The Chamber 100 Fall Conference presents a call to action, highlighting the critical need for pro-growth policies and a united approach to economic leadership in a time of political unrest. How can we work together to achieve 3% growth, and how quickly can we rally around the policies that will make it happen? Chamber Chief Executive Officer and President Andrea Ray recently attended the Chamber 100 Fall Conference in West Palm Beach, Florida, where she joined fellow leaders from across the country to discuss key updates from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The conference provided a comprehensive look at the U.S. political landscape, economic forecasts, and federal policy changes that could shape the future of business and growth in America. Big Conversations, Big Impact The Chamber 100 brought together committee members from across the country and some of the most influential voices in business and policy. Notable speakers in attendance included Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase; Suzanne Clark, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Neil Bradley, Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce; and Tevi Troy, author of The Power of Money. These discussions offered attendees a deep dive into the intersection of business strategy, federal policy, and the broader economic trends that will shape the country’s future. Protecting Business in a Divided America One of the central themes of the conference was the growing political and cultural polarization in the U.S. and its impact on business. In a climate where partisan divides seem to be deepening, the business community faces new challenges in policies that promote growth and stability. Newly elected and returning official need to focus on pro-growth policies that:
Speakers discussed how to prepare for the next administration, and whether a divided Congress can find the will to compromise for the good of the economy. The consensus was clear: in times like these, the business community must act as a unifying force, providing a rational and trusted voice for prosperity in the face of division. The Importance of 3% Growth Perhaps the most pressing issue discussed at the conference was the importance of achieving sustained economic growth. Speakers emphasized that a growth rate of 3% isn’t just an ambitious target – it’s critical for the long-term health of the economy. At this rate, American’s economy would double in size by the time someone born today reaches their early 20s. In contrast, a 2% growth rate would push this milestone into their mid-30s. Therefore, public policy plays a pivotal role in creating the conditions for this kind of growth. Pro-growth policies that preserve a competitive tax code, secure new trade deals, support workforce development, and tackle the country’s growing federal debt are essential to ensuring that growth remains strong and sustainable. Growth Beyond the Numbers Economic growth is often measured in percentages, but its real-world impact is much broader. Speakers at the conference were apt to point out that sustained growth improves lives in tangible ways. It can create jobs, raise wages, and help businesses thrive during times of uncertainty. It also fuels innovation and increases productivity, which in turn leads to power prices and more choices for consumers. For instance, a modest increase in productivity – only 0.5% – could reduce the federal deficit by $1.2 trillion over the next decade. This demonstrates how powerful even small improvements can be over time. Economic growth is more than numbers on a page; it’s about giving all Americans the opportunity to succeed. Moving Forward Together As the conference wrapped up, it was very clear that the road ahead will require collaboration, innovation, and most importantly, shared political will. With the right policies in place, the business community can drive the kind of growth, even when incremental, that benefits everyone. But it will take all of us – business leaders, policymakers, and citizens – to ensure that the future we create is one of opportunity, prosperity, and shared success. Take a deep dive into the Chamber's impact on the South Sound, and delivery on its commitments from 2024. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber (TPCC) proudly presents its 2024 Annual Impact Report, a comprehensive look at its efforts to drive economic vitality, advocate for businesses, and foster an inclusive and equitable South Sound. This year’s report highlights the Chamber’s deep commitment to empowering local businesses, supporting community leaders, and building resilient, sustainable growth across Tacoma-Pierce County.
“Every achievement in this report reflects our collective strength and shared purpose,” said Andrea Reay, President and Chief Executive Officer, TPCC. “We’re grateful to our members and partners who support our mission and enable us to champion a future where every business and individual can thrive in the South Sound.”
