It’s business as usual at two local Chambers of Commerce, but behind the scenes there is some serious discussion about the future of both. The Benton Area Chamber of Commerce along with the Greater Bryant Chamber of Commerce are officially exploring a potential merger to form a single regional organization. Read more below.
In a joint statement issued to their members on Friday, July 10, 2026, chamber chairs Brent Jones of Benton and Fred Knox of Bryant confirmed the exploratory talks. The full statement is at the end of this article.
The boards have appointed representatives from each chamber to review the potential impacts on governance, member services, financial considerations, and the broader community – all to determine if a formal partnership is the best path forward.
The evaluation process is expected to take 90 days. Both leaders emphasized that no final decision has been made and that the two chambers will continue their standard operations and business as usual during this exploration period. Members will be briefed on the findings and any recommended next steps once the 90 days conclude.
The regional merger conversation comes during a period of transition for the Bryant Chamber. Shane Knight officially resigned as President on June 12, 2026, after serving for 27 months.
JOINT STATEMENT FROM BENTON & BRYANT CHAMBERS:
Chamber Members,
We wanted to share an update with our members about a conversation underway between the Benton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Bryant Chamber of Commerce.
Together, we are exploring whether a more formal partnership, including the possibility of forming one regional chamber, would better serve our members.
No decision has been made.
Board members from each chamber are looking at ways to better serve and support our members. Designated representatives from each chamber have been appointed to review financial considerations, member services, governance, and community impact.
This exploration process is expected to take 90 days. During that time, both chambers will continue business as usual.
At the end of the exploration period, members will be updated on the findings and any recommended next steps.
Brent Jones, Benton Area Chamber of Commerce Chair
Fred Knox, Greater Bryant Chamber of Commerce Chair
MySaline is following this story and will update with anything new.
Browse MySaline’s list of all the events in Saline County at www.mysaline.com/events.
Subscribe to MySaline’s email newsletter for news and events in your inbox twice a week!
