Networking

These events provide members with the opportunity to establish new contacts, build up and strengthen existing relationships, as well as being kept abreast of the latest initiatives that could affect their business.

These events include the Annual Dinner, Christmas Charity Lunch, Newry Business Awards and business lunches with guest speakers.

Lobbying
Membership of the Chamber means that you are part of the largest pro-active business support organisation in the Greater Newry Area. Lobbying and representation are important aspects of your membership. Newry Chamber lobbies locally, regionally and nationally with Government and other authorities on issues that are of concern to its members. Member's viewpoints are sought and expressed, and we ensure that your opinions and demands are recognised.

Representation
Newry Chamber is represented in a number of umbrella organisations

Chambers of Commerce of Ireland (CCI )- Newry Chamber is as an associate member of the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland, members of Newry Chamber can network with 59 affiliated chambers representing 12,000 member companies.

Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI)- Newry Chamber is an integral member of NICCI. The former President of Newry Chamber Mr Jerome Mullen was elected to the NICCI Council in July 2005. Mr Mullen represents the Newry Chamber on Council and works closely with it in promoting the commercial and industrial interests of the Greater Newry Area and Northern Ireland as a whole.

Newry Dundalk Joint Chamber Forum - Newry Chamber works in partnership with Dundalk Chamber through the cross border Newry Dundalk Joint Chamber Forum . This body provides members of both Chambers the opportunity to network with their cross border counterparts through initiatives aimed at promoting social and economic development for the Newry and Dundalk region. A number of Forum events scheduled throughout the year including 'Meet the Buyer' events, seminars, workshops, speed networking, conferences, etc. The aim of the Forum is to encourage business development for SME's, increase employment, improve image / profile of the area and increase inward investment.

Newry City Centre Management - The Newry Chamber is represented on the Board of City Centre Management. City Centre Management is responsible for promoting the City as a great place to live, work, play and invest in, through events, festivals, concerts, etc.

Members also receive regular email bulletins informing them about forthcoming events, business news items and information important to the business community.

Newry Business Awards
Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade was the proud host of the first local Business Awards Ceremony in June 2004. This highly successful event laid the foundation for a bi-annual Business Awards Ceremony. The Business Awards recognise the efforts of business in the City whilst promoting excellence in the quality of products, services and customer care. They also serve as testament to the talent, motivation, innovation and success of the local business fraternity.

At this Chamber lead event a total of 14 awards offer every business in Newry (be they local independent or multi-national, manufacturer, retailer, or service provider) employing two or two hundred, the opportunity to enter and make their case for recognition.

The Business Awards provide an opportunity for the business community to enhance the feeling of vibrancy and optimism that prevails in Newry City today and to showcase themselves and their staff by entering the various categories.

Newry Chamber is well underway for organising the next Business Award ceremony that will take place on Friday 26 th May 2006.

For more information on any of the above please call the Chamber Office on 028 3025 0303.