The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber invites community members, stakeholders, and business leaders to explore the full 2024 Impact Report, available on the Chamber’s website. Scholarships Recognize the Contributions and Legacy of David Schroedel and Janice Hutchins. At the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce's Annual Meeting on November 9, 2024, the Chamber announced the creation of two new scholarships to honor Janice Hutchins and David Schroedel, two long-serving staff members who have made an indelible impact on the Chamber and the South Sound community. The scholarships will support emerging business leaders and civic-minded individuals, reinforcing the Chamber’s mission to advance the region through local leadership and advocacy. “These scholarships reflect the values Janice and David have championed for decades,” said Andrea Reay, President and Chief Executive Officer, TPCC. “They are our way of celebrating their legacy and fostering a new generation of leaders who will help our community flourish.” The Janice Hutchins Stronger Together Membership Scholarship will recognize new Chamber members who demonstrate a strong commitment to community service, exemplifying Hutchins' 45 years of dedication to the organization. Meanwhile, the David Schroedel Leadership and Advocacy Candidates Academy Scholarship will provide resources to individuals participating in the Chamber’s Candidates Academy, helping equip future leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to engage in civil service. Schroedel currently serves as the Executive Vice President for the TPCC, and Executive Director for the Downtown Tacoma Partnership. Janice Hutchins currently serves as the TPCC's Customer Experience Specialist. More information about the scholarships, eligibility requirements, and deadlines related to applications will be released in 2025. Annual Awards Recognize Outstanding Chamber Member Businesses Making a Lasting Impact on the South Sound Community.The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber (TPCC) is excited to announce the outstanding businesses and organizations who are the recipients of a 2024 Spotlight on Business Awards. Honorees are celebrated across five categories, highlighting contributions to economic vitality, community engagement, and inclusivity in the South Sound. “We’re honored to spotlight businesses and organizations that drive progress in Tacoma and Pierce County,” said Andrea Reay, President and Chief Executive Officer, TPCC. “This year’s winners exemplify the values of our community, and their dedication inspires us all to build a brighter future.” This year’s winners are:
The Chamber is introducing two new scholarships in honor of Chamber staff along with sharing insights from the 2024 Annual Impact Report.The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber (TPCC) gathered members, community leaders, and supporters at the Marriott Tacoma Downtown for the 2024 Annual Meeting, marking 140 years of dedicated service and advocacy for the region’s business community. This milestone event brought together local organizations, business leaders, and Chamber supporters to celebrate the Chamber’s impact, highlight key takeaways from the Chamber’s Annual Impact Report, and introducing new initiatives aimed at supporting regional growth. Andrea Reay, President and Chief Executive Officer, TPCC, welcomed attendees and acknowledged the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, land stewards of the Tacoma-Pierce County region, highlighting the Chamber’s commitment to building an inclusive, equitable, and prosperous community. “We are here to support our community and to uplift the businesses that drive our economy forward,” said Reay. Together, we celebrate our shared progress and the vibrant future we are building in Tacoma and the South Sound.” The Chamber honored outstanding businesses across five categories, with awards celebrating excellence in economic impact, military support, and women-owned business leadership.
Other key highlights of the event:
 (Left to right) Andrea Reay, President and Chief Executive Officer, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce looks on as Outgoing Chair Jon Rossman Speaks during the passing of the gavel to current and incoming Chair, Kierra Phifer.
“We are member-driven and future-focused,” said Reay. “Our new visual identity represents the power of collaboration and the commitment to help every person and business in our community flourish.” The evening concluded with a networking reception, offering attendees the opportunity to connect and celebrate the Chamber’s ongoing contributions to Tacoma’s growth.  Outside the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi Tacoma and Pierce County’s business leaders, Chamber leadership, and team members from the Downtown Tacoma Partnership and Spaceworks visited New Mexico to engage with Sante Fe officials, discovering how the creative economy helps fuel the city’s tourism, business development, and furthers its community. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber embarked on its fifth annual intercity visit and leadership conference, Aspire. Its purpose is to explore new programs and initiatives in another great American city, giving us a chance to learn, discover, and adapt with the best practices to meet the growing needs of the South Sound. A rich history, diverse culture, and art make Santa Fe a world-class destination. Two to three million visitors flock to this uncommon city each year. The community characteristics and assorted economic industries, such as the arts, technology, tourism, and innovative business, are what make Santa Fe a great place to live, work, and play. During Aspire we met with local elected officials, business owners, film artisans, opera and theatre producers, and more to get a better sense and stronger perspective of what we can take home from the Southwest to the Northwest.
Cultural Dialogue Fosters Creative Solutions We had an opportunity to visit the Poeh Cultural Center, a nonprofit dedicated to providing a gathering place for the respectful sustainment of Tewa Pueblo traditions through being, doing, and sharing in connection with the Pueblo of Pojoaque. The Pueblo of Pojoaque is one of the six Northern Tewa-speaking Rio Grande Pueblos, and has been inhabited as early as 500 AD with a strong cultural identity and acknowledgement as “Po-suwae-geh,” the water drinking or gathering space. Attendees had an opportunity to discuss with the Mayor of Santa Fe, Allan Webber, the crucial challenges of bringing diverse perspectives to the table to find solutions. Santa Fe is the second largest art market in the U.S. and home to several large anchoring arts organizations, such as the Santa Fe Opera. It also serves smaller performance organizations, such as the Santa Fe Playhouse, while welcoming film production companies. We toured Camel Rock Studios, heard from Mayor Webber, met with local businesses, and much more. From these unique interactions we took away several key takeaways. Revitalizing Public and Private Space Anchors Businesses and Supports Artists When we center investment on how to increase interaction, we can deliver on positive intention that attracts interest – in the form of tourism and business development – and anchors those spaces for the community to flourish. In Sante Fe, the Tesuque Pueblo Film and industry executives partnered to reimagine a closed casino as a hub for creativity and the moving image. The casino space was reborn as a state-of-the-art film production studio bringing in revenue for the Pueblo people and the surrounding community. The studio currently employs more than 800 people, and it engages in the local economy that supports its needs during production periods. Separately, local artists came together to revitalize a shuttered bowling alley to create Meow Wolf Sante Fe, an immersive arts experience that brings in over 750,000 visitors annually. The interactive installation features over 70 rooms designed and curated by local and community artists while exemplifying Meow Wolf’s values of creative collaboration, provocative playfulness, welcoming outsiders, authentic compassion, and audacious courage. Meow Wolf began in Sante Fe and has blossomed into a multi-city immersive arts experience with homes in Houston and Grapevine, Texas; Denver, Colorado; and Las Vegas, Nevada. Today, Meow Wolf has an estimated revenue of $267.1 million annually, employing over 900 individuals, and grew its staff by 21% in the last year.
Public-Private Partnerships Take Time to Be Successful When the city of Sante Fe wanted to invest in revitalizing an underutilized railyard, they chose to partner with a non-profit that could help leverage the full scope of resources that existed within the community. The process of its development spanned several years with the initial approval for a lease and management contract issued in 2002. The initial phase of development began with archaeological investigations in 2004, followed by the commencement of infrastructure construction in 2006. The Sante Fe Railyard’s grand opening in 2008 marked not only a milestone event. It celebrated the revitalization of one of the city’s historic sites. With the full power of the community, it was able to open a 50-acre, city-owned parcel that is now home to over 150 housing units and fully leased commercial spaces that are dedicated to local businesses. The Railyard also serves as an epicenter for local events, restaurants, live entertainment, gallery-openings, shopping destinations, artist talks, and a year-round farmer’s market. Conclusion The Aspire 2024 conference in Santa Fe highlights the transformative power of community-driven initiatives and creative economies in urban development. Tacoma's leaders gleaned valuable insights from Santa Fe's experiences, particularly in revitalizing public and private spaces to foster economic growth and cultural engagement. By centering the importance of investment around community interaction, the effectiveness of public-private partnerships, and the role of local artists in rejuvenating spaces for tourism and business, the city of Sante Fe has set a standard as to how Tacoma can adapt and innovate, ultimately enhancing the South Sound's own creative landscape and community vitality. By embracing these principles, Tacoma can cultivate an environment where both businesses and the arts thrive, ensuring a vibrant future for all residents.  Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in October 2024:
