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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA RELEASE
STRATFORD & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE REFLECTS ON A YEAR OF CONNECTION AND GROWTH AT 165TH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Highlighting community engagement, leadership transitions, and advocacy in action
Stratford, Ontario – June 19, 2025. The Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted its 165th Annual General Meeting today at the University of Waterloo Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business. The event brought together members, board representatives, and community stakeholders to celebrate a year defined by momentum, collaboration, and meaningful connection.
The AGM spotlighted the Chamber’s 2024 achievements, including a robust calendar of 37 events, the welcoming of 54 new members, and renewed advocacy efforts through roundtables, public forums, and regional partnerships.
It also marked a significant leadership milestone, as the Chamber formally welcomed Aaron Martin as General Manager, following the retirement of long-time leader Eddie Matthews. Under Martin’s leadership, the Chamber is pursuing a refreshed strategic direction focused on enhancing member engagement, championing business resilience, and providing timely, community-rooted programming.
Among the year’s signature initiatives were the 28th Annual Business Excellence Awards and the 58th Annual Chamber Golf Classic. New and emerging programs such as Building Bridges to Better Governance, the revitalized Chamber of Young Professionals, and expanded opportunities for networking and mentorship between generations reflected the Chamber’s commitment to entrepreneurship, authentic storytelling, and cultivating the next wave of business leadership.
The 2024 Year in Review reported an 88% membership retention rate and a 4% increase in overall membership—clear indicators of the Chamber’s growing relevance and impact. Notable advocacy events included the State of the City Breakfast, St. Marys Business Roundtable, and provincial representation at the Ontario Chamber Advocacy Summit.
“We’re building something intentional, all-encompassing, and impactful,” said General Manager Aaron Martin. “2024 was about listening closely, being present, and turning challenges into opportunities. As we look toward 2025, our commitment to our members and our business community is stronger than ever.”
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