Schapiro Group Study
Why Chamber Membership Matters More Than You Think
What the Schapiro Group Study Reveals About Consumer Trust and Chamber Affiliation
At the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, we’ve long known that membership makes a real difference—not just in networking and advocacy, but in how your business is perceived by the public. And here's the data to prove it.
A national study conducted by The Schapiro Group* surveyed over 2,000 adults and confirmed what we’ve seen time and time again: being active in your local chamber of commerce boosts consumer confidence—and your bottom line.
What the Study Found
- 49% more likely to think favorably of a business if they know it’s a Chamber member
- 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from a business associated with the Chamber
- 10% more likely to believe a business offers better products than competitors if it’s a Chamber member
- 36% more likely to look favorably on restaurants that are Chamber members
The bottom line? Chamber membership builds trust.
The study shows that consumers associate Chamber membership with businesses that:
- Use good business practices
- Care about their customers
- Are actively involved in their communities
These are the building blocks of the “know, like, and trust” philosophy that drives consumer behavior.
Why It Matters to Your Business
You Demonstrate That You Care
When customers see that your business is a Chamber member, it signals more than just affiliation—it shows commitment. Membership reflects a desire to invest in the local community, to stay rooted here, and to grow alongside the community. Even if you’re not heavily involved in every initiative, your membership alone positions you as civic-minded and community-oriented.
You Benefit from Implied Endorsement
Although we don’t officially “endorse” businesses like the Better Business Bureau might, many in the public still perceive Chamber membership as a vote of confidence. Consumers trust us—and that trust extends to our members.
You’re Investing in Something Bigger
Chamber membership isn’t mandatory. It’s a choice—a decision to support local economic development, business advocacy, and regional growth. That investment tells your customers you’re not just doing business in the community, you’re doing business for the community. And today’s consumers appreciate a business with a cause.
A Shortcut to Know, Like, and Trust
Building customer relationships takes time. But Chamber membership offers a trusted starting point. When you align your brand with a respected institution like the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, you benefit from our reputation. In many ways, we’re vouching for you—whether officially or not.
If you're looking to establish deeper connections, stand out from competitors, and show your customers you're here to stay, membership with the Chamber is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Ready to Strengthen Your Business Reputation?
Speak to a Business Development representative today! Call 480.355.2700 or email info@scottsdalechamber.com
* The study was conducted by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm. It was commissioned by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), in cooperation with the Western Association of Chamber Executives. The study was sponsored by Insperity, a Houston-based company that provides human resources and other business services to more than 100,000 businesses nationwide.