each of you to share your ideas, participate in our events, and contribute to our collective journey towards a thriving Amherstburg.”
Members and general manager Anne Creery were thanked during last Thursday night's meeting.
It was pointed out that 13 new members were added since last year’s AGM. Those new members are CKRT Border City Radio, Diageo Canada Inc, Digital Dragonfly, F45 Training Amherstburg, McGregor Columbian Club, Owl’s Nest Emporium, Ron Deneau & Arms Bumanlag Realtors at Bob Pedler Real Estate, Scotiabank Amherstburg, Sobeys Amherstburg, Team Brad Bondy, The House Youth Centre and The Park House Museum.
ACOC holds AGM to discuss year gone by
By Ron Giofu
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