When the Chamber was formed back in 1919 its objectives were to uphold, protect and promote the general interests of manufacturers, merchants, traders, farmers, fruit growers, scotch mill owners, horse and cattle dealers of Ballymena and the surrounding areas.
Whilst business life has changed dramatically over the years I believe the ideals of the Chamber remain as true today as they did 90 years ago.
The Chamber has excellent relationships with various business partners. One of the key elements of our success has been our continued and strengthening partnership with Ballymena Borough Council and its officials, who have always been supportive of Chamber. We look forward to many more years of support as we strive for excellence into the future.
The Chamber’s contribution to the business life of Ballymena has been significant with Shopmobility, Radiolink, CCTV and the Business Excellence Awards being just a few examples of the Chamber’s successes over recent years. These initiatives represent a lot of hard work on the part of individuals, all volunteers, and businesses and I would like to take this opportunity to thank, in particular, the members of the Chamber’s management committee for all their efforts and enthusiasm over the years.
I am very pleased to report that the Chamber is now in a position to engage the services of a Business Development Manager to assist the Chamber with its various initiatives. As a result of this, communication with our members has greatly improved and our website and Email facility also make the Chamber more accessible. Membership retention and growth is vital to the continued success of the Chamber and this is one of the areas on which I will be concentrating during my term as President.
The objectives of the Chamber are clearly outlined in our membership folder and on the website. Your membership and support will help ensure that these objectives are met. Ballymena is widely recognised as the best shopping towns in Northern Ireland. My aim is to ensure that the Borough as a whole continues to be a vibrant commercial and industrial centre.
Raymond Ruck
President
Ballymena Borough Chamber of Commerce and Industry