Neighborhood Gathering: The Chamber of Commerce Inc. Hosts Annual Business Expo

Despite the unusual spring snowstorm, it was a packed house Monday at The Chamber of Commerce Inc.’s annual Neighborhood Business Expo at the Four Points by Sheraton Pittsburgh North in Mars.

“It takes more than snow to stop this Chamber from bringing businesses together,” joked Rebecca Martin, who became president and CEO of The Chamber in February.

The Chamber of Commerce Inc. —which serves North Pittsburgh, Northern Allegheny and the Cranberry Corridors—had more than 120 local vendors at this year’s expo, which now is in its forth year.

Besides providing information about local businesses, the event offers food, drinks and plenty of prizes and giveaways.

“The coolest thing about being a chamber is it’s our job to pull all these businesses together,” Martin said.

While the expo featured many established businesses, there were a few new faces this year, including which will celebrate one year of business along Main Street in Evans City in August.

Co-owner Maria Wroblewski, who runs the bakeshop with her husband, Justin Wroblewski, was busy Monday handing out samples of Tin Man’s award-winning cupcakes.

She added she appreciated the opportunity the expo gave her to meet new customers. The gathering, which is The Chamber’s signature event, typically attracts about 1,000 people.

“This is very impressive,” Wroblewski said. “We’ve had a nice traffic flow.” 

Also new to the expo this year was Annette Zvirman, owner of the FurEver Green All-Natural Dog Spa in Mars.

The business, which opened in the fall along Mars-Valencia Road, offers dog grooming using organic products only. The store also carries other “green” items, including dog collars made from recycled bicycle inter-tubes. 

“Everything in the store fits the green theme,” Zvirman said.

Martin added there’s always something new to see and different ways for businesses to connect at the expo.

“There’s just nothing like seeing businesses doing business,” she said.

Did you attend The Chamber’s Neighborhood Business Expo? Tell us in the comment section below!

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