Why your voice matters: the importance of taking part in the Q3 Quarterly Economic Survey
As we approach the third quarter of 2024, businesses across the South West are navigating a landscape marked by change, uncertainty, and opportunity. The recent shift to a Labour government brings new policies, priorities, and challenges for the business community. It is more crucial than ever that your voice is heard.
At Business West, we believe that the insights, experiences, and perspectives of businesses like yours are vital in shaping the economic policies that will affect us all. That’s why we’re calling on you to participate in the Q3 Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). This is your opportunity to influence the decisions that impact your business, your community, and the broader economy.
What is the Quarterly Economic Survey?
For those unfamiliar, the QES is the largest and most reliable economic survey in the UK, conducted by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) in collaboration with local Chambers like Business West. Every quarter, businesses from all sectors are invited to share their views on a range of economic indicators, including sales, exports, investment, and employment. This quarter, the survey will also include questions about sustainability and how it is affecting your business.
The data collected from the QES is used to inform policy decisions at the highest levels of government. In fact, Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, has described the QES data as the most reliable indicator of the UK economy that he receives. Your participation doesn’t just provide data; it provides a foundation for advocacy and action that can lead to meaningful change.
Why Should You Participate in the Q3 Survey?
Influence Policy and Decision-Making
The shift to a new government means that the economic policies and regulations affecting your business may change. By taking part in the QES, you have the chance to inform these changes. The data we gather will be used to lobby on behalf of businesses in the South West, ensuring that your concerns and priorities are heard by those in power.
Whether it’s addressing the challenges posed by inflation, navigating the complexities of Brexit, or adapting to new sustainability mandates, your input can make a real difference. The more businesses that take part, the more robust our data will be, and the stronger our case when we represent your interests.
Receive Valuable Insights
All participants in the Q3 survey will receive a copy of the final report, which provides a comprehensive overview of the economic landscape in the South West. This report is not just a snapshot of the current business environment, it’s a tool that can help you benchmark your performance, identify trends, and make informed decisions for the future.
The insights you gain from the report could be the key to navigating the challenges ahead, whether you’re a small business looking to grow or a larger company seeking to consolidate your position in the market.
Contribute to a Collective Effort
There’s a theme that runs through every successful business community: collaboration. The QES is a prime example of how collective effort can lead to collective benefit. By taking part in the survey, you’re joining a community of businesses that are working together to create a better economic environment for everyone.
This quarter’s survey is particularly significant. As the first QES under the new Labour government, the data we collect will be closely watched by policymakers and economic analysts. Your participation will not only help to paint a clear picture of the current economic climate but also to shape the narrative around the challenges and opportunities facing businesses today.
How to Participate
We’ve made it as easy as possible for you to take part in the Q3 QES. The survey takes no more than 5-10 minutes to complete, and your responses are confidential. All you need to do is click the link below:
The deadline for completing the survey is the 16th of September, so please don’t delay. Your input is invaluable, and the time you invest in completing the survey will pay dividends not just for your business, but for the entire business community in the South West.
Success Stories: How Past Surveys Have Made a Difference
You might be wondering, “Does my participation really make a difference?” The answer is a resounding yes. In previous surveys, the data provided by businesses like yours has led to tangible outcomes. For example, the insights gathered from our surveys have been instrumental in shaping regional investment strategies, influencing tax policies, and securing funding for local infrastructure projects.
These successes are only possible because businesses like yours took the time to share their experiences and perspectives. By taking part in the Q3 survey, you can contribute to more successes in the future.
You Can’t Make Change Happen If You Don’t Participate
At Business West, we’re committed to supporting the businesses that make the South West such a vibrant and dynamic place to live and work. But we can’t do it alone. We need your help to ensure that the voice of the business community is heard loud and clear in the corridors of power.
Your participation in the Q3 Quarterly Economic Survey is more than just a tick-box exercise—it’s a powerful way to influence the future of our region’s economy. By taking just a few minutes to complete the survey, you’re contributing to a collective effort that can lead to real change.
So, what are you waiting for? Click the link below, share your insights, and help us build a stronger, more resilient economy for the South West. Together, we can make a difference.