Miembro destacado: Custom Cleaning Service

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When the workday ends and the lights go down, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. gets to work. “We operate as our clients’ silent partner after business hours,” says Adam Paicos, of Templeton, who now serves as Director of Operations and oversees the company’s expansion into North Central MA. “We are not often seen, but we ensure facilities are clean, secure, and ready for business each day while serving as the eyes and ears for our clients when they are not on site.”

It’s a straightforward mission, but one that requires a level of trust that goes well beyond a mop and a vacuum. And for nearly five decades, Custom Cleaning Service has been earning that trust.

A Legacy Built on Reliability

The company was founded in 1977 by Jean and David Carlucci of Peabody, MA, and has since grown into a regionally recognized name in commercial cleaning and janitorial services. Today, it has established a footprint in North Central and Western MA, in addition to the company’s Peabody location. Adam Paicos, Jean’s son-in-law lives in Templeton with his wife and two young boys. The family ownership structure reflects something the company takes seriously: a personal stake in every client relationship.

Custom Cleaning serves a wide range of commercial environments, including financial institutions, professional offices, medical and dental practices, and commercial properties. The company specializes in multi-location accounts and currently services multiple branches for regional financial institutions. It also handles parking lot and structure cleaning for large businesses and works with general contractors on post-construction cleanups.

Consistency as a Competitive Edge

In an industry where quality can vary widely from one visit to the next, Custom Cleaning Service has made consistency its calling card. The company uses modern technology systems to track employee performance, verify time on site, and confirm that all tasks are completed to standard, complemented by routine supervisory inspections and quality control checks.

“This allows us to deliver dependable, high-quality service across multiple locations, which is something many companies struggle to maintain,” Paicos explains.

That commitment extends to the company’s workplace culture as well. Employees are expected to show up consistently, take pride in their work, and understand the stakes of operating in environments where trust is critical. Those who identify and report security risks at client sites, communicate effectively, and perform at a high level are recognized and rewarded.

The approach is working. One of the company’s proudest recent achievements has been earning the confidence of a large financial institution and delivering consistent service across 10 branch locations under a multi-year contract.

Rooted in North Central Massachusetts

Custom Cleaning Service has deep ties to the region it serves. Through involvement with local chambers and networking events, Paicos has built strong relationships with business owners and decision makers throughout Central Massachusetts. The company supports local recreation departments through youth sports sponsorships and extends discounts to fellow chamber members as a way of investing in the small business community.

“Relationships matter here,” Paicos says of North Central Massachusetts, “and that creates an environment where trust, reliability, and reputation carry real value.”

Mirando hacia adelante

The company’s growth trajectory is pointed firmly westward and outward. Custom Cleaning Service is investing in the systems and processes needed to scale across Central and Western Massachusetts, while maintaining the same standard of quality its clients have come to rely on. Radio advertising and digital marketing have recently been added to the mix to expand brand awareness, complementing the chamber and networking connections that have long been the company’s most effective growth engine.

For a business that has been quietly keeping offices clean and clients confident since 1977, the future looks bright.

 

Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. is locally operated in Templeton, MA. For more information, contact Adam Paicos at or 978-894-6969.

Massachusetts Sales Tax Holiday Weekend: August 8 & 9, 2026

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Mark your calendars: August 8 and 9, 2026 are this year’s Massachusetts Sales Tax Holiday weekend. During these two days, the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax will be suspended on most retail purchases of $2,500 or less – both in-store and online – made within the Commonwealth.

The following is for informational purposes only. For specific tax guidance, please consult a licensed tax professional or contact the Massachusetts Department of Revenue.

What Is Eligible?

The sales tax holiday exemption applies to most retail items purchased for personal use by individuals, with a per-item price of $2,500 or less. This includes both in-store purchases and online orders placed and paid for during Eastern Daylight Time on August 8 or 9 – even if delivery occurs after the holiday weekend.

