There are signs the pandemic is finally slowing down, and with vaccinations ramping up, we are hopeful that Meaford will be back to some semblance of normal soon. With the patios returning, new Markets being planned for the Market Square and Fairground locations, new businesses opening in our Municipality, and existing businesses looking forward to welcoming customers indoors again, the Meaford Chamber of Commerce is pleased to kick off the summer of 2021 with its Online Auction going live at noon on Friday, June 4th and running till midnight on Friday, June 18th!

The past year and a half have been incredibly difficult for many people and businesses, and we are amazed and grateful at how generous people have been in supporting this year’s silent auction! The auction is the Chamber's largest fundraising event of the year. By participating in the Meaford Chamber, you support our efforts to promote our members, local businesses, service clubs and other community groups through economic development and tourism.

We are pleased to announce that the Chamber will be operating the Meaford Apple as a tourist information centre again this summer to welcome visitors to our area, and direct them to area attractions, events and businesses. We had over 8,400 people visit the Apple in 2020, and with the borders still being closed, we anticipate there will be many more tourists visiting Meaford in 2021!

This year, in addition to the Chamber Chat, the Chamber will also be introducing new event boards to help promote local events and attractions. Some of the Chamber events and advocacy initiatives in 2020 included:

• Economic Recovery Committee
• Delivered eCommerce grants
• Conducted Open for Business (PPE, marketing, videos)
• Advocated bump out patios on Sykes
• Meaford Events Committee
• Advocated for Market in Market Square
• Meaford Dragons 2020 (Virtual)
• The Apple Tourist Information Centre
• > 8,400 visitors
• Newly renovated
• Grey Roots Reads
• Meaford Independent articles
• Zoom Town Hall Meetings
• Community Awards
• Silent Auction

With over 90 amazing products and services available, ranging in value from $25 to $2,500, we are encouraging everyone to visit the Chamber website at meafordchamber.ca to place your bids and support the Meaford Chamber of Commerce and your local community.

source: media release, Meaford Chamber of Commerce