Confidence among firms has continued to weaken, with tax remaining the biggest concern, according to the UK’s largest business sentiment survey. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey also found more businesses now expect to raise prices in 2026. Less than half of responding firms (46%) are...
Read moreBusinesses to receive boost to investment as a new first-year allowance took effect on Thursday 1 January, as the government continues its drive to make Britain the best place to do business. First announced by the Chancellor at Budget 2025, the government is continuing to offer greater upfront tax...
Read moreA new survey by the BCC’s Insights Unit of 989 businesses (96% SMEs) shows EU trade is becoming increasingly difficult, and this year’s reset needs to continue at real pace in 2026 to deliver vital deals for businesses. The BCC has used the data to create a business manifesto for the EU Reset...
Read moreResponding to the latest Bank of England interest rate decision, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Today’s interest rate cut to 3.75%, is a much-needed Christmas gift for businesses across the UK. However, unwrapping growth remains a huge challenge. “With the economy flatlining, wage...
Read moreReacting to news that the Employment Rights Bill has received Royal Assent, Kate Shoesmith, Director of Policy at the BCC, said: “It has already been a long journey for the Employment Rights Bill to become law, but we still have a considerable distance to go on this odyssey. “Royal...
Read moreReacting to news of the UK rejoining Erasmus+, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said: “Businesses will be enthusiastic about the UK’s re-entry to the Erasmus+ programme from 2027. This will allow them to maximise its full benefits for training, apprenticeships, skills, further and higher education,...
Read moreReacting to the latest ONS inflation data published this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Businesses will be cheered by the larger than expected slowing of inflation in November to 3.2%, suggesting it is now past its peak. “With unemployment on the rise and wage...
Read moreReacting to the latest labour market data from the ONS published this morning, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The latest data paints a gloomy picture for jobs, opportunities and growth. It reflects what businesses tell us – they are less...
Read moreLocal rail operator c2c Railway Limited has announced the return of 12 and 10-car trains to platform 2 at Basildon station following an intensive programme to stabilise and replace a section of the embankment and platform. c2c has welcomed the return of 12 and 10-car trains to platform 2...
Read moreThe latest phase of a £30m investment in water supply and improving the quality of drinking water for people in Essex is taking shape. Essex & Suffolk water is carrying out upgrades at Layer Water Treatment Works (WTW) that will ensure a resilient supply of clean, clear and great...
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