Over a third of SMEs (35%) say they are actively using AI technology, up from 25% in 2024 – according to research by the British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with Intuit, the global financial technology platform. The research, featured in a new report, also shows appetite for more...
Read moreResponding to the latest interest rate decision by the Bank of England, David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Today’s decision to hold interest rates at 4% was widely expected, especially after yesterday’s figures confirmed that inflation remains stubbornly high. “A further hold aligns...
Read moreThe BCC is pleased to announce that Michael Hayman MBE DL, has been appointed to its board as an independent member. Michael, who is currently the UK Chair for strategic communications consultancy Bully Pulpit International, was chosen after an extensive selection process carried out by the Nominations Committee. He...
Read moreReacting to the WTO’s publication of its World Trade Report for 2025, William Bain, BCC Head of Trade Policy, said: “This report is a call to action for business and policymakers worldwide to ensure we realise the full benefits of AI in boosting global trade, productivity and skills. “It...
Read moreReacting to the latest inflation data published by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Businesses will be worried by inflation holding at 3.8% at a time when cost pressures continue to bite, especially on wages. The BCC’s latest economic forecast expects...
Read moreResponding to the latest labour market data published by the ONS this morning, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The ongoing impact of business cost pressures, most notably from the national insurance hike, continues to hit the labour market. “Unemployment remains...
Read moreCommenting on the latest ONS trade data, BCC Head of Trade Policy, William Bain, said: “The first month of reduced automotive tariffs has had a positive effect on US exports alongside more certainty on the outlook for other manufactured goods sectors. “But far more work is needed on US...
Read moreResponding to the latest GDP data published by the ONS this morning, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Today’s data shows the UK economy had a subdued summer, with limited growth in the three months to July, and 0% in the month alone. “The...
Read moreThe latest British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) economic forecast has upgraded growth expectations for 2025. But overall, the outlook remains subdued. The forecast shows: UK Economic Outlook The UK economy is expected to grow by 1.3% in 2025, revised up from the previous forecast of 1.1%. This upgrade reflects...
Read moreResponding to today’s speech by EU Relations Minister, Nick Thomas-Symonds – William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “A strong agri-food deal will remove costs, red tape and delays for UK businesses trading in food and plant products with the European Union. “Firms...
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