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Giving her initial reaction to the Autumn Budget, Nova Fairbank, Public Affairs Manager at Norfolk Chamber said:

 “The Norfolk Chamber business community wanted the Chancellor to focus on the basics – rates, roads, and ringtones – and will be pleased that they will see some action on all three fronts. 

“While more remains to be done to reduce the impact of business rates on investment and growth, the Chancellor’s decisions will lessen the impact of rate rises on hard-pressed firms in many parts of the county from next April. The Chamber network campaigned hard for a reduction in the relentless rises of this iniquitous tax, and all will be pleased that the Chancellor has listened and reduced the burden. 

“Commitments to delivering road and rail infrastructure, and working to improve mobile phone signals on key transport corridors, will help support local business productivity. We are particularly pleased with the awarding of funding for the Great Yarmouth Third River Crossing.

“Despite the inclusion of a number of announcements that will support the Norfolk business community in the short term, more will still needs to be done over the coming months to lay the groundwork for a successful Brexit transition. Businesses will expect greater boldness from the Chancellor – and more radical support for infrastructure and investment – once a Brexit transition period is secured and the shape of a UK-EU deal becomes clearer.”

• “An increase in QE is unnecessary…the MPC should look to purchase other private sector assets, such as securitised SME loans”

Commenting on the Monetary Policy Committee minutes for April, published today by the Bank of England, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

“As expected, the decision by the Monetary Policy Committee to maintain interest rates at 0.5% was unanimous. This month there was a change in the committee’s vote on increasing the Quantitative Easing (QE) programme, with Adam Posen changing his vote in support of an increase to against a further rise. The decision to maintain the current level of QE was taken with a majority of eight members to one, rather than seven to two.

“The minutes acknowledge that the fall in inflation in recent months has been less than the committee originally envisaged. The MPC also raised questions over the accuracy of initial ONS reports of sharp falls in construction that may push the economy into technical recession in Q1.

“In spite of current uncertainties around next week’s GDP figure, and increase in QE is unnecessary, and any impact would be marginal. The MPC’s main priority should be ensuring that the large amount of assets already purchased is put to better use. The recent increase in QE should be used to help increase the flow of lending to businesses. The MPC should also look to purchase other private sector assets, such as securitised SME loans.”

The inaugural North Norfolk District Council Business Awards has been launched – and businesses across the district are being encouraged to put themselves forward to win one of the prestigious titles.

The awards (#NNBA18) are open to businesses of all sizes and across all sectors. The aim is to promote and celebrate the vibrant business community across North Norfolk, and to unearth some hidden gems during the process.

There are seven categories: Agricultural, Business Growth, Business Development & Innovation, Environmental, New Businesses, Tourism & Hospitality, and Young People & Skills.

Entries can be submitted until January 15, with the shortlisted businesses invited to an awards ceremony at Gresham’s School on February 15.

Cllr Tom FitzPatrick, Leader of North Norfolk District Council, said: “We regularly deal with some very successful and very exciting ventures, but too often these successes don’t get the recognition they deserve.

“This inaugural project will reveal some of the hidden business stories across North Norfolk, and give the district as a whole the chance to celebrate the vibrancy of our business community.”

Cllr Nigel Dixon, NNDC Portfolio Holder for Business & Economic Development, said:  “There is huge diversity within the business community across North Norfolk, and these awards are designed to be relevant across all sectors.

“Many businesses will be keen to win their individual categories, but it’s just as important for us that every organisation that enters will benefit from taking part and be able to shout about all the successes they are having.”

The categories are being sponsored by Anglian Water, Archant, Eastlaw, New Anglia LEP and Norfolk Hideaways.

The awards night will be hosted by Chris Sargisson, chief executive of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.

He said: ” Norfolk businesses are in great shape and many lead the world within their chosen field by demonstrating the key attributes needed for success: dynamism, creativity and resilience, to name just a few.

