MERGER FAQS

1. Why are the two organizations merging? What are the benefits to members?
This merger represents a significant milestone in the business community, bringing together two like-minded organizations to better serve the needs and interests of businesses in Surrey and White Rock. Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade members will benefit from expanded networking opportunities, stronger advocacy, access to a broader range of programs and events, and a unified business voice for the entire region.
 

2. Has the merger already happened?
Following a vote by the members of the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce, the operations of both organizations will unite under one brand in the Summer of 2025. 
 

As both organizations are governed under the federal Board of Trade Act, official approval for the components of the merger must be granted through an Order in Council, and then by the Governor General. It is anticipated that the merger will be official in the fall of 2025, when we will unveil our refreshed brand and vision for the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade. 
 

3. Do I need to maintain separate memberships with both organizations during the transition?
No. As we unite our memberships in the Summer of 2025, members who currently have a membership with both organizations can choose not to renew their South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce membership moving forward.
 

4. How will the unique needs of our community be addressed?
The Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade remains committed to supporting the unique business communities within each region. We strive to host events in all areas of Surrey and White Rock throughout the year. The collectively stronger voice of the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade will create a more powerful impact when raising your advocacy issues, combined with a dedicated and experienced staff team to advance issues on your behalf.
 

5. Will White Rock have a voice?
White Rock businesses will have a stronger voice with the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade. Business leaders from White Rock are encouraged to be actively engaged on policy teams, at events, and as issues arise, ensuring that the needs of White Rock are represented. The Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade will have an experienced Policy Lead, ensuring that business issues are brought forward to the relevant level(s) of government.

At the SBOT AGM in June, a Board of Directors comprised of both Surrey Board of Trade and South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce members (some of which are from White Rock) will be inducted, serving as the inaugural Board of Directors for the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade. 
 

6. Can I transfer my membership from one organization to the other?
There is no action required from South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce members to transfer their membership. South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce members will receive new login credentials upon completion. There are no changes for current Surrey Board of Trade members.
 

7. What happens to events planned by each organization?
All events are now hosted jointly by the two organizations. Members of either organization have access to all events. 

8. Will I have access to the new organization’s services immediately?
Once the memberships are combined, members can access the full suite of benefits. For South Surrey & White Rock Chamber members, if there is a current SBOT benefit you’d like to access in advance, please reach out to membership@businessinsurrey.com to see how we may be able to accommodate this request. 
 

9. Will membership fees change after the merger?
All membership fees have been frozen during the transition. When South Surrey & White Rock Chamber members are transferred to the Surrey Board of Trade – soon to be renamed the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade –rates will not change for at least one year. After the first year, membership rates will follow the new Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade’s system. This system is still in development, but will be based on the Surrey Board of Trade tiered system, which considers the number of full time equivalent employees, adjusted for inflation. Currently, Surrey Board of Trade rates for a business with 1-2 employees are just $375 and unlock access to thousands of dollars or potential savings and value.
 

10. I have memberships with both organizations. What will happen to the fees I’ve paid?
Your Surrey Board of Trade membership will become a Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade membership and you will continue paying the same rate as you had been previously. Your South Surrey & White Rock Chamber membership will be converted into a pro-rated credit that you can use during the first year of the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade, towards your next membership renewal, events or marketing.
 

11. What will happen to my Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan?
Your Chamber of Commerce Group Health Insurance Program will continue seamlessly with no interruption in service. All your current contact and reference numbers will remain the same.
 

12. How will the merger affect advocacy efforts?
The merger is expected to strengthen advocacy by consolidating resources and providing a stronger, unified voice to represent business interests across Surrey and White Rock. Staff will be briefed on ongoing advocacy efforts, and members will be invited to join the policy teams to share their insights as Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade staff take leadership of advancing issues on behalf of members.
 

13. Will there be new programs or benefits introduced after the merger?
Staff are always looking at adding new programs and benefits for members. The immediate focus is on the existing benefits and onboarding all members as seamlessly as possible.
 

14. Can non-members participate in events hosted during the transition?
Absolutely! Non-member or general admission rates will continue to apply.
 

​15. How will communications and updates about the merger be shared?
Members will receive regular communications by email and they will be shared on each organization’s social media and merger website platforms.
 

16. ​How can I ensure my business’s voice is heard during the merger process?
The teams at the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce and the Surrey Board of Trade will be hosting engagement sessions to listen to feedback to help shape the future direction of the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade.
 

17.Who will be the CEO?
The Board of Directors of both the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce and the Surrey Board of Trade have appointed Joslyn Young as the CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade, and Acting Executive Director of the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce, to ultimately serve as the CEO of the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade. 

18. Will there be any changes to office locations or contact details?
The Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade is committed to maintaining office presence in both Surrey and White Rock. The Surrey Board of Trade’s current office location will remain the same. While the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce’s office is currently closed due to the end of a lease agreement, when feasible, we will look for a suitable space in the South Surrey/White Rock area. In the meantime, the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber team is working remotely.
 

We anticipate there being changes to email addresses and website addresses as systems are merged, but we are committed to maintaining current contact details to create a seamless transition.
 

19. Who do I contact for further questions or support?
Member Services staff: 

Karan Kukreja: membership@businessinsurrey.com | 604.634.0348

Sara Walters: admin@sswrchamber.ca | 604.536.6844