The latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) from the British Chambers of Commerce makes for sober reading. Rising operational costs, fuelled by the recent National Insurance hike, have added fresh pressure to already stretched businesses.
Confidence across the UK remains cautious, with many companies putting investment decisions on hold and reporting ongoing recruitment challenges. The national outlook, in short, remains fragile.
According to the survey, responses from over 4,500 businesses (93% of them SMEs) reveal that just 49% expect turnover to increase over the next 12 months, one of the lowest readings since late 2022. Only 32% have seen domestic sales growth recently. Meanwhile, 56% cited tax (driven largely by the NI rise) as their top concern and 52% remain worried about inflation.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, summarised the mood by commenting: “The rising cost of doing business means confidence levels remain at their lowest levels since 2022.”
But here in Bedfordshire, we’re seeing a more balanced picture, one that reflects resilience, community spirit and a strong appetite to move forward.
The most recent feedback from our own Chamber members paints a refreshingly optimistic view of the local landscape. While businesses aren’t immune to national and global headwinds, there is a shared sense of purpose and momentum that stands in marked contrast to some of the more downbeat national headlines.
Local strengths in a shifting economy
Our conversations with members – whether through events, consultations or our latest survey – reveal a clear throughline: businesses continue to value the power of meaningful connections. In a climate of rising uncertainty, peer support, trusted partnerships and collaborative learning are not just welcome, they’re essential.
For many, the Chamber serves as both a sounding board and a springboard: a place to gain clarity on complex issues, share experiences, and identify real-world opportunities for growth.
We hear regularly from members who have made lasting connections, accessed new opportunities and increased their visibility through Chamber activities. It’s clear that while the economic landscape may be volatile, the foundations of our local business community remain strong.
Local confidence in a nationally fragile landscape
But here in Bedfordshire, we’re seeing a more balanced picture, one that reflects resilience, community spirit and a strong appetite to move forward.
The most recent feedback from our own Chamber members paints a refreshingly optimistic view of the local landscape. While businesses aren’t immune to national and global headwinds, there is a shared sense of purpose and momentum that stands in marked contrast to some of the more downbeat national headlines.
Local strengths in a shifting economy
Our conversations with members – whether through events, consultations or our latest survey – reveal a clear throughline: businesses continue to value the power of meaningful connections. In a climate of rising uncertainty, peer support, trusted partnerships and collaborative learning are not just welcome, they’re essential.
For many, the Chamber serves as both a sounding board and a springboard: a place to gain clarity on complex issues, share experiences, and identify real-world opportunities for growth.
We hear regularly from members who have made lasting connections, accessed new opportunities and increased their visibility through Chamber activities. It’s clear that while the economic landscape may be volatile, the foundations of our local business community remain strong.
At a time when national surveys reflect growing caution, our member feedback shows clear enthusiasm for continuing to invest in relationships, knowledge and support structures that make a real difference day to day.
What we’ve heard is that businesses want to be part of something that moves them forward. Whether it’s networking, skills development, profile raising, or practical advice, they are actively seeking ways to stay connected and competitive.
And that’s exactly where the Bedfordshire Chamber delivers. Our team are professional and responsive but have the ability to understand the pressures businesses are under and to offer practical solutions with energy and empathy.
A focus on what matters most
The mood amongst our members is not one of denial about economic reality, it’s one of proactive planning and positive action. Businesses are focused on growth, visibility and making the most of every opportunity that exists in the region.
We’re proud to support this ambition through a wide range of services, from our regular networking events, expert webinars, media promotion and export support member-to-member referrals. But perhaps even more important is the reassurance that comes from knowing you’re not facing today’s challenges alone.
This is a business community that leans in, lifts each other up, and creates space for progress, no matter what the national headlines might say.
Of course, we know there’s always more work to do. We continue to listen, refine and evolve our offer in line with what matters most to our members. We’re strengthening sector representation, reviewing how we support new members from day one, and exploring fresh ways to connect people more effectively.
We are also feeding our members’ concerns directly into the heart of the British Chambers of Commerce lobbying work – amplifying the voice of Bedfordshire businesses on issues from tax and funding to infrastructure and skills.
It’s vital that businesses feel both heard and represented, especially at a time when government support is under scrutiny and economic decisions carry enormous weight.
So, while the national story may feel uncertain, here in Bedfordshire we’re writing a different kind of chapter. One built on shared knowledge, shared ambition and shared resilience.
The real strength of our region doesn’t lie in economic forecasts or government policy, it lies in the energy, passion and ingenuity of our businesses. And that’s something we are proud to champion every single day.
If you’re a member of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, thank you for being part of this journey. If you’re not yet with us, there has never been a better time to join.
Let’s keep moving forward together.
By Justin Richardson
CEO Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce
To learn more about joining the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, visit their website or call 01582 522448.
