In the three months to February 2015 employment rose by 248,000, while unemployment fell by 76,000
The proportion of people aged 16 – 64 in work was 73.4%, the highest since record began in 1971
The total unemployment rate fell to 5.6% and the youth unemployment rate declined to 16.1%
Total pay including bonuses rose by 1.7% compared with a year earlier, while pay excluding bonuses rose by 1.8%.
Commenting on the labour market statistics for April 2015, published today by the ONS,David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
“The latest figures continue to highlight the dynamism and resilience of the UK labour market. Rising employment levels and falling unemployment supports our view that the UK economy will record steady growth in the first quarter, despite the recent disappointing construction and production figures.
“And it is very welcome news that wage increases are now higher than inflation and are boosting living standards.
“However, challenges remain – we must address the youth unemployment rate. Although it continues to fall, it is still more than three times the national average.”
David Bharier, BCC Business Insight Manager said:
“The BCC’s Quarterly Economic Survey* shows a steady level of growth in employment levels since the 2008-09 recession, despite slight slowdowns in recent quarters.
“However, a majority of firms from both the manufacturing and services sectors struggle to find the right staff, with 69% and 65% reporting recruitment difficulties in the last three months, respectively.”
As mentioned in last week’s news article, those businesses who imported from the EU and made a Simplified Declaration, or have yet to make any declaration at all, you need to be ready to make your full declaration at the 175 days later point. Be careful: If you’re receiving, or have already received goods from the EU, and are not doing full declarations, you are potentially accumulating duty debt and could be subject to HMRC penalties. Filing a Customs Declaration is a legally binding act between the UK Trader and the UK Customs authorities. Unless you are buying under DDP terms (Delivered Duty Paid), as the importer you have the right to choose your customs agent, and also the obligation to report information to HMRC accurately and correctly. Here at Norfolk ChamberCustoms, we have the resource and expertise to support you with your Import and Export Declarations. We have Capacity. On the 25th of June, the Norfolk Chamber’s International Team presented an hour long Webinar, titled “Maximising your international Trade”. Follow this link ,to discover how the Norfolk Chamber can help you with your business’ International needs, and meet the International team that will be looking after you. Also, find attached the ChamberCustoms brochure, which gives you more detail of the Customs Declarations service available to you now.
Norfolk’s leading business to business showcase returns on Thursday 14th October 2021 at Norfolk Showground* – and you can now register for your free fast-track tickets!
The B2B Exhibition is Norfolk’s largest business-to-business exhibition. Free to attend and attracting hundreds of businesses on the day, B2B is a highlight on the Norfolk events calendar.
For visitors, the event gives the opportunity to meet new potential clients, catch up with existing contacts and make connections at this prestigious event. Registering for your tickets now will enable you to avoid the queues on the day so that you can start to connect with businesses straightaway.
At B2B you can:
Meet and connect with over 100 exhibitors in the exhibition hall.
Attend free business workshops and seminars in the Co.llaboration Hub sponsored by Lovewell Blake.
Get free 1-to-1 advice at our Co.mmunicate Hub with Knowledge Hour Live sponsored by Spire Solicitors (booking available soon).
Join in our speed networking sessions throughout the day in the Co.nnected Hub.
Get some fresh air and connect with businesses in our Outdoor Hub sponsored by Credo Asset Finance and Credo Motorsport Finance.
Relax and catch up with colleagues and acquaintances in our Food and Drink Hub sponsored by Proudly Norfolk.
Join us for the B2B after party for drinks, snacks and a good old catch up!
There is also free parking available at the event.
You can register for your free fast track tickets here
*We are doing everything we can to bring you this event in October by following government COVID guidelines. However, due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic we may have to postpone this event at short notice if circumstances arise that are out of our control.
Growth: 63% of firms surveyed confident in their growth prospects over next 12 months
Restarting: 53% already operating at pre-pandemic capacity; 80% expect to be by October
Barriers: 38% cited further lockdowns as a barrier to re-opening, while 37% cited ongoing social distancing measures
Finance: 44% believe access to finance will help overcome the remaining barriers to fully restarting operations
UK small businesses are increasingly confident in their ability to grow and power the economic recovery, although many still have fears about the ongoing impact of Covid restrictions. This comes according to new data published today by the British Chambers of Commerce in partnership with Funding Circle, the UK’s largest small business loan platform.
