A MESSAGE FROM YOUR PRESIDENT
MOVINGFORWARD
Is it just me, or did June go by in the blink of an eye? It seems like it was just last week that I was officially sworn in as President of the Chamber. The reality is that it has been four weeks–andwhatawhirlwindithasbeen!
After a very well attended Friday Coffee, the Chamber hosted its annual golf tournament at Wheat City Golf Course on June 11th. With hard workbytheChamberstaffandboard,theevent was completely sold out and sponsorship targetsweremet. Abigthankyoutoallofthose whovolunteeredtheirtimetomakethiseventa success With the Chamber’s Plaid Winner’s Jackets on the line, we had to go to a count backtodetermineourwinners Congratulations toBrandonBusinessInteriorsonyourwin–wear yourjacketswithpride!
I was honoured to be able to attend a Farewell Reception for Lt Col David Cronk held at CFB Shilo with past president, Lois Ruston Lt Col Cronk has been instrumental in rekindling the bond between the base and Brandon The Chamber was proud to work with him and help showcase the base’s importance to our economic development and local economy We wish Lt Col Cronk all the best as he moves ontohisnextpostinginOttawa
Lois and I were also in attendance at the ChangeofCommandParadewhereLtColJack Nguyen was officially welcomed as the incoming base commander I am looking forward to working with Lt Col Nguyen in continuing this longstanding bond with CFB Shilo
As we move into July, the Chamber staff and boardwillgetintothenittygrittyofplanningfor our upcoming term and year ahead. This includes our Luncheon Series, and if I do say so myself, the preliminary roster of topics look top notch! Informationregardingseasonseatsand sponsorship opportunities will be available soon, and we look forward to seeing you in September!
Andlast,butcertainlynotleast,oursearchfora general manager continues on schedule with our GM Hiring Task Force working diligently to find the right candidate to help lead our organization. I will continue to provide updates to the membership as we work through this process.
So with that, I will sign off. I hope each and every one of you will take some time this summer to enjoy what our beautiful province hastooffer. Explorenewdestinations,tryanew activity, or visit one of Brandon’s many outdoor events. However you choose to relax, remember to enjoy yourself, because in the wordsofoneofmyfavouritemovieheroes… “Lifemovesprettyfast.”
JenniferLudwig
STATE OF THE CHAMBER
EVENTRECAP
Over 230 business leaders, elected officials, and community partners gathered at the Clarion Hotel in June for our State of the Chamber luncheon, marking a pivotal moment of both reflectionandlookingahead.
Outgoing President Lois Ruston was recognized for her exceptional service during an extended 18-month term. Stepping into the role earlier than expected, Lois led the Chamber through significant transitions with steady leadership and unwavering commitment. Her contributions were warmly applauded, and she leaves a legacyofresilience,inclusivity,andprogress.
Incoming President Jennifer Ludwig took the podium with enthusiasm and vision. She urged members to reimagine Brandon’s potential not merelyasaregionalhubbutasacitypoisedfor national and international opportunities “It’s time we start asking, ‘Why not Brandon?’” Jennifer said, encouraging the community to think boldly about the city’s strategic advantagesandemergingpossibilities
Jennifer highlighted key initiatives on the horizon, including Brandon’s role in interprovincialtrade,exploringprojectslikethe
potential reactivation of the Port of Churchill, and the possibility of securing eastbound air service to Toronto to enhance business connectivity.
Sheemphasizedthatwhileshedoesn’tclaimto beanexpertineveryindustry,hermissionisto ensure the Chamber listens, learns, and acts swiftly.Memberoutreach,sheexplained,willbe central to understanding and addressing challenges such as trade disruptions, tariff impacts,andbroadereconomicshifts.
2025-2026CHAMBERYEAR
Asweembarkonthe2025-2026Chamberyear under Jennifer’s leadership, we’re excited to continue the momentum of supporting local businesses, building new partnerships, and advocating for policies that position Brandon forsustainablegrowthandinnovation
Your input is invaluable to shaping our path forward We invite all members to help guide our priorities by completing the Membership Survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FFCW8JJ
STATE OF THE CHAMBER
FROMTHECHAMBER
We extend heartfelt thanks to the Clarion Hotel for hosting this special event, the Victoria Inn for their support, and Trident Event Group for capturing the day by makingussoundandlookgood.