The News Tribune has officially announced the winners of the 2024 Best of Pierce County! The magazine and program showcase the effort to discover and celebrate the businesses, people, and places the community loves most – as voted by you! Best of Pierce County had over 5,000 businesses, organizations, and individuals competing to be named in the top three spots of 204 categories. During the voting, more than 125,000 votes were cast, an amazing response in the first year, and a testament to how customers, fans, and friends feel about their favorite local businesses and the pride they have for the area. Congratulations to all Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber members winners! Chamber Member Winners
We love our ambassador team and are very grateful to have their support! Our Chamber ambassadors are an extension of the Chamber staff, allowing our members to have more points of contact. We want to highlight each ambassador as a 'thank you' for their continued support and dedication that they put into the ambassador team. We asked each ambassador a set of questions in an effort to become better acquainted and get a preview of their life outside of ambassador work. For October, we will be highlighting the enthusiastic Ciara Boyce!
Learn More About the Ambassador Program
Interested in learning more about what it takes to be a Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber ambassador? Learn more here. One year ago, on October 5th, University Place got a little hotter...not the weather unfortunately, but because of the addition of HOTWORX Studio! Franchise owners, Ciara Boyce and Tracey Pidge, took the ultimate leap of opening their own HOTWORX fitness studio in 2023 and invited our Chamber to celebrate their anniversary. HOTWORX University Place is a 24-hour infrared fitness studio equipped with 10 sauna rooms and a FX ZONE (functional exercise area). Members are led in a variety of workout sessions taught by highly skilled virtual instructors; with three paces they can choose to follow. You can often find Ciara and Tracey ‘earning the burn’ (a popular motivational phrase used by the virtual instructors) multiple times a day, every day! Through heartfelt speeches by co-owners Boyce and Pidge, the Warriors (aka the members) were thanked for trusting them and supporting HOTWORX University Place. They made special shoutouts to their spouses and loved ones for the continued belief in their personal mission statements, which has gotten them to where they are today. We were joined by Council Member Melanie Grassi, several members of the community, Warriors (some who left the sauna mid-session to watch the ribbon being cut!), and even Fudge the bulldog, who was able to get in on the celebration. Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Board Chair, Kierra Phifer, led the team in the countdown to cut the ribbon and we ended the ceremony by signing the cut piece of ribbon. Each individual staff member is passionate about what they do and is eager to help you meet your fitness goals inside and outside the sauna. Schedule some time to meet with them and book your first HOTWORX session here. Website: www.hotworx.net/studio/universityplace Phone: (253) 336-3090 Every year in late August through September, Puyallup, Washington takes on a massive undertaking – the Washington State Fair. The Washington State Fair is not only the largest fair in the Pacific Northwest, but one of the largest in the world. Hundreds of thousands of visitors each day have so much to experience from concerts in the Umpqua Bank Grandstands, a showcase of agriculture and farming, and 13 plus buildings to walk through all offering a variety of activities. This year, the fair had something that has never been offered before – the Pierce County Business Accelerator vendor section. Every three days, six new PCBA program graduates had the chance to share their unique businesses with Fair guests. Located in the Pavilion Marketplace right inside the Gold Gate on the fairgrounds, it was the perfect venue for these booths. The Pavilion Marketplace historically hosts small ‘maker’ businesses, 4-H contestants, and much more. PCBA vendors offered a variety of products including custom painted glassware, season-trendy clothing, handknit plushies, self/body care products, jam-filled jars, laser cut wood ornaments, handmade jewelry, beard oil, perfumes, Croc charms, and more! If you were unable to walk-through the Pavilion Marketplace and shop these PCBA vendors, then head over to the PCBA Website, Pierce County Business Accelerator (pcbamap.biz), to check out not only these grads, but also the other 450+ graduates. The PCBA is a program of the Pierce County Economic Development Department funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and administered by the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce. The City of Lakewood is a municipal partner. The PCBA is managed in partnership with Next Consulting, Asia Pacific Cultural Center, The Black Collective, Mi Centro, and