Newmarket and East Gwillimbury chambers of commerce are merging under a new name, the Central York Chamber of Commerce, after near unanimous support among their members.
The alignment means an expansion and improvement of chamber offerings, said Chris Emanuel, who will continue in his role as the new president and CEO of Central York Chamber.
“We were clear that we’d only move ahead if it made sense from all angles,” he added in a news release.
All chamber staff will retain their position, he said.
“I'm looking forward to working with both the businesses in EG and Newmarket to support their growth even further,” said Tina Robert, executive director of the East Gwillimbury Chamber, adding members will receive more information in the coming weeks.
Central York Chamber will be comprised of 11 board directors, with current Newmarket board chair Seana Fardy continuing in that role.
“We’re excited by the opportunities the merger offers,” says Fardy. “Under the Central York banner, members will be able to take advantage of a larger networking pool and expanded professional development.”
“This is beneficial for members of both the Newmarket and East Gwillimbury chambers,” says Lori Woodyatt, chair of East Gwillimbury Chamber of Commerce. “The union offers members the opportunity to expand and grow their networks.”
The two chambers of commerce will be spending the coming weeks and months formalizing the merger with a goal to be one legal entity by year end.
