This week, the Temple Chamber of Commerce joins chambers across the state in celebrating Texas Chamber of Commerce Week, officially proclaimed by Governor Greg Abbott to recognize the vital role local Chambers play in driving economic growth and community prosperity.

Chambers of Commerce are more than Membership organizations; they are connectors, advocates, and catalysts for progress. From small business support to workforce development and public policy leadership, Chambers power local economies and keep Texas the best place to live, work, and do business.

Here in Temple, that mission is alive and well. Every day, the Temple Chamber helps businesses connect with opportunity, strengthen their voice, and access the tools they need to succeed. As part of this week of celebration, we’re proud to continue that commitment by launching a new online business intelligence tool designed to help local businesses make smarter, data-driven decisions.

This free digital resource—available Thursday, October 16—will make market research and competitive insights more accessible than ever before for Temple’s small business community. It’s another way the Temple Chamber is helping entrepreneurs plan, grow, and thrive in a changing economy.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the impact of Chambers across Texas and in exploring this new era of business empowerment right here in Temple.

Learn more and join the launch event on Thursday, October 16, 9:00 a.m. at the Temple Chamber of Commerce. RSVP today:  https://bit.ly/EmpowerLocalBusiness
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Read the Governor’s Proclamation 

October is National Manufacturing Month, and the Temple Chamber of Commerce is highlighting the businesses that fuel the region’s economy, create jobs, and strengthen global competitiveness. Among these industry leaders is Materials Transportation Company (MTC), a long-standing Temple-based manufacturer that recently announced a major expansion move.

MTC has acquired the assets of Sackett Systems Inc., a step that significantly broadens its footprint in the battery handling equipment market. The cash transaction includes inventory, equipment, and intangible assets. Importantly, it positions MTC to serve not only its existing customers but also those who rely on Sackett equipment for daily operations.

With this acquisition, MTC will now provide replacement parts and service for Sackett equipment, ensuring continuity and support for customers across the country. For Ken Alessi, CEO of MTC, the deal represents more than business growth, it’s about reinforcing a reputation built on quality and relationships.

“At the core of this acquisition is a commitment to deliver exceptional service, build lasting relationships, and never compromise on quality,” said Alessi. “We’re focused on making this transition seamless, not just operationally, but relationally. At MTC, we Do More for all our business partners and stakeholders.”

Based in Temple, MTC is an employee-owned business (ESOP) that has an over 70-year reputation built on dependable equipment, responsive service, and a customer-first culture. The company’s expansion through this acquisition further cements its role as a trusted partner in the battery handling industry.

For former Sackett customers, the transition offers a clear benefit: access to familiar products and reliable service from a company that has been doing business right the first time for decades. For Temple, it underscores the strength and adaptability of the region’s manufacturing sector.
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As part of Manufacturing Month, the Temple Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate members like MTC who drive the community forward. Manufacturing remains one of the largest business sectors in the local economy, providing not only high-quality jobs but also innovative solutions that reach far beyond Central Texas.

Something big is coming for small business.

The Temple Chamber of Commerce is preparing to unveil a powerful new digital resource designed to help local entrepreneurs and business owners make smarter, data-driven decisions. Think of it as having access to the kind of insights large corporations use to stay ahead, now available for every business in Temple.

With just a few clicks, business owners will be able to benchmark their performance against competitors, discover new customers and suppliers, identify the best places to advertise, and explore detailed information about local demographics and consumer spending.

This new online platform is designed to make advanced market intelligence accessible anytime and anywhere, helping local businesses make informed decisions and identify opportunities for growth.

Join the Temple Chamber for the official launch event on Thursday, October 16, at 9:00 a.m. at the Temple Chamber of Commerce. Be among the first to see the tool in action and learn how it can support the success of Temple’s business community.

This marks a new era of opportunity, where innovation and insight come together to strengthen local business.