Korean Women’s Association. To learn more visit PCBA.biz. Autumn is here and what is cozier than a historic courtroom and an elegant ballroom to gather for September’s Chamber After Hours? Court House Square, located in the heart of Downtown Tacoma, opened their fourth floor for attendees to walk through the courtroom and network in the ballroom. Jessica Johnston, Director of Court House Square and Chamber Ambassador, was there to share knowledge of the 114-year-old venue over upbeat music and delicious food catered by fellow Chamber member, Cafe Pacific Catering. Guests enjoyed sandwich-sliders, pasta salad, and a charcuterie station where they could make their own spread. On a sweeter note, there was Almond Roca sprinkled cannoli, crème brulée, and peanut butter pie to top off the night. To accompany the food, bartender Derek was happy to pour you some wine, or pop-the-top off a cold one. There was a punch as well that was a hit amongst the crowd! Thank you, Jessica, for hosting September’s Chamber After Hours! We look forward to more events taking place in your beautiful venue and the hallowed halls. October 2024 Chamber After Hours If you missed September’s Chamber After Hours and are looking to attend October’s, registration is now open! October’s Chamber After Hours will be held at New Tacoma Cemeteries Funeral Home & Crematory. Halloween costumes / themed clothing is optional! Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in September 2024:
Physio Performance (formerly Physio Movement and Performance) celebrated four years of business on Friday, September 20, and the ribbon cutting ceremony did not disappoint! From dozens of giveaway prizes to electrolyte drink samples, and more, guests were able to join in on the celebration. Dr. Becky and her highly qualified team dressed to the nines with a coordinating color scheme matching the company’s logo, which was a fun way to recognize the celebration and is indicative of their company culture. Each staff member is dedicated to what they do, coming back every day to improve the lives of their clients. They are truly committed to Physio Performance, and it shows. Clients range from high school students to firefighters and everyone in between. Before this year, Physio Performance was confined to a small footprint in the building they were leasing. They are now happy to have the entire suite to themselves, which includes a gym space. With the acquisition of this gym space, they can now offer even more fitness classes and can take on more appointments in the workday. If you are in the market for some physical therapy, strength training, or performance enhancement, book with Physio Performance today! Website: https://thephysioperformance.com Phone: (253) 200-0741 Email: [email protected]  We are honored to announce the list of nominees for the 2024 Spotlight on Business Awards! Each year, these awards celebrate exceptional Chamber member businesses and organizations that achieve incredible things in local commerce, in their industries, and in the community. We can't wait to celebrate all the nominees (and announce the winners!) at our upcoming Annual Meeting on Friday, November 8, 2024. Reserve your table for the 2024 Annual Meeting here! Award Categories
Eligibility Requirements Businesses must be an active member of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber in order to be considered for a Spotlight Award. Nominations for these awards were submitted by businesses and community members. 2024 Spotlight on Business Awards Nominees:
Last Tuesday evening, we welcomed the Spaceworks Fall Business Plan Cohort at their first session at the Chamber office! This cohort includes businesses like; Illustrator, Clothing designer, Ceramicists, Art Therapist, and Tattoo Artist, to name a few. We’re excited to walk them through their business plan development and look forward to inviting you all to their graduation! About Spaceworks Business Plan Cohort The Business Plan Cohort is the backbone of Spaceworks Tacoma's Incubator and results in a formal business plan. Participants meet once a week for 12 weeks (3 hours/week). This cohort focuses on those businesses that have tested their product or service in the market (friends, family, markets, Etsy, brick and mortar, etc.) and have a clear understanding of what they are providing to the customer. At the end of this 12-week cohort, participants will have gained the knowledge to successfully run your business, a completed business plan, and will have presented your pitch at your Graduation. Photo of Incubator alum, BirdLoft:  The Business Leadership Academy of Tacoma-Pierce County aims to connect both current and emerging leaders with our business community, fostering leadership development and interaction with exemplary figures in their respective fields. This