The survey of more than 1,000 firms, almost all SMEs, reveals the majority (63%) are emerging from lockdown with either concrete plans or intentions to grow their business over the next 12 months. The manufacturing sector (68%) is particularly optimistic, while nearly six-in-ten (58%) of the hardest hit business-to-consumer (B2C) firms such as hospitality, catering and retail still anticipate growth.
Although the UK economy is yet to fully reopen, many businesses have demonstrated their resilience and are already carrying out their vital role as engines of economic growth. More than half (53%) said they had already restarted or returned to pre-pandemic levels in April, with a further 27% expecting to reach this milestone by October. By the end of the year, 91% of businesses expect to have fully restarted, with only 1% not expecting to restart for the foreseeable future.
For many, the biggest barriers to reopening are Covid-related, such as the risk of further lockdowns (cited by 38% of respondents) or social distancing requirements (cited by 37%). Concerns around reduced customer demand (33%), inflation pressure (18%) and recruitment difficulties (14%) are also weighing on UK businesses.
Access to finance will be key in helping SMEs to unlock their full growth potential, with nearly half (44%) believing it will help overcome the remaining barriers they face.
Commenting on the findings, Claire Walker, Co-executive Director of the BCC, said: “The ability of businesses to bounce back from the devastation caused by Covid is a huge testament to their resilience. Although, the financial support put in place by the government to help many through the last 12 months will have played a crucial role.
“The government must now clarify the future of safety measures, such as social distancing, and set out a clear package of support that would be available should further restrictions be imposed on businesses this year, or in the years to come.
“Firms will feel more confident and will be more willing to invest in jobs and in developing their business, if government can give assurances that a safety net of financial support will be provided should there be a need for restrictions which reduce or stop commercial activity in order to protect public health.
“There is cautious optimism growing among firms that as the economy now gradually unlocks, they will be able to push on and return to growth. But the shadow of Covid is very long; many firms still feel uncertain about what the future holds. Having access to finance to help them weather this continuing uncertainty may well prove vital.”
Lisa Jacobs, Europe Managing Director at Funding Circle, added: “While the road to recovery won’t be straightforward, it is great to see SMEs are looking towards the future with such optimism. From our conversations with customers, it’s clear their appetite to invest in their businesses is as high as ever. We’re ready to continue helping them access the finance they need to overcome the remaining hurdles they face, and achieve their growth ambitions.”
The term ‘apprenticeship’ will be protected in law, the government has just announced. It is hoped that this will strengthen their reputation and ensure apprenticeships are recognised as a career path equal to higher education.
With over 2.2 million apprenticeships created since 2010 the government will also enshrine in law its commitment to create 3 million apprenticeships by 2020.
With apprenticeships giving hope and opportunity to more young people, and helping all types and sizes of businesses grow in communities across Norfolk, the Skills Minister will legally protect the term ‘apprenticeship’ through the Enterprise Bill. This will give government the power to take action when the term is misused to promote low quality courses.
To ensure that more young people can benefit the minister has also announced that public bodies will now be set targets to take on more apprentices. Schools, hospitals, prisons and police forces will all be creating opportunities for young people to get on.
Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber said: ‘Many businesses have come to recognise the value of apprentices and schools are starting to promote them as a real alternative to University. However, there remains a perception from many parents that apprenticeships are second best. In Norfolk there are some fantastic opportunities for young people with fast growing companies and it is a positive move that the government also recognise how important they are to the local economy’
Norfolk Chambers of Commerce is proud to announce that Spire Solicitors will be the sponsors of the Co.mmunicate Hub at B2B this October.
Norfolk’s leading business to business showcase returns on Thursday 14 October 2021 at Norfolk Showground* and Norfolk Chambers are delighted to confirm that Spire Solicitors will be the official sponsors of the Co.mmunicate hub at the show.
The B2B Exhibition is Norfolk’s largest business-to-business exhibition. Free to attend and attracting hundreds of businesses on the day, B2B is a highlight on the Norfolk events calendar.
The Co.mmunicate hub is the place where businesses can talk one-to-one with business specialists to help grow their business. Experts from a range of specialisms will be available for 15-minute slots throughout the day (more information on who and how to book coming soon). The hub is part of Norfolk Chambers of Commerce’s Knowledge Hour, which encourages businesses to allow employees to take 1 hour a week for learning and development.
Matthew Downing, Partner and Head of Corporate and Commercial at Spire Solicitors LLP, said: “Norfolk Chambers does a great job of supporting local businesses throughout the year and this event will be an excellent opportunity for the local business community to finally see each other again after such a long time apart. We are proud to be sponsors of the Co.mmunicate Hub, which incorporates Knowledge Hour and Norfolk Knowledge Hub, and we look forward to seeing you all at our stand on the day.”
For exhibitors and visitors, the event gives the opportunity to meet new potential clients, catch up with existing contacts and have a presence at this prestigious event.
Alongside the Co.mmunicate hub, you can also meet a plethora of businesses in the exhibition, take part in speed networking sessions throughout the day, go to a free workshop or seminar, relax in the Proudly Norfolk food hub and join us for the B2B after party (ticketed event).
Free tickets to the exhibition are now available so that you can gain fast-track entry on the day. Register here
*We are doing everything we can to bring you this event in October by following government COVID guidelines. However, due to the unpredictable nature of the pandemic we may have to postpone this event at short notice if circumstances arise that are out of our control.
Town Deal Board members were delighted to hear today’s Government announcements, that King’s Lynn’s Town Deal Board had been allocated the maximum amount of £25 million to press ahead with a range of projects. Graham Purkins, Chief Technical Officer of Merxin, and Chair of the Town Deal Board, said: “We are delighted to receive notification that our King’s Lynn’s Town Investment Plan submission has been successful. “The collaborative working between the Town Deal Board and borough council in conjunction with valuable and constructive engagement with the local community enabled us to submit a strong proposal through which we have secured the maximum possible amount of funding. This is a significant achievement, and I would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and commitment that has made it possible. “Last year we received a smaller amount through the Accelerated Towns Deal Funding which has enabled us to start improvements to our town centre and the initiation of a new School of Nursing in partnership with the QE hospital and the College of West Anglia. We are already making a difference. “Receiving the Towns Fund money will now enable us to start the process of delivering the broader range of projects identified in our plan and help us all work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for King’s Lynn.” The projects are split into four general themes: – economic productivity through urban regeneration, planning and land use; skills and enterprise; and infrastructure and connectivity.
Michael Baldwin, President of West Norfolk Chamber Council and member of the Town Deal Board said: “This is very welcome news for King’s Lynn, we are looking forward to working with the Town Deal Board and the wider business community to deliver some fantastic improvements to King’s Lynn that will help boost the local economy.”
Cllr Stuart Dark MBE, Leader of the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk and borough’s lead representative on the Town Deal Board, added: “This announcement is really great news for the town, as it brings significant external investment to a range of priority projects that combine to deliver major improvement. All the projects submitted in the bid were developed through consultation with the public and engagement with stakeholders and local businesses through the Town Deal Board we established as part of the required process. “I am delighted that central government has recognised the need for this funding in King’s Lynn and can see, through the strength of our bid and board, the clear benefit that can be realised here. “We are awaiting the exact details of the next steps but are so pleased the exciting work of bringing the projects to fruition with partners, in consultation with stakeholders and the wider community, can now begin to start in earnest. Commenting on today’s announcement from the government’s Towns Fund, James Wild MP, said: “I’m delighted to have helped secure this major investment to boost skills, improve the town centre, promote our strong Shakespeare links and heritage, and support new and growing businesses. “With funding already secured for a new School of Nursing Studies, North West Norfolk is really benefitting from the government’s commitment to spread opportunity and level up. “I now look forward to helping deliver these ambitious plans as part of the Towns Fund board and making Lynn an even better place to live, work, and visit.” Further details about the Town Investment Plan and Town Deal Fund projects can be viewed at www.visionkingslynn.co.uk
Importers and exporters, you have until 1 July 2021 to make a full declaration on your EU imports that have arrived in the UK after 31 December 2020 – but don’t worry we can help.
Our International Team work with Chamber Customs to provide you with all the documentation you need to avoid falling into arrears with any duty or VAT payments due on your imports.
What You Need Is What We Do.
Contact us on 01603 625977 or email us at: chambercustoms@norfolkchambers.co.uk
There are now 4 more trading cards to co.nnect with, as the remaining members of Team Norfolk Chambers joins our mission to connect, support and give voice to every business in Norfolk.
Team Norfolk Chambers is here and ready to help support you and your business with a range of skills such as making business connections, promoting what you do and how you do it, giving you access to exclusive discounts, helping you make change, and crafting bespoke business support specifically for you.
Now there are 4 more members of the Team to get to know. Introducing Charlotte Upcraft, Paul Vincent, Nova Fairbank and Chris Sargisson. As with the other members of Team Norfolk Chambers, each have their own trading card with a moniker that highlights the key skills they can offer Norfolk businesses.
Charlotte, AKA The Fixer is the project coordinator queen, helping support businesses with projects that can enable them to do better business. Paul, AKA Mr. Finance helps businesses navigate the challenging world of finance and accounting, he has non-stop energy and can help businesses get the financial support they need. Nova, AKA The Guru is the ‘holder of the knowledge’ and can help businesses get the know-how they need to help their business grow. Finally, Chris, AKA The Disruptor enables those businesses whose results need a boost to develop strategy that refocuses on customer experience, digital transformation and developing a workforce with a renewed mindset to help the business gain a bigger part of the market it seeks.
The four join the Membership and International teams, and together Team Norfolk Chambers can help make things happen for businesses like yours. If you need bespoke support for your business – we can provide membership that can be as individual as you are. If you need to increase your customer base – we can connect you to like-minded businesses. If you need to shout about a project/product you have launched – we can amplify your message. If you need exporting advice – we can help you trade globally. If you know what you want to do but don’t know where to start – we can support you by making collaborations.
Each of us have difference skills, but when we co.llaborate we are a unique force for your business.
International trade, the investment it brings, and the deals we’re negotiating will deliver growth, jobs, higher wages and a better standard of living to all parts of the UK. Attached is a useful 1 page summary capturing some of the key benefits.
Over the coming months DIT will be running a series of events and webinars (which you can find on www.events.great.gov.uk) and training collaborations (for example through the Export Academy that we have just starting rolling out) about trading with Australia so that businesses are ready to take advantage of the easier trading arrangements once the deal is signed and then ratified by Parliament. We hope you will join us in promoting this great milestone, which will create great opportunities for local exporters and investors alike .
Driven by a modern and ambitious trade agenda, we are continuing to work with our closest trading partners spanning the Americas and the Pacific to unlock some of the most competitive and favourable trading conditions. This includes:
Completing four rounds of negotiations with New Zealand
Kicking off preparations for a trade deal with India by launching a 14-week consultation
Beginning our accession process to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans Pacific Partnership
Announced the new trade deal with Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein
All of this work further secures the UK’s position as an independent trading nation and will bring benefits to the UK as a whole.