Items that do NOT qualify for the exemption include:

  • Meals
  • Motor vehicles
  • Motorboats
  • Telecommunications services
  • Gas, steam, and electricity
  • Tobacco products
  • Marijuana or marijuana products
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Any single item priced above $2,500

Additional rules to be aware of:

  • Multiple items: If each individual item is priced at $2,500 or less, a customer may purchase as many items as they wish tax-free – even if the combined total exceeds $2,500. The $2,500 threshold applies per item, not per transaction.
  • Items over $2,500: If a single item exceeds $2,500, the entire purchase price – not just the amount above the threshold – is subject to sales tax.
  • Clothing: Clothing items priced at $2,500 or less are fully exempt during the holiday. Items priced above $2,500 are taxed on the full amount above $175.
  • Rentals: Qualifying items rented for up to 30 days are eligible, provided the rental is paid in full during the holiday weekend. Motor vehicles and motorboats do not qualify.
  • Layaway: Layaway sales do not qualify for the exemption.
  • Pre-holiday purchases: Customers cannot cancel and re-book prior purchases to take advantage of the holiday. Items deposited on, prepaid for, or otherwise committed to prior to August 8 are not eligible.
  • Business purchases: The exemption applies only to items purchased for personal use. Purchases made by corporations, other businesses, or individuals for business use remain taxable.

What Businesses Need to Know

All retail businesses in Massachusetts that sell taxable goods and are open on August 8 and/or 9 are required to participate in the Sales Tax Holiday. This is not optional.

Steps to take before the weekend:

  • Update your point-of-sale system: Confirm that your POS or e-commerce platform can be configured to correctly apply the exemption on August 8 and 9. Test it before the weekend to avoid errors at checkout.
  • Train your staff: Make sure employees who handle transactions understand the rules – particularly the per-item $2,500 threshold and which categories remain taxable.
  • Review the DOR FAQs: The Massachusetts Department of Revenue has published detailed guidance on the holiday. This is particularly useful for edge cases involving clothing, rentals, and online orders.
  • Plan your promotions early: Many retailers use this weekend as an opportunity to drive additional traffic with sales events. Get marketing materials and social media posts prepared well ahead of August 8.
  • Watch for errors: If your business accidentally collects sales tax on an eligible item, that tax must still be remitted to the DOR. If a customer requests a refund of tax collected in error, you are required to refund them – and may then file an amended return to recover those amounts.

Reporting exempt sales: On your August Sales and Use Tax Return, report the sales amount of items not charged tax during the holiday on Line 2, “Exempt Sales.”

After the Holiday Weekend

  • Returns and exchanges: No sales tax is due on exchanges made after the holiday on items originally purchased during the holiday weekend. Customers will not be subject to tax retroactively.
  • Customer refunds for tax charged in error: If a customer was incorrectly charged sales tax on an eligible purchase, your business is responsible for issuing that refund upon request with proof of purchase.

Resources & More Information

La Cámara de Comercio del Centro Norte de Massachusetts celebrará logros en su 42ª Reunión y Almuerzo Anual de Negocios

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Governor Maura Healey to Deliver Keynote Address

The 42nd Annual Business Meeting and Luncheon for the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Great Wolf Lodge, 150 Great Wolf Drive, Fitchburg.

As the region’s cornerstone annual event, the Chamber’s Annual Business Meeting brings together hundreds of business and community leaders from across North Central Massachusetts to honor the people and accomplishments that are moving North Central Massachusetts forward.  In addition to the Chamber’s annual recognition awards and commencement for the Community Leadership Institute Class of 2026, the event will also feature a tabletop Business Expo to showcase local businesses.  The expo will provide exhibitors with a unique opportunity to reach business and community leaders from throughout North Central Massachusetts attending the event.   The Business Expo will begin at 10:30 a.m.; the Annual Meeting and Luncheon will run from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; and the Business Expo will close out the day from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m.

The Chamber’s Annual Meeting celebrates businesses and leaders working together to ensure a prosperous future for North Central Massachusetts, and is funded by the generous support of businesses and organizations who are committed to that goal, including:

Annual Meeting Sponsor: Fidelity Bank

Business Expo Sponsors: Fitchburg State University and Workers Credit Union

Supporting Sponsors: Great Wolf Lodge; Guild of St. Agnes of Worcester, Inc., Mount Wachusett Community College; Rocheleau Tool & Die; and Rockland Trust

Media Sponsor: FATV

This year’s keynote speaker is Governor Maura Healey, the 73rd Governor of Massachusetts. First elected in 2022, Governor Healey made history as the first woman elected Governor in Massachusetts history and the first openly lesbian Governor elected in the United States.  Prior to serving as Governor, she served two terms as Massachusetts Attorney General.  Since taking office, Governor Healey has focused on lowering the cost of health care, housing and energy, creating jobs, and growing Massachusetts’ economic leadership in cutting-edge sectors like life sciences, climatetech, advanced manufacturing and applied AI.  She will speak to the strength of Massachusetts’ economy, especially in the North Central region, and the urgency behind her efforts related to affordability and business growth.