program is sponsored by the Chamber and Pacific Lutheran University and has been a regional community leadership program since 1978. This program kicked off its 46th year last week as we welcomed 19 excited leaders into the Business Leadership Academy community! There are many things to look forward to over the next several weeks as these leaders explore leader development, assess their leadership strengths and weaknesses, learn from leaders that contribute to the vitality of our community, and visit organizations at the heart of our regional business community. During the first day of class, students received the chance to hear from Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber President & CEO, Andrea H. Reay. She shared more on her career journey, valuable leadership insight, and what led her to our Chamber. Thank you, Andrea, for taking the time to speak to our BLA students! What's Ahead We are excited to engage with Tacoma's Downtown community through an extensive tour led by JD Elquist, Retail Advocate at Downtown Tacoma Partnership. Additionally, our Economic Development Tour will take participants through the Port of Tacoma, showcasing the vibrant economic opportunities in the region. These tours will highlight the dynamic business environment and offer valuable insights into Tacoma's economic landscape. Vice President of Strategic Engagement Announces Departure & New Role at Puyallup-Sumner Chamber9/4/2024
Alison Shaffer, born and raised in Puyallup, brings a deep understanding of the unique business environment and strong sense of community that defines the South Sound region.
With a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Washington State University, Alison began her career at a boutique advertising agency in Seattle, where she spent a decade on and off as a national broadcast media buyer, managing campaigns in over 20 major U.S. markets. A lifelong love of interior design, Alison founded The Modern Cottage Company in 2010, a design and antique retail business in Tacoma, Washington. In 2012, Alison was among the first selected for the Spaceworks, a program of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and City of Tacoma. Alison later served on the Spaceworks steering committee. Over eight years, Alison opened and operated multiple retail shops across the South Sound, including a pop-up in downtown Seattle and several co-op stores with local artists and business owners. Since January 2019, Alison has served in leadership and as Vice President of Strategic Engagement and Programming at the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce. In this role, Alison has been instrumental in advancing programs that support local businesses, expanding membership, and strengthening community partnerships. Passionate about supporting local businesses, Alison is committed to fostering economic development and engagement throughout the region." Welcome to all the new members who joined our business community in August 2024:
The Covid-19 Pandemic was a time of entrepreneurship exploration for many people and Alicia Hall, Owner of Bomb Charcuterie is one of those people. During the pandemic, Alicia and her daughter took a zoom-course on ‘charcuterie-how-to' and building creative cheeseboards quickly became her favorite hobby. Alicia started small by sharing her craft with friends and family. However, once she realized what a great opportunity it presented, she set out to make it her full-time job. Hall graduated from the Pierce County Business Accelerator Program ready to break ground on her new vocational journey and in January of 2024, claimed 919 Kincaid Avenue in the heart of Downtown Sumner as her new headquarters. Husband, Aaron, and Alicia started renovating what used to be a clothing boutique, expecting it to take only three months or so to finish. Unfortunately, three months turned into eight. However, on August 28th, Bomb Charcuterie celebrated their grand opening with a crowd full of family, friends, Sumner residents, and some special guests! Attendees included the City of Sumner’s Mayor, Kathy Hayden; Lori Waltier, Executive Director of the Sumner Main Street Association (who partnered with the Chamber to put this on); and many other administrative folks from the City of Sumner. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber thanks Alicia Hall for inviting us to commemorate the opening of Bomb Charcuterie with a ribbon cutting ceremony. If you are in the market for cheese and other charcuterie provisions, sandwiches, tartines, catering at a variety of events, workshops on charcuterie 101, or other gifts inspired by the rich tradition of France and Italy, then travel by car, foot, or train to get a taste of this Bomb Charcuterie! Website: Charcuterie Boards Puyallup, WA | Bomb Charcuterie
Contact Information: Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber Andrea H. Reay President & CEO 253-627-2175 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TACOMA - August 28, 2024 - This past June, The City of Tacoma, in collaboration with the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and EMC Research, launched its first-ever Economic Development Business Climate Survey. "Our local businesses are the backbone of our community, and this survey gives us valuable insights into their needs and challenges,” said Mayor Victoria Woodards. “By understanding these results, we can work together with our business community to continue to create a thriving economic environment that supports growth and innovation supported by city policies and actions.” The primary objective of the survey was collecting wide and comprehensive data to help ensure that the economic development work we do is truly centered in and for our local business community. These valuable insights will help inform the City Council and Economic Development priorities for 2025. Tacoma Pierce County Chamber President and CEO, Andrea H. Reay “The Tacoma Pierce County Chamber was excited to work with the City of Tacoma to understand firsthand the needs of the business community. We look forward to using this valuable insight to strengthen the local economy and improve the outlook for all of Tacoma’s businesses.” Feedback from this survey will play a crucial role in ensuring that the City of Tacoma continues to meet the needs of its business community while prioritizing future investments. All businesses within the city were encouraged to participate in the survey, which focused on their experiences as members of Tacoma's business community. The survey was offered in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Korean. 221 businesses completed interviews; 174 of the businesses had a physical location in the City of Tacoma. Outreach and support of the survey was provided from community partners including Asia Pacific Cultural Center, Korean Women’s Association, The Black Collective, Tacoma Urban League, and Mi Centro. Primary findings from the survey indicate that the Business Health Index is doing “okay”, 6.34 on a scale of 0-10. There were strong positive results in terms of the commitment businesses have to Tacoma as a great place to have a business. The most important factors in choosing a business location are safety, cleanliness, and the cost of doing business, specifically taxes. Improving communication from the City of Tacoma on policies that could impact business was important to 87% of businesses. “As Chair of the Economic Development Committee, ensuring that the City of Tacoma is an exceptional partner for local businesses is a top priority,” said Council Member Kiara Daniels. “This survey provides important insights into what our local businesses need to achieve their goals and the challenges they are facing. I’m eager to ensure that we translate this information into action and continue to make Tacoma an ideal environment for our businesses.” Link here for the full survey result report. About the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is the voice for business and a catalyst for prosperity in Tacoma. Our vision is to support a thriving business environment that promotes economic growth and livability in our community. About the City of Tacoma
The City of Tacoma is committed to fostering a vibrant business environment. In line with Resolution 41069, the City is conducting this Business Climate Survey with a diverse group of businesses to deepen our understanding of their needs, optimize existing resources, and prioritize anti-racism in policy recommendations. What is the go-to food any day of the week, on holidays, and of course the morning after a night out? If you guessed Chinese food, you’d be correct! Panda Express has been serving freshly prepared American Chinese food with real ingredients since 1983. Launching in California, they have now spread to over 2,500 locations spanning across the United States and in eleven international countries. Here in Washington State alone, we have over 70 stores. Local to Pierce County, Spanaway just got their first Panda Express on August 15th! Residents flooded the complex forming a line of several dozen people-deep, well before 8:00 o’clock in the morning! Guests were greeted by not only a giant blow-up Panda, but a mascot named ‘Pay’ ready to pose for a photo with a “thumbs-up”. While waiting for the doors to open, they were also entertained by the talented Spanaway Lake High School Cheer Squad, ‘Sway’*. