Laurens County Chamber

Chairman's Message: July 2008

by Jim Firmin, Chairman, Chamber Board of Directors

Did you know that consumers are 63% more likely to buy from a Chamber member?

Jim FirminPeople sometimes ask me, "Why should I be a member of the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce?" I’d like to take this opportunity to share some interesting data which addresses this issue. A recent national study was recently commissioned by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives and performed by the Shapiro Group, an Atlanta-based market research firm. It emphasizes several important findings about the value of being a member of your local chamber of commerce.

According to the Shapiro Group study:
    When consumers know a business is a member of their local chamber they are:
  • 44% more likely to think favorably of the company
  • 51% more likely to be highly aware of the company
  • 57% more likely to think the company has a good reputation and
  • 63% more likely to buy their goods and services


    • What chamber membership says about your company:
  • 26% more effective for communicating that a business is reputable
  • 29% more effective for communicating to consumers that a company uses good business practices
  • 59% think chamber membership is a good way to show people what your company is all about and is an effective business strategy overall
Results are clear…Positive perception among consumers and businesses increase when they know a business is a member of the Chamber of Commerce! Overall, when asked about the local chambers and their impact on the local economy, the study states that 82% of respondents believe that the local chamber helps create jobs and promotes local economic development. Economic development is important; however we must not lose sight of the overall importance of a positive, strong, vibrant CURRENT business atmosphere in our community! New economic development in addition to a positive Chamber of Commerce makes a strong team and we should encourage and support this TEAM.

This study also reflects the important role we play as an organization and as a leader in the business community. It confirms that what we do is valuable. Chamber members are seen as respected leaders in the business community. Additionally, your active participation is encouraged and recognized by your customers. In fact, consumers are 12% more likely to think that your products stack up better against your competitor if you are personally involved in your Chamber of Commerce!

As a Chamber member, be proud that through your participation, the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce has been successfully supporting Laurens County’s business community for over 30 years. More importantly you can be proud that your membership with the Chamber results in positive recognition from consumers and business owners. So….the next time you hear the question “why should I be a member of the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce”, Maybe you have some valuable data which perhaps supports a response question….”Why are you NOT a member of the Chamber?” It is indeed money (and time) well-spent! Have a safe and blessed summer!

Jim Firmin
2008 Chairman
Laurens County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors