NILES, Mich. -- The Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce announced the conclusion of its formal service relationship with the South Bend Regional Chamber, effective Friday.

Officials say the mutually agreed-upon decision marks the natural conclusion of a successful partnership which helped guide the Greater Niles Chamber through a pivotal time in its organizational development.

“We are incredibly grateful to Jeff Rea and Ryan Boeskool for their years of leadership, partnership, and unwavering dedication to the Greater Niles business community,” said Bryan Van Itallie, Chair of the Greater Niles Chamber. “Their contributions have left a lasting impact and positioned us well for this next chapter. We look forward to continued collaboration on shared regional goals.”

After the 2019 merger of the Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce and the Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance, officials say the SBRC stepped in to provide executive leadership and operational support to the newly formed Greater Niles Chamber.

Niles officials say the collaboration helped unify and stabilize the organization. while laying the foundation for a stronger, more effective voice for the Niles-area business community.

They also add that although the contractual relationship has concluded, both chambers remain committed to working together on cross-border initiatives that strengthen the region's economy.