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber was able to introduce Josie Cervantes, Area Coach of Operations; Janine Lorenzo, Training Leader; along with several more Panda Family team members to commemorate the grand opening. After the speeches were given and the ribbon was cut, the first customer was welcomed and given a special prize from Pay for the accomplishment. Also, the first 88 guests were given a swag bag with a Panda Express branded t-shirt inside. If you are wanting to indulge in some delicious American Chinese favorites such as The Original Orange Chicken or Chow Mein, head over to the newest Panda Express in Spanaway-nicknamed ‘Panda Home’ because it is an invitation into the store that which takes on traditional Chinese architecture elements. Things like red lanterns, a moon gate portal, Chinatown signs and more, gives the restaurant a sense of home and hospitality. Inside the store, guests can get a glimpse of who Panda Express is as a brand, experience the culture, and meet the Panda Family of associates. *Each member of the squad gave verbal consent for photos/videos to be taken and shared. What started as a young boy’s dream of owning a confectionery shop in Germany, where he could work in the shop pouring fresh chocolate into bars whilst children stood outside gazing in through the window in amazement, turned into owning Boba Tea Island (BTI), a boba tea cafe in Lakewood where people of all ages come in to enjoy delicious bubble tea! Hakan Yilmaz is not only the proud Owner of BTI, but also a Pierce County Business Accelerator Program Graduate, and quite the entrepreneur. Hakan invited the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber to celebrate the new-ownership, renovation, and renaming of the business with a ribbon cutting ceremony. What sets Boba T Island apart from the rest is the fact that they are partnering with Tacoma’s Sister City Fuzhou, China, to import the tea that they sell at the shop. They have partnered with The World Trade Center Tacoma, Asia Pacific Cultural Center, Tacoma Sister Cities, and Tacoma-Pierce County EDB, along with several other organizations to make this possible. With an incredible staff, fun and playful environment, along with sweet treats for sale, BTI is the best cafe to meet a friend, have a quick day-date, or just relax and read a book while you enjoy your boba beverage. Thank you Hakan for allowing the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber to be a part of your big day, and good luck on your new endeavor! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobatisland/ We love our ambassador team and are very grateful to have their support! Our Chamber ambassadors are an extension of the Chamber staff, allowing our members to have more points of contact. We want to highlight each ambassador as a 'thank you' for their continued support and dedication that they put into the ambassador team. We asked each ambassador a set of questions in an effort to become better acquainted and get a preview of their life outside of ambassador work. For September, we will be highlighting the wonderful Sarah Asay!
Learn More About the Ambassador Program
Interested in learning more about what it takes to be a Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber ambassador? Learn more here. The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber was able to celebrate the grand opening of Bloom Society, a women’s connection group, and consignment shop all in one! When you walk through the blush-pink door, you find yourself surrounded by trinkets, homemade jewelry and art, soaps, greeting cards, and so much more! Towards the back of the shop, you enter a private event space that doubles as a pop-up shop for vendors such as a photographer, and a permanent-jewelry jeweler. In addition, there is a lash studio that occupies the room at the back of the building. Getting to where the shop is today, was a journey “full of blood, sweat, tears; labor of a lot of love” as Jessica Larimore, Owner and graduate of the Pierce County Business Accelerator program, shared with the group at the ribbon cutting ceremony. Mother Lynn, and Daughter Jessica, spent many hours renovating the shop including putting up the crown molding, and even constructing the cashier’s desk. Although the weather was a bit gloomy on this late-August day, it did not deter folks from coming by to support the opening of this small business. In fact, one attendee was able to purchase a ‘just because’ gift for his wife (which of course he sought the wisdom of Jessica to pick out!). These gifts and products are locally made by creators in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, so when you are shopping at Bloom Society, you’re not just supporting them, you are supporting women all over the Pacific Northwest. Be sure to follow Bloom Society on their social media outlets and take a trip to Ruston when you can for a mooch around the shop! Website: HOME | Bloom Society (bloomsocietypnw.com) |
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