Registrations for the Annual Business Meeting and Luncheon are being accepted through June 10. The cost is $65 per person for members and $80 per person for non-members and includes lunch.  Reservations are required.  Supporting sponsorships, expo tables and tables of ten are also available.  For more information about the event, contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600, ext. 222 or ext. 235, or via email at .

To register or learn more.

 

Ya se aceptan solicitudes para la Clase de 2027 del Instituto de Liderazgo Comunitario

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North Central Mass.—Applications for the Instituto de Liderazgo Comunitario (CLI) Class of 2027 are now being accepted through Saturday, August 15, 2026.

Organized by the Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts, CLI is the premier community leadership program in North Central Massachusetts. Since 1988, the program has helped to shape over 350 community leaders with immersive educational experiences and engagements.

Starting during the Fall of each year, participants gather monthly for day-long, community educational sessions focused on topics including Personal Leadership; Non-Profit Governance/Volunteerism; Education; Media and Crisis Communications; Healthcare; Law and Justice; Legislation/Public Policy; Arts and Culture; and Economic Development. In addition, the class will break into smaller groups during the year to identify, manage and execute community service projects. The experience culminates with a commencement ceremony at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Business Expo where the class and their service projects are recognized.

Participants are typically nominated and sponsored by their employer. Those who are self-employed may also self-nominate to participate. Successful candidates must demonstrate motivation and potential to lead within their business or community; be considered high performers in their organization and on a leadership track; seek to understand issues facing North Central Massachusetts; be committed to the success of his or her sector and community; be curious and interested in developing new relationships; want to enhance their network of professionals; and be open to challenging their own point of view.

Tuition is $2,050 and includes all program materials and lunches. CLI participants will also receive season tickets to the Chamber’s Good Morning North Central executive breakfast series and other Chamber events for additional educational opportunities. A limited number of half-tuition scholarships are available. Applicants seeking scholarships for the CLI program must provide a letter of request to be considered for one of the scholarships. Those who commit to CLI must fully participate in all sessions, and nominating employers must commit to support their candidate’s participation.

To learn more and apply, visit Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts/CLI.  Applications for CLI will be reviewed by the CLI Steering Committee and applicants notified no later than September 25, 2026.

For questions or more information, contact Jessica Yakusik at 978.353.7600 ext. 222 or via email at .

Impulsando el Crecimiento a Través de Inversiones, Apoyo y Liderazgo Regional

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Behind every strong local economy are the tools, resources, and partnerships that help businesses grow and that’s exactly where our work continues to make an impact.

Expanding Access to Small Business Funding

Through the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), we’re helping entrepreneurs access the capital they need to succeed, especially those who may not qualify for traditional financing.

Right now, the NCMDC manages 90 active loans totaling over $3.3 million, representing a significant investment in our local business community. Since October 2025 alone, we’ve closed 5 new loans totaling more than $280,000, supporting projects that have helped create or retain 49 jobs across the region.

These investments go even further by leveraging additional private funding, amplifying the impact of every dollar. And with more than $1.4 million currently in the pipeline, we’re seeing strong momentum continue into the year ahead.

Providing Hands-On Business Support

Access to funding is just one piece of the puzzle. Our economic development team also works directly with businesses to help them grow and succeed.

In just the first quarter of the fiscal year, we’ve delivered over 400 hours of technical assistance to local entrepreneurs, from startups to established companies looking to scale. This includes support with loan preparation, marketing strategies, and connecting businesses with the right partners and resources.

By combining direct support with a strong network of resource partners, we’re helping create long-term, sustainable growth across our region.

Launching a New Era for Tourism

We also marked a major milestone this year with the launch of North Central Massachusetts’ first Tourism Destination Marketing District on January 1, 2026.

This new, business-led initiative gives participating hotels a stronger voice in how tourism marketing funds are used, creating a more sustainable and locally driven approach to attracting visitors. While funding will begin rolling out later this spring, planning is already well underway.

This model not only strengthens our tourism strategy but also positions the region to compete more effectively for visitor spending, bringing new energy and economic activity to our communities.

