Q&A with Business West’s New Board Director: Professor Sir Steve West

Professor Sir Steve West CBE has joined Business West as a Non Executive Board Director. Sir Steve is Chief Executive Officer of the University of the West of England, Bristol (UWE Bristol), and was awarded a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2023 for services to Health, Business and Education. His appointment as Board Director marks a return to the Business West fold, having previously served as President of the Bristol Chamber and Initiative eight years ago. Here, he answers our questions…

Latest BCC updates on US Tariffs

Latest updates from British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) on US Tariffs. Business West is one of the largest Chambers of Commerce in the UK, and we are working closely with the BCC on this. Tariffs Loom Large As Growth Forecasts Cut (22 April 2025) Responding to the latest IMF forecasts for the UK and Global economies, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The downgrades for both the UK and global economy should come as no surprise to anyone. Businesses are under no illusion that this year will be tough, and sustained growth is likely to be elusive. “Firms were already facing into a wall of higher domestic costs, including the national insurance rise, before the US unleashed its explosive tariff proposals. “But there is strong support for the Government’s approach to continue negotiation and not immediately retaliate. The US has been open to talks and the signals that a deal can be reached are promising. “Firms also don’t want to have all their eggs in one basket and are keen to see closer trading relationships with the EU and the Indo-Pacific region. “There is no denying the outlook remains clouded with uncertainty. As retaliatory moves by other countries escalate, the prospects of a global trade war and wider economic fallout are increasing. “But talk of recession remains premature, it is by no means certain. The government must do all it can to boost business confidence by providing practical support around infrastructure projects, reforming business rates and cutting red tape in the right areas. “It must also stick firmly to its pledge of no further tax rises for business in the autumn budget and instead consider all its fiscal options.” More information on the IMF forecasts

How can businesses connect with the future workforce?

One key way for businesses to grow, bring in fresh ideas, keep up to date with the latest training and invest in future talent is through hiring an apprentice, taking on a T-Level student or welcoming a work placement into the organisation.

Q&A with Independent West of England Mayoral Combined Authority Metro Mayor candidate Ian Scott

What do you think a Metro Mayor’s role should be? It is to bring the West of England together to present clear local visions to local people, the Government and International Investors. It can do this by listening to local residents, Councils, businesses, public sector bodies and voluntary groups to come up with proposals that the majority of West of England Combined Authority (WECA) members can vote and agree on.

BCC Press Release: Businesses eager for tariff advice

More than 650 businesses have attended a webinar held by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) to get more detail on US tariffs.

Navigating skills and workforce development with Business West

Whether you're looking to upskill your existing staff, recruit new people with the right skills and knowledge, create a workforce development plan or find out more about apprenticeships, Business West can help your business to navigate the skills landscape.

Customs Update: Spring 2025 Edition

ENS For EU Imports Since 31st January, freight coming to the UK from the EU has been subject to Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) for safety and security. These are datasets of information required by HMRC before the goods arrive at the UK border in addition to the full import declarations already required. The process is in place as the UK is a signatory to the WCO (World Customs Organisation) SAFE Framework of Standards, which aims to uphold modern supply chain security standards. The system that handles these declarations is called S&S GB. This system has no user interface, so traders need to purchase software compatible with it. The responsibility for completing the ENS declaration lies with the carrier/haulier; however, the importer can arrange for it to be completed themselves with the carrier’s agreement. At ChamberCustoms we have successfully been fulfilling this requirement for regular shipments from EU countries.

BCC Press Release: Extent of US tariff impact revealed 

Swindon Mindful Employer Network Event Recap: Managing Stress & Wellbeing

We were pleased to welcome attendees to our first Mindful Employer Network event this week - a collaboration between Swindon Borough Council, Business West, and Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind. With Mental Health Awareness Week approaching in May, the focus on workplace stress was particularly timely.