Chancellor Sets Out Progress But Recognises Challenge

29th September 2025

Responding to the Chancellor’s speech at the Labour Party Conference, Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The Chancellor was right to highlight the progress made on infrastructure, overseas investment and trade in recent months. These are key foundations for future economic growth, and we...

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Business Welcomes Youth Guarantee Ambition

29th September 2025

Reacting to the Chancellor’s plans for a Youth Guarantee, Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: “Business will welcome the Chancellor’s ambition to get more young people into work. The BCC has been calling for this as a matter of urgency. “A well delivered Youth Guarantee can help...

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Over 100 Exhibitors Confirmed for the Festival of Business

26th September 2025

The Essex Chambers of Commerce is extremely proud to announce all the stands for this year’s premier business event, the Festival of Business, have completely sold out and the full exhibitor list has been revealed. On Wednesday 5 November, the Summer Marque at Chelmsford City Racecourse will be bursting...

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Sticky Inflation Keeps Rates on Hold

18th September 2025

Responding to the latest interest rate decision by the Bank of England, David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Today’s decision to hold interest rates at 4% was widely expected, especially after yesterday’s figures confirmed that inflation remains stubbornly high. “A further hold aligns...

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Croissants, Councils & Connections in Colchester

18th September 2025

It was a bright and early start as we welcomed attendees to enjoy a wonderful breakfast networking event at the newly refurbished Delta Hotel Colchester. Guests were treated to a delicious breakfast spread of fresh pastries, eggs benedict, and breakfast burritos all in the sophisticated surroundings of the Balkern...

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New Non-Executive Director Appointed To BCC Board

18th September 2025

The BCC is pleased to announce that Michael Hayman MBE DL, has been appointed to its board as an independent member.  Michael, who is currently the UK Chair for strategic communications consultancy Bully Pulpit International, was chosen after an extensive selection process carried out by the Nominations Committee.  He...

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Cost Pressures Continue to Hit Labour Market

16th September 2025

Responding to the latest labour market data published by the ONS this morning, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The ongoing impact of business cost pressures, most notably from the national insurance hike, continues to hit the labour market. “Unemployment remains...

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UK Trade Rebounds In July 

12th September 2025

Commenting on the latest ONS trade data, BCC Head of Trade Policy, William Bain, said:  “The first month of reduced automotive tariffs has had a positive effect on US exports alongside more certainty on the outlook for other manufactured goods sectors. “But far more work is needed on US...

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Subdued Summer as Business Costs Hit

12th September 2025

Responding to the latest GDP data published by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Today’s data shows the UK economy had a subdued summer, with limited growth in the three months to July, and 0% in the month alone. “The...

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An Evening of Networking in Style with Jaguar Land Rover Southend

05th September 2025

We were delighted to host a fantastic evening of networking surrounded by luxury, high-performance vehicles at our recent event with Group 1 Jaguar Land Rover Southend. As a Chamber of Commerce, one of our greatest privileges is to showcase our members, and this gathering was a perfect example of...

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