Fortaleciendo el Norte Central de Massachusetts a través del turismo

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This spring marks a strong return to momentum for Visit North Central Massachusetts (VNCM), the Chamber’s destination marketing arm, as we continue working to showcase everything our region has to offer.

Building Momentum for the Season Ahead

After a delayed start to the fiscal year due to state contract timing, our team hit the ground running in December, launching winter and spring marketing efforts designed to regain momentum and position the region for a successful tourism season.

Our strategy remains focused on highlighting North Central Massachusetts as an accessible, high-value New England destination. Campaigns centered around messages like “Everything You Love About New England… A Lot Closer to Home” y “Drive to, not through, North Central MA” continue to reinforce that our region is a destination worth exploring, not just passing through.

With strong media partnerships and renewed advertising efforts now underway, we’re building visibility at a critical time as we head into spring and summer.

Supporting Local Businesses Through Tourism

Tourism plays a key role in strengthening our communities, by bringing visitors to local shops, restaurants, attractions, and events that make our region unique.

While early winter performance reflected the impact of delayed funding, severe weather, and broader travel trends, our website and digital platforms continue to serve as important tools for connecting visitors with local experiences. From seasonal guides to an up-to-date events calendar, we’re helping showcase the people, places, and businesses that define North Central Massachusetts.

At the same time, our social media presence continues to grow, with a highly engaged audience of more than 49,000 followers across platforms. Even during slower periods, organic content highlighting local businesses, events, and experiences has remained strong keeping our communities front and center.

Mirando hacia adelante

As marketing campaigns ramp up this spring, we expect to see continued growth in visibility, engagement, and visitation. More importantly, that growth translates into real impacts supporting small businesses, driving foot traffic, and bringing new energy into our downtowns and communities.

Because at the end of the day, tourism isn’t just about attracting visitors, it’s about creating vibrant places where people want to explore, connect, and come back to again and again.

Abogando por comunidades sólidas y una economía local próspera

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Our advocacy work is rooted in something simple but powerful; building strong communities by supporting the businesses, policies, and partnerships that help our region thrive.

From Local Conversations to Regional Impact

We kicked off the year by connecting with newly elected leaders in Fitchburg and Leominster, an important step in building relationships that ensure the Chamber and our members are part of the conversation from the start. These early connections help position us as a trusted resource and partner as communities plan for the future.
That work continues on the ground every day. We stay actively engaged by attending city council meetings, monitoring local issues, and providing input on key decisions that impact both businesses and residents. Recent conversations around local tax policies in Clinton and Lancaster are a good example, while technical on the surface, these decisions play a major role in long-term community stability. Supporting balanced, sustainable approaches helps create an environment where businesses can grow, invest, and remain rooted in the region.
At the same time, we’re continuing to advocate for restoring tourism funding in Leominster. Tourism plays an important role in supporting small businesses, bringing energy to downtowns, and driving local economic activity, benefiting the broader community in the process.

Bringing Our Region’s Voice to Beacon Hill

Our advocacy efforts extend beyond the local level as we work closely with state leaders on issues that matter to North Central Massachusetts.
A key priority continues to be regional economic development funding, which supports small business lending, workforce development programs, and technical assistance across the region. These resources are essential to helping businesses start, grow, and succeed, while also strengthening the overall economic health of our communities.
We’re also advocating for updates to the state’s Tourism Trust Fund to ensure it keeps pace with today’s economy and continues to support effective destination marketing. Investments like these help bring visitors to the region, supporting local businesses and creating a ripple effect across the economy.
In addition, we collaborate with coalitions across the state to weigh in on broader policy issues that impact businesses and communities alike. Whether it’s tourism investment, economic development, or emerging legislation, our goal is to help shape solutions that balance growth, sustainability, and long-term success.

Fortaleciendo Conexiones y Celebrando el Éxito en el Norte Central de Massachusetts

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At the Chamber, we’re focused on more than just supporting businesses, we’re building connections, creating opportunities, and celebrating the people and organizations that make our region thrive.

Making Connections More Accessible

Our Meet & Greets initiative continues to grow as a simple but impactful way for local businesses to connect. These smaller, more relaxed gatherings give members the chance to network with peers, meet Chamber staff, and stay up to date on programs and resources, all in a more approachable setting than our larger events.

We’ve intentionally hosted these events in communities outside our larger cities to make participation easier across the region. This past fall, Meet & Greets were held at Templewood Golf Course in Phillipston, Settlers Green in Lunenburg, and Ellinwood Country Club in Athol.

