The Chamber team spent Thursday (23 March) out of the office on a day of fun and team-building.
We started the day at Quasar Norwich by splitting into two equal teams and shooting lasers at one another. It was great fun, with the red team (Jason, Jack, Nova, Emily, Naomi, Tina and Julie) coming out victorious over the blue team (Caroline, Jake, Joe, Louise, Darcy, Philippa and Jenny) in both games.
Food was next on the agenda as the team arrived at Chamber member The Library Restaurant for a well-earned lunch.
The team finished the day with some puzzling solving in the History Mystery Escape Rooms (another Chamber member) at the Norwich Guildhall. Team A (Jack, Joe, Tina, Julie, Caroline, Louise and Jenny) completed both puzzles with time to spare earnig them a silver and a gold badge. Team ‘Chambe Detectives’ (Jason, Jake, Nova, Darcy, EMily, Naomi and Philippa) managed to come away with a silver badge after completing their second puzzle, but with over 5 minutes to spare!
Businesses across the Norfolk, particularly in rural areas, are still without reliable broadband connections, despite companies saying the availability of fully functional broadband is extremely important to their operations, according to the results of a survey released today (Monday) by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).
All Norfolk companies surveyed (100%) say a reliable broadband connection is important, (90% say extremely so), yet one in five (20%) suffer from unreliable connections (12% not very reliable; 8% not at all reliable).
The findings also show that firms in rural areas are at least twice as likely to have unreliable connections (30%) as those in towns (15%), inner cities (13%), and suburban areas (12%).
Smaller businesses are the most likely to suffer from unreliable broadband, with nearly a quarter (24%) of sole traders and 21% of micro-businesses reporting problems.
The survey suggests that more reliable connections would allow businesses to do more. Over half of businesses (54%) say if the reliability of their broadband connection was improved it would allow them to use more applications, particularly cloud-based services (24%), transfer of large files (16%), remote server access for employees (14%).
Nova Fairbank, Public Affairs Manager of Norfolk Chamber said:
“Norfolk’s business community report that our digital infrastructure is still not fit for purpose. Throughout the county, significant numbers of companies of every size and sector lack reliable internet connectivity – a basic requirement for businesses to operate efficiently in today’s world.
“Unreliable connections stunt productivity, causing needless delays, costs and frustration. While businesses across the county are affected, the BCC research shows that its rural areas and small businesses that are most likely to suffer. An unreliable connection acts as an obstacle to growth, and puts those firms most in need of support at a competitive disadvantage.”
Commenting on the national picture, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“We’ve been calling on both providers and on government for years to fund the necessary upgrades required to deliver superfast broadband to business communities. Regulators, too, must ensure that firms actually get the quality and speeds of connection they are promised. While we welcome recent ministerial announcements about investing in 5G technology and efforts to build a world-class digital infrastructure in the UK, there is still a long way to go in getting the basics right.
“The immediate focus must be on providing all companies with connections that are reliable and of sufficient speed, which would boost business confidence and encourage firms to maximise opportunities for growth, trade and investment.”
Described as a landmark agreement, the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is the first deal between the EU and a country in South East Asia.
Once it enters into force, the FTA will provide greater market access and will remove customs duties and other barriers to trade. Sectors anticipated to benefit particularly include pharmaceuticals, electronics, chemicals and food products.
Despite being concluded in October 2014, the FTA has not yet entered into force as, before it can do so, it must be ratified.
The ratification process has been delayed because the EU’s Court of Justice (CJEU) has been asked to decide on the areas of competence which apply to the European Commission and the EU Member States when it comes to making bilateral trade deals.
The Court’s opinion is expected in the first half of this year. In advance of the decision, both the EU and Singapore have reaffirmed their commitment to the deal.
On a recent visit to Singapore, EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström said that the FTA “will open doors and create opportunities for companies big and small, help to boost economic growth and investment, and create jobs”.
Noting that Singapore and the EU are longstanding partners with a shared belief in free and open trade within a rules-based global trading system, Trade Minister Lim Hng Kiang said that the new agreement will reinforce his country’s efforts to remain open and connected while strengthening its robust economic relations with the EU.
In 2016, the EU was Singapore’s second largest trading partner, accounting for 11% of its global trade. Singapore is the EU’s largest trading partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region.
