“Because there is power in partnership. During the pandemic, the Government listened to businesses, stepped in, and gave vital support just when it was needed – this was a great example of our Network and Government working in partnership. And, of course, our discussions with Government continue. Ahead of the spring statement we urged the government to temporarily reverse their commitment to raise National Insurance Contributions and to support businesses with energy costs. “However, the Spring Statement was a missed opportunity. We saw some support for business, but the lack of a clear strategic direction meant it did not give clarity or confidence. This has to change and we are on limited time. The Government has until the autumn budget to reset, rethink and get their house in order.” The British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) Annual Global Conference 2022 took place on Thursday 30 June at the QEII Conference Centre, London. The British Chambers of Commerce Director General, Shevaun Haviland, welcomed delegates to the event and made the opening speech. Her opening included the following messages: “The diversity and vibrance of the economies of our regions and nations is something to behold. And across all of these communities, and in communities around the globe, are the Chambers of Commerce, using the power of partnership to support businesses to build connections, and create opportunities. “However, we all know that businesses are facing unprecedented challenges, exacerbated by the conflict in Europe, which follows a once in a lifetime pandemic that literally brought life as we know it to a halt. “Increasing cost of raw materials over last summer, supply chain and shipping issues, problems in recruiting people, and by this March spiralling energy prices. It really is the perfect storm of increasing costs, firmly putting the brakes on recovery. “But there is another side to this story that is often under-reported. When I speak to businesses I hear one thing – resilience. Business owners got through the pandemic using their ingenuity, taking tough decisions, and holding their nerve. “Now, again, in the face of difficult economic conditions, they are showing their entrepreneurial spirit - innovating, finding solutions, looking forward, and always holding on to an unfailing belief in their own business, even if they are losing faith in the environment around them. And to me that is inspiring. And that is what motivates me, and all of us across the Chamber Network, to keep supporting our businesses, to keep speaking to Government and to keep working together to create the conditions for these businesses – your businesses – to thrive. 10 connected
Through thought-provoking discussions, talks and peer-to-peer sessions, delegates explored and debated how we can individually and collectively rise to the challenges ahead, with a particular focus on: • PEOPLE - Developing talent now and for the future • PLANET - Boosting a green global economy • PROGRESS - Seizing new opportunities Away from the sessions there was also networking time for delegates to greet existing contacts and meet new ones; and we showcased our dynamic network of Chambers and strategic partners.