In January, we brought the event to downtown Athol in partnership with Athol Credit Union and the Polus Center, with a focus on local revitalization efforts. It was a great opportunity to connect businesses, community leaders, and local officials around shared goals.

Interested in hosting a future Meet & Greet? We’d love to hear from you.

Recognizing the People Behind the Progress

In 2025, we launched our Member Recognition Series as part of the Good Morning North Central breakfast program and it’s quickly become a favorite.

The series highlights businesses and organizations making a real impact, from milestone anniversaries to major community projects. So far, we’ve celebrated companies like Catania Oils (125 years), Fitchburg Art Museum (100 years), and Foster-Healey Real Estate (100 years), along with many others.

We’ve also presented Community Enhancement Awards to standout projects, including NewVue Communities’ , Fitchburg Arts Community, The Tocci Group’s redevelopment of the Foster-Healey Building, and Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical High School’s MVP Academy.

With new honorees featured at each breakfast, this program continues to spotlight the innovation, dedication, and growth happening across North Central Massachusetts.

Nominations are open year-round so if you know a business or organization making a difference, be sure to submit them!

Chamber Welcomes New Members at Orientation

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Business owners and professionals are invited to discover the power of Chamber membership at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s new member orientation on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Chamber’s main office, 860 South Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420.

Attendees will gain access to the Chamber’s full range of programs and resources, including strategic networking opportunities, influential government affairs programs, professional development seminars and tools, cost-effective advertising platforms, health insurance options and other specialized support.  The orientation is designed for new members, but is equally valuable for current members who want to get a refresher on their membership, or prospective members exploring Chamber opportunities. Following the orientation, attendees are encouraged to stay and connect informally with fellow new members. Light refreshments will be provided.

“Esta es una gran oportunidad para miembros y no miembros de aprender sobre la naturaleza dinámica de la Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts”, dijo Roy Nascimento, presidente y director ejecutivo. “Los asistentes aprenderán sobre el importante trabajo que realizamos para hacer avanzar la región, así como los tremendos recursos que ofrecemos para empresas de todos los tamaños e industrias”.”

Secure your spot at this complimentary member orientation by registering online at www.northcentralmass.com. Space is limited. For additional information, contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600 ext. 222 or ext. 235.

Can’t make the event?  Schedule a personalized Chamber introduction with Patrick O’Hara, Manager of Membership Recruitment & Engagement, at 978.353.7600 ext. 235 or to discover how Chamber membership can benefit your business.

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to host 3rd Annual Small Business Showcase and Entrepreneur Awards Reception

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El Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts and the Corporación de Desarrollo del Norte Central de Massachusetts will host the 3rd Annual Small Business Showcase & Entrepreneur Awards Reception on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Leominster. The evening will spotlight the hard work, creativity, and successes that drive our regional economy. With more than two dozen small businesses and resource providers exhibiting, the showcase offers an exceptional opportunity for meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, startup businesses, small business owners, and community partners.

Guests will enjoy an evening of networking, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar, while exploring exhibits from local small businesses showcasing their products and services. The highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Entrepreneur Awards, recognizing individuals, startup businesses, and established small businesses that have demonstrated exceptional vision, resilience, and impact within our communities. Tatra Lappas will serve as emcee for the evening.

Sponsors include Premier and Award Recipient Sponsor Fitchburg State University; Corporate Sponsors Fidelity Bank and Workers Credit Union; Partner Sponsors Bay State Savings Bank, Main Street Bank and TD Bank; and Bag Sponsor Beacon Bank. Resource partners include MassDevelopment, NewVue Communities, Wachusett Business Incubator, Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Massachusetts Office of Business Development, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

The event is open to the general public and all businesses and entrepreneurs in the region, including those just starting out. Chamber members holding Business After Hours season tickets may use them for this event. Tickets are just $15 per person. Pre-registration is required. For more information about the event or to register online, please visit northcentralmass.com or contact Valerie Bruno at 978.353.7600, ext. 235, or at . Sponsorship and exhibitor table opportunities are also still available.

“The Small Business Showcase is a great opportunity for anyone in our community to meet and support the local entrepreneurs and small businesses that are driving our regional economy. From early-stage startups to established businesses, and the resource partners that help them succeed, it’s all under one roof for one evening, and everyone is welcome.” said Valerie Bruno, programs and events manager, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce.