First Intuition is hosting FREE bite-size leadership and management sessions. Each session will have a guest speaker providing insight as well as panellists from companies to discuss the hot topic.
This is a great opportunity to learn from our expert tutors on the topics your company is facing today as well as hearing first hand how companies have implemented the changes.
In this session we will consider leadership styles, techniques, methods and tools for success. Our panel will focus on attraction, development, retention and motivation of individuals and teams.
Commenting on the 2016 Queen’s Speech, Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber, said:
“Businesses will see the merit in many of the bills announced in the Queen’s Speech, particularly the commitment to high-speed broadband for all households and business premises. If implemented in full and at pace, this could go some way to improving the poor digital connectivity that far too many Norfolk firms face.
“Yet on most of the issues where the Norfolk business community is impatient for action, what’s needed are big decisions – not new legislation.
“Businesses want decisive action to boost aviation capacity, help companies plug skills gaps, and stop the steady drip of new taxes and costs piled on their bottom lines at a time of significant uncertainty.
“Firms want to see bold and decisive steps from government after the EU referendum – whatever the outcome – to help Britain get back to business.”
Norfolk Chamber has joined politicians and business leaders in reiterating the call for improved journey times between Norwich and London. A joint letter was sent to the Patrick McLoughlin, Secretary of State for Transport reminding him of the delivery promises made by the Chancellor and the Prime Minister ahead of last year’s election.
The main signatures on the letter were Chloe Smith MP and Mark Pendlington, who head up the Great Eastern Mainline Taskforce. Both Norfolk Chamber and Suffolk Chamber were party to the letter and key Norfolk Chamber members who also signed the letter were Bernard Matthews, Aviva, Howes Percival and Anglia Farmers.
Commenting on the much needed rail improvements, Jonathan Cage, President of the Norfolk Chamber said:
“Our region has suffered for far too long with the adverse effect of an inadequate rail service and our priority is to make sure that passengers begin to see the improvements they need, as soon as possible. Norfolk Chamber wants to see the delivery of a comprehensive package of infrastructure improvements by Network Rail; improved rolling stock from the new rail franchisee; and overall journey time improvements, which would see Norwich to London in 90 minutes.”
Today (Monday 23 May 2016) is the first day of the fieldwork period for the British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). It is the largest independent business survey in the UK and is used by the Bank of England and the Chancellor to plan the future of the UK economy. It is also closely watched by the International Monetary Fund.
Norfolk Chamber needs your input to ensure that the Norfolk business community has a clear voice on our local and regional economy. You can have your say by completing the QES online NOW, it takes less than 3 minutes.
The completion deadline for this survey is midnight on Monday 13 June 2016.
Overall, the figures for both the services and manufacturing sectors indicated continued growth. However, this remained static across many indicators, and slackened in others.
In the Norfolk manufacturing sector there continued to be a decline in both export sales and orders (-25) and (-33) respectively. Domestic sales moved out of negative territory from (-8) in Q4 2015 to (0) this quarter, however home orders fell further to (-9).
However, more Norfolk manufacturing firms grew their workforce in the last three months (+2), but those expecting to recruit in the next 3 months declined to (+10) from (+18) in Q4 2015.
The Norfolk service sector showed mixed results, with domestic sales falling (+21) and orders remaining static (+11); whilst export sales and orders increased (+9) and (+3) respectively.
In both the Norfolk manufacturing and service sectors reported less difficulties in recruiting staff.
Confidence in turnover and profitability for both services and manufacturing remains low by historical standards
From local standout to national champion: BCC Chamber Awards will put best of British business on the map.
Businesses from across the country are invited to take part and showcase their talents and achievements through a series of regional heats, culminating in the national final, which takes place in London on 24 November 2016.
Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber said:
“Norfolk companies can boast many areas of business excellence. The Chamber Awards allow us the opportunity to highlight some of our county’s many business achievements and I would encourage any business to showcase their achievements by entering these awards.”
Companies can enter seven categories, covering people development; customer care; business/education; export; and technology.
The Awards will be demonstrating the very best business, highlighting the positive contribution that businesses make to the UK economy and to society as a whole. The categories are:
The deadline for entries is Friday 24 June 2016, the regional winners will be announced on 19 September 2016, with the national winners being announced on 27 November 2016 at a glittering awards ceremony in London. To enter online click here
Ahead of the Chancellor’s Spring Budget on March 16, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is urging the government to avoid introducing new taxes, costs and obligations that could dent business confidence in a softening economic environment.
The business group urges the Chancellor to use his fourth fiscal event in 12 months to opt for a steady approach that gives businesses, individuals, and government itself the time needed to work through existing commitments and reforms. BCC seeks three commitments from the Chancellor at the Budget:
No new taxes on businesses or entrepreneurs for the remainder of this parliament. Pensions auto-enrolment, the National Living Wage, the apprenticeship levy, higher dividend taxes and other measures have significantly increased up-front burdens for business;
Deliver the long-overdue business rates reform by April 2017, and focus on resetting the valuation, collection, and setting of the rates, as opposed to changing who gets to keep and spend the revenue;
Address shortcomings at HMRC to support, not undermine, business growth. BCC wants HMRC focused on supporting businesses, particularly SMEs, and making compliance easier – rather than heavy – handed enforcement campaigns.
Dr Adam Marshall, BCC Acting Director General, said:
“In an increasingly uncertain economic environment, the Chancellor should avoid any and all moves that could damage business confidence. At a time when many businesses already face sharply higher costs and taxes, the Chancellor must avoid adding any new obligations on our firms.
“Ministers must also finally take action to ease the burden of business rates. Reform of the rates system is long overdue, and a source of uncertainty for companies everywhere.”
