Today marks the launch of our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) and we need your feedback!  Every three months, all 52 UK Chambers’ of Commerce roll out the QES, which is the longest running independent survey of business sentiment, having started life in 1989.

QES provides a measure of the levels of business confidence and outlook and is widely acknowledged by the likes of the Bank of England as a really useful indicator of how the economy is performing.   The dust has settled on the announcements made in the Autumn Budget but as we head through 2025, how are your levels of business confidence?  During 2024, QES responses picked up a slowdown in business confidence, by way of investment in plant, machinery, equipment and staff training.   We’ve heard from businesses concerned by a continual increase in the actual cost of doing business but what’s your outlook?

Survey responses can be completed anonymously, and results are compiled and shared with the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), who will publish an overall summary of national results.  Here at Staffordshire Chambers’, we’ll be analysing results in the county and making both regional and national comparisons.

The QES comprises just 26 questions, most of which have a simple tick box response.  It takes little more than 60 seconds to complete and by taking part, you’ll help to paint a picture of local and national economic performance.  We’re keen for QES responses to be reflective of a wide mix of business sectors and business sizes.  Please spare us a minute of your time. Your response can be really valuable. Click here to open QES – Q1, 2025:

In the coming weeks, we’re meeting with some of our local Members of Parliament: 

·                  14.02.25. – David Williams, MP for Stoke-on-Trent North.

·                  28.02.25. – Leigh Ingham, MP for Stafford.

·                  20.03.25. – Allison Gardner, MP for Stoke-on-Trent South  

Watch this space for details of further ‘Meet the MP’ meetings.

Any business can sit down with their respective MP but as the voice of our members, we hold regular meetings with all of our MP and having a face-to-face discussion with a broad mix of business sectors opens up the conversation and allows our elected politicians to get a clear understanding of the local picture.  It’s a perfect opportunity to join your fellow members in raising the key issues affecting your business and you can book your place through the events page of our website.

Our ‘Meet the MP’ meetings are open to Chamber members only and advanced booking is essential.