HERMANTOWN — Advocating for business, connecting and trying new things was the theme of Thursday’s annual meeting of the Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce. About 70 people gathered at his AAD shrine to recognize the annual work of Chamber members and officers and hear from the president of the Minnesota Retailers Association.
Chamber President and CEO Kim Parmeter provided an update on the Chamber and reminded everyone why they were there that day.
“Our Chamber of Commerce was established to provide our members with advocacy, educational resources and networking opportunities to help businesses grow and thrive in our region,” said Palmer. “There are approximately 275 members in the Hermantown, Duluth, Proctor, Rice Lake and surrounding area chambers. My mission is to be an advocate.”
LHB’s outgoing Chamber of Commerce Chairman Todd Mel honored the outgoing board officers and the new board officers who will take office in 2023.
“Our board is filled with individuals who bring ideas and resources to help guide the direction of the Chamber. They are not only a talented collective, but a great team to work with,” said Mel. said.
The new Chairman-elect for 2023 is Nikki Karnowski.
Contribution / Olivia Sedlacek
Chamber ambassadors are typically groups of volunteers who host business ribbon-cutting and show up to assist with Chamber events. But this year, the Chamber tried something new, and instead he awarded two people for their work with Ambassadors. Dee Manson and Nancy Risloff Johnson.
“They were present at almost every event from day one. If someone was unable to attend, they would call me. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves,” said Palmer. “So we couldn’t choose. Dee, I know you’re twins, so I know you’re used to sharing. Years.”
Minnesota Retailers Association President Bruce Nustad shared with the Chamber of Commerce tips for doing business successfully in light of today’s trends in Minnesota. He asked attendees to become problem solvers in both their business and personal lives.
“Think about the things you least want to do, but think about accepting that you have to do anything every year, every quarter, once a day.” See if it doesn’t work or if there’s a better way to do it.It’s the end of the year, so now’s the perfect time to do it.I’m more open to new ideas.”
Nustad also encouraged retailers to find ways to incorporate customer-facing transactions to generate brand loyalty.
“Retailers are really resisting this idea,” says Nustad. “But Minnesotans love deals and loyalty programs. We are trained to really love them, so find incentives and deals you can do for your business wherever you work.”
Finally, Nustad encouraged attendees to “be part of something bigger than themselves.”
“And here you are today, part of this room, something bigger than yourself,” said Nustad. “So I conclude with a huge thank you for being part of the Chamber and working with the Chamber to move this community forward. It makes a difference. Trust me. I know it all too well. It makes a difference.”
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