The CHQ Chamber builds vital connections, provides professional resources, and champions our local businesses in Chautauqua County. But what does all that mean? As a business association we are here to support local businesses in a variety of ways, and we urge local residents to support locally owned businesses as much as possible.

In a fluctuating economic environment, there are things local businesses can do to help cushion themselves, and there are things consumers can do to help bolster their friends and neighbors who may be challenged by variable supply prices.

Shop locally. We cannot stress this enough for both businesses and consumers in Chautauqua County. When we support one another, we are building not just our local economy, but also our community. The people who operate and work for our locally owned businesses are people we know. Those locally owned businesses make our communities unique. They bring character and life to our neighborhoods and our downtowns.

When you eat at locally owned restaurants you are helping not just the business owner, but the wait staff, the cooks, and even the wholesale businesses where they purchase their food and other supplies. When you buy from a locally owned retailer the story is the same. They also have employees, facilities expenses, and more. Changes in the global economy hit all businesses, not just major corporations. Small businesses may be impacted in an even greater way because they don’t always have the same financial or structural capacity to be prepared for variability.

For local businesspeople, we do have a few tips to help you stay prepared in changing times:

– Take inventory. Track what you have now and when you may need to order more supplies.

– Forecast. Plan when you’ll need to restock and consider what pricing may look like at that time.

– Stock up. If you have the capital and space to buy non-perishables ahead, you may be able to save some money in the long run by purchasing when prices are lower.

– Shop around. When you have found a good supplier it’s hard to make a change, but if there are other options that may save you money it may be a good time to consider alternatives.

– Communicate. Let both your suppliers and consumers know why you are making changes. If you need to make changes or raise prices, your customers will be more understanding if they understand the issues. Communicating well is the key to maintaining healthy relationships with customers.

– Reach out. If your business is struggling, we have great teams of people in Chautauqua County that can help you resolve a variety of issues. Connections are key, and the CHQ Chamber has partnerships with numerous local organizations that may be able to help.

The CHQ Chamber will continue to provide resources and connections for local businesses. We urge consumers to continue to provide vital support for local businesses in all ways possible. That includes financial support through purchases, but also word of mouth. When you have a great experience with a small locally owned business, spread the word. Let others know you received outstanding service or great food or had a positive interaction. It goes a long way towards promoting local businesses, and they need your support.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS AT THE ATHENAEUM HOTEL

The next CHQ Chamber Business After Hours will be held Wednesday, April 30 at the grand Athenaeum Hotel at Chautauqua Institution. You can enjoy this beautiful setting along with complimentary appetizers and a cash bar from 5-6:30pm.

All local businesspeople are welcome. CHQ Chamber Business After Hours events are free for two people from each Chamber member organization. The price is just $10 for non-members or anyone above the two-person limit. Registration is appreciated for our planning purposes but is not required. Registering in advance gets you on our “Who’s Who in the Room” list. Registration is open now through our web calendar at www.chqchamber.org.

Business After Hours at the Athenaeum Hotel is sponsored by the Athenaeum Hotel, Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Chautauqua Institution, Chautauqua Marina, Kinetic Business, M&T Bank, Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union, Jamestown Community College, Media One Radio Group, Observer, and The Post-Journal.

SHOPLOCALCHQ GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE YEAR ROUND

Despite the fickle April weather in recent weeks, spring is emerging. That means holidays and celebratory occasions are ahead. When you’re thinking about a gift for Easter or Mother’s Day or graduations and weddings, consider the ShopLocalCHQ Gift Card.

Available through the CHQ Chamber, the ShopLocalCHQ Gift Card can be purchased in any amount from $5 to $500. They can be used at over 165 businesses throughout Chautauqua County for all types of purchases from hardware to home goods, dining, experiences and attractions, groceries, books, and much more.

If your business is not yet accepting the ShopLocalCHQ Gift Card, contact the CHQ Chamber. There is no cost above your annual membership. You can learn more at www.shoplocalchqcard.com.