A very special thank you goes to our Host Sponsor, Centum Mortgage Choice, and to our valued Booth Sponsors: Alternative Group, Anytime Fitness Brandon, West-Can HR, Westman Communications Group, and Westman Immigrant Services. Your partnership makes these events possible andstrengthensourbusinesscommunity.
Thank you to all our members for your continued engagement and support. Together, we’re buildingavibrant,resilientbusinesscommunityreadyforthefuture.
MEMBERSHIP SURVEY
SHAPINGTHEFUTURE
Aswestepintothe2025-2026Chamberyear,we’recommittedtoensuringourprioritiesreflectwhat matters most to you, our members. Your insights and experiences are invaluable in helping us advocateeffectively,developmeaningfulprograms,andbuildastrongbusinesscommunity.
We invite all members to participate in our Membership Survey, designed to gather your feedback on key issues, emerging opportunities, and the services you’d like to see from the Chamber in the year ahead. Whether it’s policy advocacy, networking events, or business resources, your voice will guideourworkandhelpusserveyoubetter.
Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts. Together, we can continue to make Brandon a thrivinghubforbusinessgrowthandinnovation.
TAKETHESURVEYTODAY:HTTPS://WWW.SURVEYMONKEY.COM/R/FFCW8JJ
CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT
THANKYOU
As we wrap up another successful year, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who attended and supported our chamber events throughout the year. From our monthlyluncheonsandnetworkingevents to our signature gala, your active participation has been the cornerstone of our success Our most recent and final event of the year at Wheat City Golf Coursewasnoexception Theenthusiasm, energy, and engagement from all 150+ attendeesweretrulyremarkable
ThankyoutoourVolunteers
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our volunteersfortheirinvaluablesupportand dedication in making our recent tournamentaresoundingsuccess.
SpecialThankstoOurSponsors
We owe a significant part of our success to the generous support of our sponsors. Your contributions have been invaluable, enabling us to organize events that bring ourcommunitytogetherandfostergrowth andcollaboration.
TitleSponsor
FLIGHTSPONSOR
BURNSMAENDELCONSULTINGENGINEERS
LTD.
GUILDINSURANCEGROUP
KOCHFERTILIZER
SUPERTHRIFTYDRUGSCANADALTD
HoleSponsors
HERITAGECO-OP
ST.JOHNAMBULANCEBRANDON LEECHGROUP
UNIVERSALDOORSANDTRUCK
ACCESSORIES
T-BIRDSFUNFOODGAMES
WESTOBA
ALTERNATIVEGROUP
DENRAYTIRE
DENNISHUNT&ASSOCIATESIGWEALTH WORKERSCOMPENSATIONBOARD
WESTMANCOMMUNICATIONSGROUP
GOODLIFEFITNESSBRANDON
TOMMYGUN’SORGINIALBARBERSHOP WESTERNFINANCIALGROUP
BELLMTS
MCMUNN&YATESBUILDINGSUPPLIES WESTMANIMMIGRANTSERVICES
CURBRIDGE
SandwichSponsorCHEZANGELABAKERYANDCAFÉ
WaterSponsor BLUEMOONWATER
CoffeeSponsor FORBIDDENFLAVOURS
Contributor SOBEYSWEST
LUNCHEON RECAP
SHILO CHANGE OF COMMAND
CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP TRANSITIONS ANDONGOINGPARTNERSHIPS
InJune,ourExecutiveteamhadthehonourof spending two meaningful days at CFB Shilo, marking a significant transition in the Base’s leadership
Jennifer Ludwig and I were pleased to attend a Farewell BBQ for Base Commander Lieutenant Colonel David Cronk, celebrating his dedicated service and strong ties with the Brandon community The following day, we witnessed the official Change of Command Ceremony, where leadership was formally transferred to Lieutenant Colonel Jack Nguyen
Over the past few years, the Brandon ChamberofCommercehasenjoyedrenewing and growing a strong partnership with CFB Shilo The Base is a vital part of our regional economy and community fabric, contributing notonlytolocalbusinessbutalsotothespirit ofcollaborationthatdefinesourarea
As Lt Col Cronk and his wife Mariola embark ontheirnextposting,weextendourheartfelt
thanks and best wishes for their future. At the same time, we look forward to working with Lt ColNguyenandhisteamtocontinuefostering connections between CFB Shilo and the broaderbusinesscommunityinBrandon.