Evander Direct are delighted to announce our membership to the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce. As a small department operating within the larger Evander Glazing & Locks company, our aim is to raise awareness of the fantastic products and services available, and to market these directly to the customer. Evander Direct is a relatively new creation proving to be a real success within the home improvement industry – customers nationwide now have the opportunity to enhance and upgrade their windows, doors, garages and home security in an efficient, affordable and relaxed fashion, with no pushy sales tactics or confusing jargon to contend with. Evander Direct’s approach – which includes a free survey and no obligation quoting service, not to mention the high quality products and materials used – is one which is preferred by millions of homeowners across the UK.
Evander Glazing & Locks has been trading since 1984, but Evander Direct has only been active since late 2014. In that time, we have transformed the direct customer journey and have coordinated a complete overhaul of the website and marketing channels. Our small team is excited to be a part of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, and we look forward to the various events and networking opportunities as we continue to develop and grow.
The British Chambers of Commerce, have been working hard in Westminster following the recent exit vote in the EU Referendum. Following meetings with the Secretary of State for Business Innovation & Skills, Sajid Javid and the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Lord Price, Mr Javid and Lord Price have written asking for business views on three trade policy issues:
What your priorities are for any negotiations on our trading relationship with the EU and the rest of the World?
What support you can offer to help us to deliver our shared goals on trade, including – for example – any ideas you may have such as the secondment of staff, which a number of businesses have mentioned to us?
What further work can best help you to find and capitalise on new export opportunities and attract inward investment, led by UK Trade and Investment (UKTI)?
Norfolk Chamber will be raising the views of Norfolk businesses at a meeting in London next week, so your earliest response would be appreciated. Please send your comments to Nova Fairbank on email: nova.fairbank@norfolkchamber.co.uk by no later than lunchtime on Tuesday 12 July 2016.
Norwich City Council have released their latest economic barometer. The report highlighted:
Locally
The latest figures from StartUp Britain showed that in Norwich 521 new firms were created in the first 5 months of the year. This compares to 1,149 for the whole of 2015.
Chamber member, Howes Percival moved into their new £3m home in the Cathedral Quarter in Norwich
Norwich-based Lintott Controls Systems is returning to profit under new leadership and with ambitious growth plans
BHS will close down, with the likely loss of 11,000 jobs. The group has stores in both Norwich and Great Yarmouth. Expressions of interest have already been made by other retailers keen to move into the Norwich store
Nationally
UK’s trade deficit narrowed sharply in April after a record monthly jump in exports
UK business confidence feel to a 3 month low in May. A second month consecutive fall
The UK construction sector experienced another difficult month in May, with output growth easing to its weakest in 3 years
ONS figures show that UK manufacturing output grew at the fastest pace for nearly 4 years in April
Retail sales volumes rose by 0.9% – must stronger than expected
Her Majesty The Queen as patron of British Chamber of Commerce has sent us a special message for our 120th anniversary we are celebrating this year.
The message said: “The Queen was pleased to receive your kind message sent on behalf of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce on the occasion of your One-Hundred and Twentieth Anniversary, which is being marked at your Annual General Meeting.
“As Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, Her Majesty much appreciated your thoughtfulness in writing as you did and, in return, sends her warm good wishes to all concerned as you mark this notable anniversary.”
The official date of our anniversary is marked by our AGM on 7th October 2016, on this date in 1896 we were incorporated as Norwich Chamber of Commerce, before later changing to Norfolk Chamber of Commerce.
To commemorate our 120 years we have adedicatedwebpageto share the research undertaken.Take a tour of our President’s Board from 1896; read a brief history of Norfolk’s key industry sectors; find out more about the 120th celebrationevents; and find information on ourChamber Community Fund raising moneyto improve the opportunities and career options open to young people across the county.
A £6m grant fund has been launched to help more than 200 companies innovate in offshore renewable energy. The Score programme, which provides grants of up to £50,000 to support firms developing new technologies, is now accepting applications. The programme is open to SME’s in Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex. Those SMEs in the oil and gas sector, keen to diversify, are particularly encouraged to apply.
The programme is being delivered by OrbisEnergy innovation and incubation centre in Lowestoft. Johnathan Reynolds of Orbis Energy said: “This is more than double the amount of money in the previous Score programme, which supported over 50 companies, invested in 40projects and created 70 new jobs. This time we are confident that we can help over 200 businesses to develop their bright ideas and create an additional 100 jobs.”
Applicants must have no more than 250 employees and a 50 million euro turnover. The programme is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund. For more information on how to apply call: 01502 563 368 or email: score@orbisenergy.co.uk.
Commenting on the new grant programme, Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber said:
“Norfolk Chamber welcomes any support that will help Norfolk’s oil and gas sector, who are facing challenging times. This programme will ensure firms who want to innovate and diversify get the support and much needed investment to be able to drive forward and deliver growth in our region.”
Norfolk County Council has received funding from The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to run an E-Cargo Bike project within the Air Quality Management Zone in Norwich.
Electric Cargo bikes also known as E-Cargo bikes are electric bicycles designed and constructed specifically for transporting loads (e.g food items, hardware, consumer parcels).
They also boast considerably lower operating cost than vans and are nimble enough to provide a practical solution for small / medium local freight, including last mile delivery.
The project will allow businesses to try E-Cargo bikes for a fixed term, at no cost, businesses will receive support on all elements of how they can implement e-cargo bikes into their work.
This survey will help shape an e-cargo bike library for businesses in Norwich city centre and we hope that you make use of the E-Cargo Bike library when it is operational. The E-Cargo bikes will be available from July 2023 and the pilot will run at least until March 2025.
The survey is accessible through the link below and closes on 23.59 on Sunday 7th May