Business groups form alliance

By Callan Date
KEY figures from several City of Casey Chamber of Commerce groups took the first step towards forming a collective voice during an inaugural meeting at Narre Warren last Monday.
Berwick, Cranbourne, Narre Warren, Hampton Park and Tooradin shopping precincts were all represented on the night which featured a presentation by two leaders in marketing for Victorian shopping strips.
The City of Casey hosted the meeting at the council chambers with the enthusiasm among those who attended evident at the end of the night.
Narre Warren Chamber of Commerce president Bob Burns said the night went brilliantly.
“I think everybody welcomed the whole opportunity to get together,” Mr Burns said. He said there was a very enthusiastic decision to move forward with regular meetings between the city’s Chamber of Commerce groups and Casey officers on a quarterly basis.
“There wasn’t a lot of time spent talking about the issues we are facing.
“The first meeting was focused very much on the potential of the group and the acceptance that as a combined group we have a much bigger voice.”
Mr Burns was full of praise for the speakers, Noella and Ray Jacobs, who were organised to address the group.
The duo presented practical examples on what difference can be made to shopping areas through coordinated management and marketing.
They also showed how various centres have achieved extraordinary results and how they compete with other shopping precincts.
“Some of the information they gave was absolutely fantastic,” Mr Burns said.
“I think the minds that were present at the meeting could really see the long term benefit of the group going forward.” The Narre Warren Chamber of Commerce president said he hoped Webb Street businesses would be encouraged by the latest developments and take an interest in their local chamber.
“Our local chamber is looking to get together in late October for a meeting,” Mr Burns said.
For more information about the collective group or any individual chamber of commerce in the City of Casey contact Angela Smyth on 9705 5125.