As 2011 comes to an end, it continues to be a difficult year for many individuals and businesses but I believe that recent surges in the retail sector, like a very successful Black Friday, along with cautious growth in other areas indicate that brighter times are ahead for us all.

There have been changes in many of the businesses in Millbrae.  Some old-time, long-established businesses have closed, such as Millbrae Lumber and we’ve lost a few newer friends like Super Suppers / SereniTea House (we’ll miss you, Shar and Jenn!), but on the plus side, some great new businesses now dot our local landscape, like the Boiling Bay restaurant and Sun’s Market. 

The Chamber’s New Year message to ALL new businesses is simple: please support business in Millbrae by supporting the Millbrae Chamber of Commerce.  You are part of our business community now and its success, like your own, depends on a two-way relationship, a give and take between business owners and the community. 

If you are a new business – join the Chamber!  Our members directly support each and every local business.  Chamber membership dues, combined with all member contributions, help make us all stronger, better connected, more informed and more recognized within the business community. 

Once you join, take advantage of your free business listing on the Chamber website to grow your business.  Attend our mixers and Brown Bag lunch seminars to meet and mingle with other business owners.  Brainstorm ideas, air concerns with other members for that all-important feedback.

Remember: those who continue to do business the same way year after year will always achieve the same results.  In tough times, think outside the box!

It has been an honor to serve as Board chair for the past year.  We have a dedicated Board at the Chamber working closely with John Ford, CEO, to make our Chamber – and businesses in Millbrae – the best that it can be.  

Chris Benson

Walgreens