The 110 year organization launches strategic planning for the future of doing business locally
The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce has been serving the Mainland Communities and Long Beach Island for 110 years of continued service. The organization formally gathered for the first time on Chestnut Street in Philadelphia during the spring of 1914, marking the beginning of its strategic planning tradition. The regional chamber has been using strategic planning methods so it can stay ahead of the trends, adapting and evolving to meet the needs of the community, all major storm recoveries and the changing business landscape. One example was the success of the Vision 2020 plan that began in 2018 and was presented in the fall of 2019. It allowed the chamber to prepare for high impact changes in the digital world, investing in the platforms that were needed to keep the chamber in the forefront of communications and trusted resources during the pandemic and recovery periods. The Southern Ocean Chamber board and staff received statewide and county recognitions for their efforts in providing the businesses and visitor unwavering support during the most crucial times.
Over the years, the Chamber has undergone several name changes, reflecting its evolving strategic focus. Originally known as the Long Beach Island Board of Trade, then in 1968, as the Long Beach-Stafford Board of Trade and finally the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce. In honor of the chamber’s 105th anniversary, the organization founded its charitable affiliate, the Southern Ocean Chamber Association, to assist in the future needs of economic development for the coastal business community. The chamber’s service area represents businesses and those who do business in Lacey Township, Barnegat Township, Ocean Township, Barnegat Township, Stafford Township, Eagleswood, Tuckerton, Little Egg Harbor and all of Long Beach Island. The chamber leadership and members are anticipating the immense change in doing business, living and visiting the region, and has been working to formulate the next strategic plan to be released in the fall of 2024. This plan will help steer the board and members on services, accessibility and programs needed to usher in the next quarter of the 21st century.
The chamber has selected Mr. Blaise Scibetta and Southern Ocean Consulting, LLC, a business focused consulting company, to provide a comprehensive plan to include strategy, marketing, government relations, and business development. The start of the plan will feature in person interviews and surveys with both members and nonmember businesses as well as community leaders. As the chamber’s Strategic Planning Consultant, he will set appointments now through mid August to discuss business needs and the organization’s future focus. Those businesses who participate in the in person survey will be eligible for a $5000 advertising package from Beasley Media Group drawn during the chamber’s Oct 2 Fall Breakfast Meeting. The businesses that would like to take part in the strategic planning survey can request an appointment through the chamber office by calling 609 494 7211 or by emailing Kate@sochamber.com. There is no cost to participate in the survey or to be eligible for the drawing. There will also be an online component for feedback as well.
