East Gwillimbury and Newmarket Chambers of Commerce Announce Merger and New Name

September 14, 2023, Newmarket – The Board of Directors of the East Gwillimbury and Newmarket Chambers of Commerce are pleased to announce the formal alignment of the two organizaIons under a new name, the Central York Chamber of Commerce.

The announcement comes on the heels of an exploratory process to determine whether such a move was in the best interest of members. “We were clear that we’d only move ahead if it made sense from all angles,” says Chris Emanuel, President & CEO of Central York Chamber (CYC). Along with a process review, members of the two chambers had the opportunity to share their comments and participate. Feedback, he says, was nearly universal in favour of a merger.

The alignment means an expansion and improvement of chamber offerings, says Emanuel. That sentiment is echoed by Tina Robert, ExecuIve Director of the East Gwillimbury Chamber. “I’m looking forward to working with both the businesses in EG and Newmarket to support their growth even further.” More info will be rolled out in the coming weeks.

Central York will be compromised of 11 board directors with Seana Fardy in the board chair role. All team members from the two chambers will remain on staff. “We’re excited by the opportuniIes the merger offers,” says Fardy. “Under the Central York banner, members will be able to take advantage of a larger networking pool and expanded professional development.”

“This is beneficial for members of both the Newmarket and East Gwillimbury chambers,” says Lori Woodyatt, Chair East Gwillimbury Chamber of Commerce. “The union offers members the opportunity to expand and grow their networks.”

The two Chambers of Commerce will be spending the coming weeks and months formalizing the merger with a goal to be one legal entity by year end.

About the Newmarket Chamber

Now the Central York Chamber, the Newmarket Chamber was part of the Newmarket community for more than 160 years. As a not-for-profit business organization its approach was built on key pillars we think make the world a better place to live: economic vibrancy; civic leadership; and social responsibility. These values underpin everything we do, from our events to our programs, services and initiatives. Discover why so many local businesses are part of the Chamber.