“The future and growth of the economy across the county – including in North Norfolk – is centred on recognising brilliance, supporting the region as a place where success thrives and, most importantly, celebrating the best.”

To enter the North Norfolk District Council Business Awards, visit: https://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/businessawards/index.html

The Highways Agency haspublished its Business Plan, which sets out how it will operate,maintain and improve the 4,300-mile network of motorwaysand trunk roads in England in the year ahead. For the comingfinancial year, key highlights in the Highways Agency’sBusiness Plan include:

• Continuing to deliver the programme of major road improvement schemes efficiently, bringing significant benefits to road usersand the national and regional economies. Subject to statutory processes, they plan to start work on four major road schemes:in 2012/13: M6 J5 to J8 managed motorway; dualling of the A11between Fiveways and Thetford in Norfolk; M1 J32 to 35a managedmotorway; and widening of the A453 in Nottinghamshire. The first of the new Asset Support Contracts (ASCs), which will deliver increased value for money in operating and maintaining the strategic road network, going live in mid-2012.

• Commencement of the procurement process for free-flow chargingat Dartford.

• Taking forward investment on the A14, to reduce congestion andincrease resilience, including junction improvements.

• Staffing a dedicated, full-time Olympic command centre for theGames.

• Leading the delivery of a number of elements of the joint CLEAR(Collision, Lead, Evaluate, Act and Reopen) initiative to reduce theinconvenience caused by motorway incidents.

• Delivering the first elements of an integrated asset managementsystem, which will provide better information for decision-making formaintenance and renewal activity. The first of the new Asset Support Contracts (ASCs), which willdeliver increased value for money in operating and maintaining thestrategic road network, going live in mid-2012.

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Commenting on the Industrial Strategy White Paper, Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

“Chambers of Commerce have been working actively with government to develop the Industrial Strategy, and we are pleased that the concerns and ideas of business communities across the country have been listened to.

“Businesses will welcome the sense of mission that infuses the Industrial Strategy, as well as its assessment of the challenges and opportunities that the UK faces, particularly as both businesses and government look to forge a new path beyond the European Union.

“We have been clear that harnessing the potential of our cities, towns and counties is crucial to make our country more competitive and prosperous, and so Chamber business communities will cheer the focus on places to boost productivity in local economies.

“Over the coming months, it is crucial that the government listens to the full range of business voices when developing local and sector-based deals, so that firms of all sizes and sectors can buy into the Strategy for years to come. 

“Businesses will now want to see clear evidence that this Industrial Strategy can be implemented over the long term – and will be dismayed if it falls victim to short-term Westminster politicking. Only a consistent and coherent approach over time will help set the foundations for business communities across the UK to grow and thrive.” 

Ship Shape IMO is part of Ship Shape World LTD based in Wroxham, Norfolk. We are Off-Shore Cabin Equipment Suppliers, specialising in IMO/SOLAS and MED WheelMarked Compliant products for Offshore and High Risk Applications. With our production facilities, we produce a comprehensive range of products including Beds, Mattresses, Bedding, DRY-Mat® (Anti-Condensation Mattress Ventilation Underlay), Furniture, Curtains, Flooring and many more products which meet the stringent safety standards required for an Off-Shore Vessel / Rig. What is ideal for life at home isn’t always suitable for life at sea. Here at Ship Shape IMO our aim is to supply our customers with fully compliant products to reduce the potential disruptions and unnecessary expense to corporations.

“Surveyors and port officials have the power to fine or block movements of vessels for failure to comply with the required legislation” Our aim is to make sure this doesn’t happen, we are here to give advice and make sure your heading in the right direction.

We supply products to Commercial Cargo Shipping Vessels, Off Shore Energy Rigs, Ferries, Passenger Vessels and Military Vessels from all corners of the globe. We have decided to join the chamber of commerce to aid us with our Local and International growth objectives, Network and take advantage of the great training courses available. With the Advice and Documentation services we feel that becoming a member will dramatically improve our global operations and services.