William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce Statement “Businesses will welcome this Agreement in Principle as a step forward. However, there is a long way to go before the signing and implementation of a free trade deal. It should also be pointed out that trade with Australia represents only around 1.2% of the UK’s total, so whilst a deal will have welcome benefits it will not offset the ongoing issues with trade to the European Union. “Today’s agreement opens the door to a free trade agreement in force next year with lower tariffs, modern rules of origin for certain manufactured goods, customs facilitation measures, mutual recognition of qualifications, a labour mobility scheme, and stronger market access for services between the UK and Australia. “Businesses remained concerned about the lack of opportunities to properly scrutinise trade deals including this one. There needs to be more in-depth industry consultation, particularly in sectors considered sensitive, to better analyse UK’s offensive and defensive strategic interests and the impact on other agreements. “Ultimately it is businesses not governments that trade, and this deal with Australia needs to be complemented by providing practical, on the ground, support to help firms maximise the new opportunities the agreement will bring. “We urge the government to engage closely with businesses over the coming months on how to get the most value out of the final agreement. Chambers of Commerce stand ready to work with government to ensure that the benefits of this agreement are felt by firms as widely as possible.” Find attached the Top ten benefits of the Australia Trade deal
The new Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, Shevaun Haviland, last week set out the action needed to help firms and communities rebuild.
In her first speech at the BCC’s Global Annual Conference, she stated that key steps are needed to boost UK trade, unlock the blockages in the skills training system and build a greener and more sustainable economy that achieves the aim of net zero by 2050.
Putting trade and export at the heart of her future vision for the country, she said:
“Imagine what a difference it would make to our economy if we could increase the number of businesses that export from 10 to 20 per cent? We know from our survey data that internationally active firms are more likely to be innovating and introducing new products, services, and processes than those not working globally.
“If we are going to truly succeed in our new trading conditions, the government and business must work together shoulder to shoulder. The Government must bring together all organisations working in this area, both public and private sector, behind a shared UK trade and investment strategy.”
Following last Monday’s news of the delay on full reopening for England, Ms Haviland also warned against the government removing support for businesses too early and of the risks of an uneven recovery saying;
“Despite the challenges firms have faced – the rising burden of debt and depleted cashflow – there are signs that firms are beginning to feel more positive about the future,”…. “While it may be slow, they can see a route back to full operation, where they can start to invest and power the economic recovery.”
“That’s why today I am setting out the BCC’s recommendations to rapidly Rebuild the economy, to not just take this country back to where we started, but to go beyond that to a better, reener, more productive future.
“We know the financial support put in place during the darkest hours of the pandemic cannot, and should not, last forever. But we must ensure this scaffolding is not taken away too early.
“With many firms struggling with the damage done to their cashflow and revenue by COVID, the risk of a marked rise in insolvencies and redundancies as government support winds down remains high.
“And the recovery will be dramatically uneven across different sectors, locations and demographics. So just as the Government supported firms to survive through the crisis, they must also act now to enable them to thrive in the recovery.”
Tributes were made to the role that accredited Chambers of Commerce have made to keeping businesses afloat throughout the pandemic adding; “As Chambers of Commerce, our business is all about helping other businesses to succeed. And this crisis has allowed our Chambers to do what they do best.
“Firstly, our 53 Chambers across the United Kingdom have incredible local knowledge and networks, and they have provided unparalleled support to businesses in their places, to help carry them through the crisis…”
”…Secondly, by working together through the British Chambers of Commerce we have been able to help shape the policies that have kept us all in business.”
“And lastly our growing network of 73 International Chambers around the world, puts us in a unique position of strength to grasp global opportunities as we open up again.”
The BCC is also publishing it’s Rebuild report – which sets out the detail of what the organisation believes is needed for UK businesses and communities to prosper in 2021 and beyond.
As Coronavirus continues to impact the day-to-day operations of businesses across the UK, your Norfolk Chambers of Commerce and the wider Chambers’ network stands ready to support you.
Since March 2020, thousands of businesses across the UK have contributed to the British Chamber networks’ business surveys. The data we collect from our surveys have been the leading sources on business conditions and have been used directly to support the decision to extend Covid-19 business support schemes. Your views have been absolutely essential to this. In this 7 minute survey, feel free to give us your views on the process of reopening and returning to work, upcoming changes related to Covid-19 support, the measures your business may be taking to become net zero, and the support you may need. Your input will be shared widely across UK government to create better business policy. Our research receives widespread national media coverage, and with your consent, we may also ask you to share your views with media outlets. As a business leader, your views have never been more important. To share you thoughts to help us lobby on your behalf, please take the short survey here.