We remain committed to supporting this important relationship and to strengthening thetiesthathelpourregionthrive.
Let’shaveanotherGreatYearTogether!
Thank you to all our valued members for your unwavering support throughout the 2023-2024 chamber year Together, we ' ve achieved remarkable milestones and made significant strides in enhancing the Brandon business community. Your dedication, collaboration, and enthusiasm have been instrumental in driving positivechangeandfosteringgrowth.Here'stoanothersuccessfulyearahead!
2023-2024Board
As we embark on a new chamber year, we invite our members to renew their membership with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. Your continued support ensuresthestrengthandvitalityofourbusinesscommunity.
YOURMEMBERSHIPRENEWALCHECKLIST
Membershipfeesarepaid
Primary&Billingcontactsareuptodate Physical&Mailingaddressesarecorrect Yournumberofstaffisstillwithinyourmembershiprange Questionsaboutyourmembership?ContactOliviatodayat members@brandonchamber.ca!
ReferaNewMemberandEarn$100inMarketingCredit!
AttheBrandonChamberofCommerce,webelieveinthepowerofcommunityand the strength of a unified business voice. Use this credit for advertising in our "Chamber at a Glance" weekly newsletter or "Glance" publication. These platforms provide excellent visibility, allowing you to promote your business to an engaged audience. By referring a new member, you help grow our Chamber and gain valuablemarketingopportunities.It'sawin-winforeveryone.Startreferringtoday!
BoardofDirectors
JENNIFERLUDWIG|PRESIDENT SUPERTHRIFTYDRUGSCANADALTD
EMELIOBROWN |VICEPRESIDENT INTRITECHMARKETING
CHRISFINLEY|SECRETARY TREASURER MAZERGROUP
LOISRUSTON|PASTPRESIDENT YWCAWESTMAN
LISAANDREW BDOCANADALLP
MATTBERG
LIVINGSTONEOUTDOOR& LIVINGSTONELANDSCAPINGLTD
BRENTMILLER VICTORIAINN
ChamberStaff
FREDERICRAMSAY OFFICECOORDINATOR
CHERYL RACINE FRONTDESK/ADMIN
CALLIEFOWLER
MARKETING&EVENTSASSISTANT
Acknowledgments
KARINGRIFFIN ALTERNATIVEGROUP
ROBSTARKELL WEST-CANHRSOLUTIONS
AMBERWHITE ANYTIMEFITNESS
CHARLESTWEED TWEEDIASOCIALMEDIA AGENCY
ENVERNAIDOO WESTMANIMMIGRANT SERVICES
LYNDSAYSEAFOOT CURBIRDGE
EMMYSANDERSON BRANDONDOWNTOWNBIZ
DESIGN,EDITING,WRITING&COMPILATION DESTINYMALUGA
MOSTPHOTOGRAPHY,INCLUDINGEVENTPHOTOGRAPHY TRIDENTEVENTGROUP
WeacknowledgethatBrandonislocatedonTreaty2territory,traditional landsoftheCree,Oji-Cree,Dakota,Anishinaabe/Ojibwepeoples,andthe homelandoftheRedRiverMétisNation.Wehonorthehistories,cultures, andcontributionsofIndigenouspeoplestoourcommunity.
SETTING THE PACE FOR A GREATER BRANDON SINCE 1883
TheBrandonChamberofCommerceisanindependent, membershipfunded,non-profitorganizationthatrepresents Brandonbusinessfromthegrassrootslevel
OurmissionistoencouragegrowthintheBrandoncommunityby fosteringaprogressivebusinessenvironment,favourableto enhancingexistingandattractingnewbusiness.