Being based in Norfolk with busy Ports such as Lowestoft, Felixstowe and Great Yarmouth the membership will open doors to new networks of communication on a local level. We are here to help assist ship Operators, Owners and Suppliers by supplying good quality compliant products suitable to Marine and Rig usage. The Marine industry can be a tricky one when it comes to legislation and here at Ship Shape IMO we look to make the process simple and easier for our customers.

As Members of the British Association of Ship Suppliers (BASS), International Association of Ship Suppliers (IASS), The Ship Suppliers Association (SSA), ISO 9001 Certified amongst many others you can be guaranteed Great Customer Service, Quality Products and Competitive Prices it would be silly if we were not your go too company when it comes to Marine / Offshore Commercial Cabin Supplies.

Check out the directory listing here: 

Ship Shape World Ltd

A company in Egypt is seeking distribution partners in the UK for their products – high quality Egyptian cotton items and fresh produce.

The two attachments below will provide more information about the company and their activities.

If you are interested in this great opportunity, please contact us on export@norfolkchamber.co.uk and we will pass your details on. 

A meeting between Trade Minister Greg Hands and representatives of the 15-member CARIFORUM group of countries has resulted in agreement to discuss future trade ties in more detail.

The CARIFORUM States are: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Bilateral trade between the group and the UK was worth more than £2 billion last year.

That trade is, however, currently subject to the provisions of an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and CARIFORUM, which was signed in 2008. As long as the UK remains a member of the EU, that agreement will continue to apply.

With Brexit looming ever larger on the horizon, the Government is seeking to make sure that trade with CARIFORUM members will continue when the UK leaves the EU.

CARIFORUM Ministers reportedly welcomed both the UK’s commitment to the existing CARIFORUM-EU EPA and the Government’s stated intention to avoid disruption for its trading partners during the Brexit process.

They were also said to have appreciated the UK’s desire to maintain current market access to the UK post-Brexit.

At the meeting, the two sides agreed to explore ways in which the existing trade arrangement between the UK and the CARIFORUM States can continue, describing the initiative as “a technical exercise to ensure continuity in the preferential trading relationship, rather than an opportunity to renegotiate existing terms”.

For more information on exporting and export documentation, please contact us on 01603 729712 or email export@norfolkchamber.co.uk

The planning system in England is more complex, costly and difficult for business than it was 5 years ago, according to a major report published today (Monday) by the British Chambers of Commerce.

The BCC report says that five years after the introduction of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which was designed to make the system less complex and more accessible, businesses are experiencing too many delays and barriers to investment. 

The report finds that the government’s focus on new homes is leading to increased pressure on the availability of employment land and premises. A BCC survey of over 900 businesses across the country revealed that one in five firms are struggling to find the land and premises they need. 

The report says the government’s pre-occupation with housing at the expense of other land uses is also leading to localised tensions. New homes are being build adjacent to long-established businesses in towns and cities and causing serious problems, both for new residents and businesses. 

The report urges the government to review the NPPF to ensure that the needs of business are on an equal footing with other stakeholders.

Key recommendations include:

• Employment land and uses should be given equal priority to housing, so that people can access jobs and businesses have the space they need to grow and compete. 
• Where shops and offices have been converted to homes, councils should ensure there is an alternative supply of quality commercial office space available elsewhere.
• Where there is high demand for new housing and jobs, there should be intelligent use of the green belt to ensure local communities benefit from the delivery of new homes and infrastructure. 

Jonathan Cage, President of Norfolk Chamber and Managing Director of Create Consulting Engineers said:

“Access to affordable employment land and premises is essential for business innovation, expansion, and long-term competitiveness. Too many firms are now unable to find the land and premises they need.  We risk creating big problems for the future if we don’t get the right balance of jobs and homes. 

“Firms still face too many barriers, costs and delays as they negotiate the planning system. We need to find a way to make it work better, to provide the strategic certainty for businesses to make their own investment decisions and the freedom and flexibility they need to innovate, grow and compete globally.

“Planning for jobs and homes, together with up-front government investment in modern infrastructure, will give people better access to employment opportunities.   It will help businesses access a skilled workforce and provide the platform to compete globally.  The planning system must be looked into as part of plans to make the UK Brexit-ready.”

The British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with DHL, today (Thursday) publishes its latest Quarterly International Trade Outlook, based on survey and documentation data from UK exporters.

The Outlook shows considerable price pressures amongst exporting businesses – but exporters are absorbing the impact for the moment thanks to stronger sales and orders.

The BCC/DHL Trade Confidence Index, which measures the volume of trade documentation issued by accredited Chambers of Commerce for goods shipments, rose by 2.25% on the quarter, and stands at the third highest level on record.

The survey, based on the responses of over 3,300 exporters, shows that in the manufacturing sector, exporters are enjoying strong sales and orders in foreign markets, and are also reporting improvements in domestic sales and orders.

The results of the survey indicate the price pressure from the cost of raw materials is high across the board for exporters (86% in manufacturing, 42% in services). 68% of exporting manufacturers consider exchange rates as a concern to their business.

Exporters are also more likely to have tried recruiting in the last three months. However, firms across the UK economy are struggling to find the right skills, with 70% of manufacturers and 57% of services firms reporting recruitment difficulties.

The findings suggest that the fall in sterling is increasing price pressure for businesses across the economy, but particularly in manufacturing. However, many of those businesses that export have been able to offset the fall in sterling thanks to timely improvements in sales and orders, both overseas and at home.

Key findings from the report:

The BCC/DHL Trade Confidence Index, a measure of the volume of trade documentation issued nationally, rose by 2.25% on the quarter. The Index now stands at 126.51 – up 4% on Q3 2016 – and stands at the third highest level since records began in 2004

• 44% of exporting manufacturers and 30% of exporting service firms reported increased export sales in Q3. 41% of exporting manufacturers and 26% of exporting service firms reported increased export orders
• 41% of exporting manufacturers reported that domestic sales had increased, and 38% domestic orders increased in Q3 2017
• 39% of exporting manufacturers expect their prices to rise. Of these firms, 86% cited raw materials as a cost pressure
• 68% of exporting manufacturers cite exchange rates as a concern to their business, and 49% in the services sector
• 33% of exporting manufacturers and 31% of exporting services firms view inflation as a concern to their business

Commenting on the findings, Julie Austin, International Trade Manager for Norfolk Chamber said:

“While it’s encouraging to see many exporters reporting improved performance on the back of rising demand in key markets, including the Eurozone, price pressures remain a real cloud on the horizon for Norfolk firms.

“The depreciation of sterling has undoubtedly benefited some firms, but has ratcheted costs up significantly for others. Taken together with higher domestic costs facing businesses, a tipping point may soon be reached for some firms – with consequences for investment, recruitment and trade.

“Many Norfolk exporters are also being hampered by issues in the domestic business environment, most notably the widening gap between business skills needs and the pool of available labour. Trading businesses in some areas now say that there is a generalised labour shortage in their area, which could put a brake on their overseas activity if it is not addressed. This is a sobering reminder that the focus needs to be on the fundamentals here at home, as well as the high politics of Brexit and global trade policy.”

Ian Wilson, CEO DHL Express UK and Ireland, said:

“Now is an interesting time to be part of the UK’s export industry. Whilst it remains shrouded in uncertainty about what Brexit will look like and the implications for UK businesses large and small, those businesses are demonstrating a defiantly positive export performance.

“The world is now more connected than it ever has been, and this report shows that UK businesses are embracing this connectivity, despite the lack of clarity about what lies ahead. We must ensure that businesses remain able to meet international demand and, in doing so, keep the UK at the forefront of buyers’ minds when shopping cross border.”