BCC Release: Apprenticeship System Reform Must Go Further
A new report from the British Chambers of Commerce is calling for the government to reform the apprenticeship system to make it fit for the 21st Century.
Showing results 46–54 of 520
A new report from the British Chambers of Commerce is calling for the government to reform the apprenticeship system to make it fit for the 21st Century.
Running a small business is demanding. Most days, there’s an exhausting to-do list of tasks to get through. For understandable reasons, you focus on your cash flow, customers and staff, but your digital technology could quietly be costing you a lot of wasted time and money. So, how do you carry out a reliable tech health check?
From global marketing agency to AI pioneer, Bournemouth‑based Crowd Group is scaling with Innovate UK Business Growth support—delivered by Business West in the South West.
In new survey data, the percentage of businesses reporting increased export orders has fallen to 21% in Q4 2025, compared with 31% in Q2 2018 A further 50% report no change, while 28% report a decrease Smaller and medium sized businesses have been hit much harder than larger firms, with just 19% of SMEs reporting increased orders, compared with 39% of firms with more than 250 employees
UK businesses of all sizes work with consultants, who can advise on a wide range of topics and challenges. They can provide objective views and specialised expertise that businesses lack in-house and their influence can be transformative. Find out how to maximise your benefits when using a consultant.
We were pleased to represent our region at last week’s Growing Together Alliance's House of Commons reception, hosted by Business South and Deloitte.
The BCC warns that minor business rates adjustments fall far short of what firms need. With rising costs and stalled investment, businesses are calling for deeper reform to create a fairer, more supportive system that strengthens growth and protects high‑street and commercial viability.
As part of International Day of Education (23rd January), we’re proud to feature Hartpury University and Hartpury College as our Chamber Member of the Month, recognising their commitment to education, skills development and strong links with industry.
The DBT's Digital Adoption: Rapid Evidence Review (2024) found using cloud computing, CRM, ERP or other software can boost SME productivity by 7%–18% per technology. That’s an incredible increase, one that's affordable and achievable. So, why are so many small firms failing to make the most of digital technology?