The Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon on Friday, October 21 at the Brownwood Country Club from 11:30 AM to 1 PM. The luncheon, which is open to members and guests, will feature an interesting program and will also include door prizes, introduction of new members and a cash drawing.

This month’s presentation will feature information from the Retail Coach.  The consulting firm will release its retail study of Brownwood to local business owner and entrepreneurs for the first time during the luncheon.  The initial phase of their study showed that actual sales in Brownwood’s Retail Trade Area verses opportunity in the market show a short-fall of $422 million.

Their report indicates that there are an estimated 82,225 people who reside in Brownwood’s Retail Trade Area.  Based on state averages, this population would ordinarily spend $705 million in retail goods and services each year.  Actual sales locally, however, are only $283 million annually.  Some of the categories with the greatest “leakage” or opportunity for expansion include eating places, clothing, footwear, electronics and hobby or game shops.

The Retail Coach will give a complete overview of the study during a lunch-hour presentation.  A more detailed analysis will continue at 1:15 pm after the lunch presentation.  A complete copy of the study and all of its findings will be available following the meeting. 

The Retail Coach was hired through a joint effort of the City of Brownwood, Brownwood Economic Development Corporation, and the Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce to help strengthen the area’s retail base by assisting local retailers as well as looking to recruit new retail businesses to the area.

The cost of the luncheon is $10 per person to be paid at the door. Anyone interested in attending the luncheon is urged to RSVP to the Chamber by calling 325-646- 9535. You can also register online on the Chamber’s website: www.brownwoodchamber.org