Region leads the way with business growth but the Chancellor must deliver a growth-focused Budget

Our SMEs need the Government’s backing to continue to survive and thrive.

Our annual progress report on the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Kent and Medway has been praised by The Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern. It highlights the significant achievements since the LSIP was launched two years ago and how business has played a greater part in shaping the area’s skills agenda. Kent and Medway is one of the most successful regions in the UK.

In our Big Interview, Robin Sumner, Managing Director of marketing firm, Romax, talks about the power of marketing to establish your brand and drive sales. He talks about building a business over the past 30 years to a team of 32 staff and how he has evolved to keep up with technology and expanded to four brands. It is always fascinating to hear members’ in-depth stories of how they set up, the challenges they have overcome and their plans for growth.

We are proud to be introducing a new carnet system aimed at reinvigorating Kent exports. This initiative is set to streamline the export process for businesses in Kent, making it easier for them to expand into international markets. Flowbird, a Patron of Kent Invicta Chamber, is playing a crucial role in the initiative.

We were delighted that all five of our nominated Kent Chamber of Commerce members were shortlisted and two have been chosen as Regional Winners in the British Chambers of Commerce Chamber Business Awards 2024. Congratulations to Social Enterprise Kent for being announced the Regional Winner for the Local Economy of the Future - Business of the Year Award and to Bedfont Scientific for winning the Digital

Revolution – Business of the Year Award. Congratulations to Walker Construction, AML Consulting (Global) Ltd and Frasers of Egerton for being shortlisted in their categories.

The countdown is on for Kent Invicta Chamber Business Awards 2024 on Thursday, 21st November at Westenhanger Castle. This is the highlight of the Chamber events calendar where we can celebrate our business community’s wins together. A huge thank you to all our sponsors and good luck to all the nominees.

Thank you for your support and I look forward to seeing you all very soon.

Tudor Price Chief Executive, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce