By Cindy Zomar, Contributing Writer
Photo/Cindy Zomar
Marlborough – It was standing room only as the Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce (MRCC) officially launched and unveiled its new brand with a ribbon-cutting at the Chamber offices on Florence Street. Billed as a “Grand Reopening,” President and CEO Rob Schlacter capped his first year in the position with the announcement that a new decade brought a new brand and a new direction.
“The new decade was a natural time to launch our new branding and logo package that represents a fresh, progressive approach to our members and the region we serve,” explained Schlacter.
“We have a revitalized direction that stems from our event planning to community outreach, business services and member offerings,” he added. “We have completely rebuilt our value statement and are laser focused against providing our members with a dynamic way to network with other Chamber members and connect to the communities we serve in order to provide valuable introductions and referrals that result in opportunities to expand and grow their businesses.”
The theme of the decade was reflected in the new banners, with the words “Network, Refer, Grow,” emblazoned on not only the MRCC banners, but even on the cake offered at the event.
Chamber members utilized the networking process, sharing ideas, exchanging business cards, mingling and chatting throughout the evening in the newly redecorated and brightly painted Chamber offices. Flying Dreams Brewery was on hand to offer some craft beer tastings, while Buffet Way, Chill Restaurant, the Embassy Suites and Firefly’s all provided appetizers to share with the crowd, Prospector East donated wine, and City Greetings brought brownies to top off the fare. Mayor Arthur Vigeant, City Councilors Don Landers, John Irish, Mike Ossing, Katie Robey, and brand-new Councilor Samantha Perlman (the youngest woman ever to be elected to Marlborough’s City Council), and MEDC Executive Director Meredith Harris, joined the festivities. During the ribbon-cutting, Mayor Vigeant commented on how happy he is with the direction the Chamber is taking.
“I look around this room and see long-time Chamber members, and brand-new faces, all here networking together. These new members provide the spark that increases the energy level in the whole community, with everyone lifting each other up. With the City, the Chamber, and the MEDC (Marlborough Economic Development Corporation) working hand in hand, I think 2020 is going to be a great year for the city, resulting in making Marlborough an even better place to ‘Live, Work and Play,’” he said.
