Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce Talks with Roby Brock
In pre-event questioning with Brock, the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce was able to gather insightful information that will help Searcy and White County business leaders become informed in their decision-making process. During the event, discussion included in-depth statistics and trends for the Searcy and White County area as they compare to the state and other regions. Data was be given about consumer spending, housing, and employment along with elaboration on what these trends mean for our regional businesses. Mentioned was the “fall-off of the Fayetteville Shale” and the resulting opportunity to consider new potential for the area. He also explained that state unemployment is low and changes in the manufacturing businesses and the service industry all have an impact on economic trends. He added that current generations are not gaining income or spending in traditional ways which is “re-defining the economy.” The recommendation is that we measure how we, at the local level, can make these changes work for us.
He also discussed workforce availability and workforce readiness which are complicated issues that employers are currently encountering on a different level than what they have seen before. The recommendation is to make adjustments in preparation for the needs of the employer by equipping the workforce with hands-on training and education that target the specific requirements of the industries. According to Brock, when these changes are implemented, value is added for area employers showing that we are prepared to work for them. In order to be successful, future and present employees must make adjustments in their willingness to adapt and to learn the skills needed in the workforce.
Of further interest to local businesses was the reality that online sales are hurting the brick and mortar businesses and municipalities in the area. Other communities are feeling this in the same way too. Brock explained that some businesses are trying to increase their online sales to compensate. Municipalities are also looking for new ways to gain profit. “But ultimately this is a problem that Congress or the courts are going to have to fix,” he said. To combat all of these challenges we are advised not to go beyond the resources we have but to create “a vision” for our community assessing the current position and what we want to see it become in the future. This must be communicated as a simple and clear goal to everyone involved in the community.
Brock suggested that Searcy identify a specific vision for what Searcy wants to be and work together to make it happen. We do have growth and great opportunities in the Searcy area. Let’s take the momentum, create a vision, and work together for our community! The by Invitation Only event was held as a service of the Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce and provides a privilege for its members and the businesses attending the EXPO. It is an opportunity to enrich and educate business leaders. The Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce consists of a group of businesses who join as members in order to work toward mutual goals. This group works to promote member business and Searcy and the surrounding areas to prospective residents, visitors, businesses, and other interested parties. Chamber membership is an investment in Searcy and the region to foster growth, better business climate, and a higher quality of life. The Chamber is pleased to work with the city of Searcy and other surrounding areas to improve our community and the business potential.