The A47 Alliance are hosting an ‘Infrastructure and Economic Growth’ business breakfast, with the right honourable Mr John Hayes, Minister of State at the Department for Transport.
The A47 Alliance brings together stakeholders – including Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, the local enterprise partnerships, local authorities and other business representatives – along the entire length of the trunk road from Lowestoft to the A1 at Peterborough.
The Alliance was grateful to government for previously recognising the vital importance of the A47 in the trunk road programme from 2015 to 2020 (known as RIS1) as a nationally important strategic road, deserving of crucial funding to undertake key improvements along sections of the A47.
Moving towards announcements for the 2020 to 2025 programme (RIS2), we are inviting key businesses along the route in Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire to a business breakfast.
Jonathan Cage, President of the Norfolk Chamber confirmed his attendance at the breakfast and said:
“Norfolk Chamber and the A47 Alliance members want to hear first-hand business views on the A47 and how this relates to the successful economic growth in our region.”
Martin Wilby, the Chair of the A47 Alliance said:
“We will use this important opportunity to update Norfolk businesses on the RIS1 schemes’ progress and hear directly from businesses in the East on what essential infrastructure improvements they would like to see happen to secure the future success of their businesses.”
The A47 Alliance’s ultimate goal is the full dualling of the A47 with appropriate grade separation. A fully dualled A47 will help to boost the economic prosperity of a large part of the East of England and make a significant contribution to the national economy.
The estimated cost of a fully dualled A47 is £1.4bn and through a combination of selected improvements, there could be up to 16,890 jobs created within 20 years, with an increase of £706m in economic output (GVA). As well as over 10,500 new homes.
Spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. To reserve your place please email: A47alliance@norfolk.gov.uk
The official publication by the European standardisation body CEN Standard of Customs Competency for Customs Representatives (EN 16992:2017) has been welcomed by leading trade bodies.
CONFIAD, the Pan European Network of Customs Brokers and Customs Representatives, and CLECAT, the European association of freight forwarders, transport and customs-related services, said that it would promote professionalism, skills and knowledge in the customs representation within the EU.
Both bodies have promoted and financed the development of the CEN Standard.
Under the management of AFNOR (the French National Standardisation Body), it was developed by CEN, taking the Customs competency framework for private sector published by the European Commission into consideration.
Jean-François Auzeau, Chairman of the Customs Institute in CLECAT, said: “Whereas investments made to develop interoperability between electronic systems for the exchange of information, single window, etc will support daily operations in customs, a high level of expertise of the customs representative to secure compliance in the supply chain will remain critical for professionalism and good service to our shipper clients.”
In line with the criteria of customs competency required by the Authorised Economic Operator – Customs (AEO(C)) status in the Union Customs Code, the new Standard will support customs representation services offered by any customs representative in an EU Member State where the customs representative is not established.
At national level, each National Standardisation Body will now need to prepare and finalise the national publication of the Standard.
Read updates issued by the Export Control Organisation including details about imposition of arms embargoes, Open General Export Licence amendments or announcements about Control List changes.
Notice to Exporters 2013/14 In a recent Notice to Exporters (2013/11), the ECO advised that changes to SPIRE, that would enable you to provide them with information to meet government transparency requirements, would be completed in April. It has since become clear that further development time is necessary and they are now planning to roll out the reporting system in July.
On Tuesday 28th March, over 30 delegates joined us to learn more about the business opportunities in Japan at the Holiday Inn, Norwich. The event proved to be an informative and relaxed introduction to the cultural norms of doing business in Japan as well as the allures of the Japanese market as part of our international event series. The venue provided the attendees with plenty of tea and coffee as well as spacious and comfortable setting on this sunny afternoon.
Norfolk Chamber’s International Trade Manager, Julie Austin, welcomed delegates to the event, introducing our four expert presenters from companies: Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Integro Languages and Barclays. First up to speak was Daisaku Yukita, Deputy Director-General of JEtro, who highlighted the draws of the Japanese market and an overall impression of the challenges and solutions to doing Business in Japan.
Next up were Tom Bool and Shohei Yamaguchi from Integro Languages. Tom spoke about how crucial gaining linguistic support was in growing your business internationally. He then introduced Shohei, a Japanese national and head of Integro’s Asian languages division, who provided a crash course on what to expect from interactions with Japanese business community and the pitfalls to avoid.
The delegates were then provided with a delicious range of cakes and refreshments, allowing the opportunity to network with one another and discuss some of the subject matter introduced by our speakers.
Cake and tea consumed, Phil Ball, Director of Trade Sales at Barclays, then took to the podium to indicate some financial tips and issues when trading with Japan.
Julie also gave a short presentation on how the chamber can help your business to expand overseas. If you would like any more information on how we can help, please visit our international page or contact the team:
We closed the event with a Q&A session, after which, many delegates took the chance to talk further with the speakers and get in some final networking to make those all-important contacts.
Commenting on the Great Repeal Bill White Paper, Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber said:
“Norfolk’s business community want certainty from day-one on the rules and regulations they will face when the UK leaves the EU. For that reason, we welcome the premise of stability and continuity at the heart of the Great Repeal Bill.
“A legislative transition of this size and scope has never before been implemented, and Norfolk Chamber and our Westminster office, the British Chambers of Commerce, will be working closely with senior civil servants and Ministers to ensure there are no unintended consequences for individual firms, for sectors or for business communities as a whole.”
Also commenting, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The government must be exceedingly careful in its use of proposed fast-track powers, or risk blighting businesses with additional costs and burdens. As we have seen in the past, it takes only takes one poorly-drafted regulation to spark expensive court cases with wide-reaching consequences – and we are talking here about re-drafting thousands of pieces of the rule-book.
“In the fullness of time, businesses want to work with government to determine areas where maintaining equivalence with EU law is in our national economic interest, and areas where some divergence and change may be required. This will be a complex endeavor – better done right than done quickly.”
With the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) changes coming May 2018, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce are set to deliver a new event to help Norfolk businesses stay cyber safe.
The Cyber Security Conference on Thursday 18 May 2017 will be a key event for the business calendar this year. With news headlines filled with the latest cyber-attack on corporate giants, organisations small and large need to be aware of the danger to their data. In May 2018 a new European regulation will come into effect meaning that businesses will have to completely re-think their data protection regimes. High standards are to be set on the accountability of how data is recorded, kept and processed. One of the biggest threats is the increase in fines from €500,000 to a maximum of €20m or 4% of global turnover.
To visit the event webpage and book your place click here
Norfolk Chamber’s Chief Executive, Caroline Williams said: “We live in a fast-paced, global economy that relies more and more on data and information carried through cyberspace. Just as it is important for businesses to protect their physical property from intruders and potential theft, it is as important to guard against cybercrime. “The necessity of strong cybersecurity measures is self-evident and business needs to respond to this increased threat by adopting strict cybersecurity measures to ensure their continued economic growth. This event will give you the tools to help protect your organisation.” Hosted by Paul Maskall, Cybercrime Security Advisor and Coordinator for Norfolk and Suffolk Constabularies, this event is set to help your business avoid the €20m fine by bringing together speakers from a range of businesses and backgrounds; with the event featuring talks and live demonstrations. Speakers for the event are being sent from both local and national businesses including Birketts, FreeClix and PwC. Talks will cover topics such as the GDPR, inside threats, the Internet of Things, preventing attacks and more. Question and answer, networking opportunities and an exhibition will also feature on this half day conference agenda. The event is open to all businesses of all sizes and industries to attend to gain vital knowledge on cyber practise. If you’re a business owner, work in IT, Security or Tech, you’ll want to be there. Event sponsorship and stands are available now, as well as event tickets. Full details can be found online hereSpeakers Include: • Paul Maskall, Norfolk and Suffolk Constabularies • Kitty Rosser, Birketts LLP • Peter Freeman, FreeClix Ltd • Rahul Colaco, PwC
Media Invitation
Date: Thursday 18 May 2017, 9am – 12:30pm Venue: The Space, Norwich Members of press and media are invited to attend the event. An official photographer will be at the event and a selection of photographs will be available for use on request the following working day. If you would like to attend or arrange an interview with a speaker please email joe.fitzgerald@norfolkchamber.co.uk or phone 01603 729708.
Right now the world wants quality Norfolk goods and services. There are millions of people across the world looking for the right skills, expertise, goods and services. The demand is out there and your business should be too.
The Department for International Trade’s Export Hub is coming to Norfolk this April.
Scottow Enterprise Park
Date: Wednesday 12 April 2017
Time: 10:00 – 13:00 Hrs
Venue: On-board The Export Hub, Scottow Enterprise Park, Lamas Road,
Baddersfield, Scottow, NR10 5FB
Hethel Engineering Centre
Date: Thursday 13 April 2017
Time: 11:00 – 14:00 Hrs
Venue: On-board The Export Hub, Hethel Engineering Centre, Chapman Way, Hethel, Norwich, NR14 8FB
Trading abroad can boost your company’s profile, credibility and bottom line. And operating in new markets will mean you are more likely to be aware of the emerging needs of that market and the new opportunities that may arise for your business.
This exposure will ensure Norfolk businesses are better able to maintain a competitive position in this sector. Exporting will also enhance your businesses profile, whether for new clients at home or abroad.
Commenting the Export Hubs coming to our county, Julie Austin, International Trade Manager for Norfolk Chamber said:
“With Brexit negotiations now under way, it is important for Norfolk’s innovative firms to consider the opportunities that international trade can offer. With lots of existing and new emerging markets, exporting has never been easier. The Export Hubs offer a unique opportunity to find out how you can profile your business’ skills and services to the rest of the world.”
You do not need to pre-register, please just stop by on the above dates and times to talk about how you can improve or start exporting.
The latest Bank of England Agents’ Summary for Quarter One 2017 has been published. Key highlights are:
Overall moderate rates of growth activity have continued
Investment intentions have picked up with points to modest growth ahead
The fall in sterling has resulted in higher manufacturing output
Moderate rates of activity growth has continued overall. Retail sales volumes growth had eased. It was expected to slow further during the year ahead as the fall in sterling fed through to higher prices, reducing households’ purchasing power. In contrast, export volume growth had picked up. That was due to the fall in sterling and stronger world growth.
Investment intentions had picked up, pointing to modest growth in spending in the year ahead. That reflected continued moderate demand growth and less uncertainty about economic prospects, particularly in the near term. But a lack of visibility of the United Kingdom’s future trading arrangements was weighing on longer-term plans for some contacts.
The fall in sterling was being passed through into higher manufacturing output and consumer goods price inflation. Business and consumer services price inflation had edged higher.
Digital skills are increasingly important to the operation of businesses in Norfolk and the rest of the UK but companies are facing a shortage of skills in their workforce which is hampering productivity, according to a new survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), released today (Friday).
More than 1,400 business in the UK took part in the survey, including those in Norfolk. The Norfolk results showed that 83% of firms say digital and IT skills are more important to their business than two years ago, with half (54%) saying these skills are significantly more important.
However, the survey also found that more than three-in-four businesses are facing a shortage of digital skills in their workforce, with 56% reporting a slight shortage, 17% a significant one and 4% a critical shortage.
The Norfolk key findings of the survey are:
The skills most important to companies are basic computer skills (70%), communicating and connecting through digital channels (74%) and management of digital information (69%)
Skills shortages are having adverse effects on many firms including, increasing workload on existing staff (53%), higher operating costs (33%), and causing difficulties in meeting customer requirements (18%)
Businesses regard a lack of time for staff training (29%), difficulty in identifying appropriate training (27%), and the high cost of training (15%), as the leading barriers to rectifying these shortages.
Nova Fairbank, Public Affairs Manager of Norfolk Chamber said:
“The evidence is clear: better digital skills make Norfolk firms more productive, and a lack of digital skills holds them back.
“Businesses themselves can do a lot more to tackle the digital skills shortages they face. They need to be aware that a failure to tackle this issue will ultimately impact on their bottom line. If no action is taken, then firms could get stuck in an unproductive cycle, where a lack of action will have serious consequences.
“Training providers in our region can help by engaging with companies on their digital needs and help them to free up resources for growth. Equally, the government must help as well, by recognising that some of the high-level digital skills local businesses need will come from overseas, so a pragmatic immigration system needs to be in place to provide Norfolk companies with access to the workers required to fill some of the gaps.”