Republic Area Chamber of Commerce closes office, goes virtual—for now

‘New normal’ cited in new change to chamber operation that will still serve Republic business community
 
The Republic Chamber of Commerce will no longer maintain a physical location in the city. Instead, the Chamber will now have their office online.
Britny Fulks, vice-chairman of the chamber, said the decision to have the chamber maintain an online presence was made due to the “new normal” that the year 2020 has created.
“The Republic Chamber of Commerce decided to go virtual as of November of 2020,” she said. “This year has brought many challenges and a new normal. With COVID- 19, our lives have changed. Business employees are working remotely, from home. Many business owners have had to revamp and brand all processes to fit this new normal. Through all, the chamber has many faithful members who continue to support and serve.”
Fulks said the chamber’s 2020 Business Expo showed how the pandemic has altered the sense of normalcy in everyday life and played a role in the decision for the Chamber to create a virtual office.
 “Each year, the chamber puts on events to help promote the city and its businesses, the largest event being the Business Expo,” she said. “The event was postponed to the fall due to COVID- 19, with success even though it did not meet typical thresholds from previous years. With this new normal, the Chamber of Commerce office will go virtual.”
Going virtual, Fulks said, will help maintain service to members and the community.
“This decision will continue to allow the chamber to function efficiently while putting our members, businesses, and community first, without a home office,” she said.
While there will be changes, Fulks said, some aspects of the chamber will remain the same.
“The chamber phone number will stay the same and monthly luncheons will continue,” she said.
Fulks also said the chamber’s board of directors would also work to help members as needed.
“If you are needing to pick up supplies or information, contact the director and a meeting will be set up to get the material to you,” she said. “Our dedicated board of directors, scattered through our community, are willing and ready to help make this transition smooth for our city.”
Due to the uncertainty of upcoming events, Fulks said there was no way to determine if the change to a virtual office will be permanent.
“As the future may be unknown, the chamber does not see this plan being long-term,” she said. “As always, we are here to help support our growing community.”
Fulks said anything needing to be mailed to the chamber can be sent to PO BOX 682, Republic, Mo., 65738. The number to reach the chamber is (417) 732-5200.