BCC press release: inflation warning lights flashing
Reacting to the latest inflation data published by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
Showing results 136–144 of 519
Reacting to the latest inflation data published by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
Almost 60% of UK employers now offer remote work opportunities, with many more embracing hybrid work environments. While this comes with plenty of perks, from cost savings to increased productivity, it also means your team might not get together so often. In business, though, a strong connection between employees is vital for seamless collaboration.
Commenting on the latest ONS trade data, BCC Head of Trade Policy, William Bain, said: “Tariff effects are clearly being felt by companies exporting to the US. Total goods exports across the Atlantic for Q2 2025 were 13.5% lower than a year ago. “But the UK’s performance is not all bleak, with strong services exports across the second quarter. “Overall, goods exports showed a Jekyll and Hyde character, with non-EU goods exports badly hit, while goods exports to the EU (nearly half of the UK’s total goods exports) were higher across the quarter. “This was the first full quarter of the ‘reciprocal’ US tariffs, which add an extra 10% to most UK sectors, from food and drink to chemicals. The effect of these higher costs is becoming clear, with the lowest levels of goods exports to the US for 3 years. “Implementation of the UK’s trade deal with the US in full is now needed to improve prospects, particularly for steel and aluminium goods. “The agreement should be a platform to discuss further tariff reform with the US, especially in goods sectors where there is little competition on production. “We also need Ministers to focus on implementing those areas of the Trade Strategy which can boost goods export sales and growth at pace, while sustaining the rate of progress in services trade.”
Wiltshire-based ALPS Ecoscience is redefining performance in the biogas sector, achieving a 30% uplift in biomethane production compared to industry standards.
Responding to the latest interest rate decision by the Bank of England, David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
In an era of rapid urban transformation and climate urgency, the built environment has become a focal point for regional prosperity. The decisions made today regarding infrastructure projects, transport networks, and sustainability initiatives will have lasting consequences for everyone who lives and works in the region. To address this, Business West hosts the Planning, Transport and Climate Change Group (PTCC), a strategic forum that brings together senior representatives from both the private and public sectors.
Our Chamber membership team plays a vital role in supporting businesses of all shapes and sizes across the region. From helping members connect and grow, to ensuring they get the most out of their benefits, the team is at the heart of everything we do.
The latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) from Business West reveals a challenging and uncertain economic landscape for businesses across the South West. Covering the second quarter of 2025, the findings highlight persistent recruitment difficulties, deteriorating trading conditions, and a cautious outlook on investment and profitability.
Responding to the launch of the Government’s Small Business Plan, Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the BCC, said: