Economy Grows but Chill of Uncertainty Remains

13th February 2025

Responding to the latest GDP data released by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Confirmation that the economy grew slightly in Q4 is a small bit of relief for businesses in challenging times. However, regardless of the headline data, it’s...

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Essex drivers to see faster car journeys, as Government approves Fairglen Interchange upgrades

12th February 2025

Drivers in Essex will see faster journeys, as the Government gives £15m for A127/A130 Fairglen Interchange upgrades. As well as shorter car journeys, the upgrades will see improved safety, with the road currently seeing a higher than average number of collisions due to incorrect lane use. The scheme will...

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Cool Heads Needed As Manufacturing Exporters Fear Tariff Impact

12th February 2025

New research by the BCC’s Insights Unit has uncovered the extent to which firms are worried about the impact of US tariffs on their operations. The survey of more than 1,200 firms, of which over 260 were manufacturing exporters, was carried out between Monday 20 January and Friday 7...

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10,000 more apprentices as Government slashes red tape to boost growth

11th February 2025

Shorter and flexible apprenticeships and new English and maths requirements to boost skills and support employers.  Up to 10,000 more apprentices will be able to qualify per year as the government cuts red tape to boost economic growth by giving employers more flexibility over maths and English requirements. Rules...

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Business Key To Government Spending Plans

11th February 2025

The BCC is urging Government to help firms grow as it considers its future spending plans. The business group’s submission to His Majesty’s Treasury for the Comprehensive Spending Review contains 49 recommendations on ways to grow the economy that the Government should support. The top asks include:       Get Britain...

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Rate Cut Eases Some Pressure Points 

06th February 2025

Reacting to the latest interest rate decision, David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Given the raft of cost pressures and global economic uncertainties businesses are facing, today’s interest rate cut provides a measure of relief for SMEs. “Since the Autumn Budget our research...

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ESSEX CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE WELCOMES LOWER THAMES CROSSING MILESTONE

05th February 2025

In her speech on economic growth on 29 January the Chancellor signalled the government’s commitment to delivering a new Lower Thames Crossing. In response, Denise Rossiter, CEO of the Essex Chambers said: “We warmly welcome the latest step on the long road towards delivering a new river crossing to...

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Festival of Business Returns for Fourth Year to Showcase Essex’s Thriving Business Community

05th February 2025

The highly anticipated Festival of Business is set to return for its fourth year, bringing together businesses from across Essex for a day of networking, collaboration, and celebration. Taking place on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, from 10.00am to 3.00pm at Chelmsford City Racecourse, the flagship event of Essex Chambers...

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Firms Face Increasing Cyber Security Risk

05th February 2025

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is warning that businesses face increased cyber security risks without stronger engagement with government. Among the recommendations in a new report, the BCC is calling for ministers to: The report has been produced by the BCC’s Digital Revolution Challenge Group, drawing on expertise...

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Precision, Passion and Partnership: A Remarkable Evening at Rega Research.

31st January 2025

Our 2025 events programme started with a pitch perfect evening at Rega Research Ltd’s Southend based factory. It was a delight to welcome our attendees for a behind-the-scenes look at the world-renowned manufacturer of exquisite quality high-fidelity audio systems. The company, which has been operating for over 50 years,...

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