Campaign for Business
Campaign for Business is the Chamber’s blueprint for business growth in Greater Manchester.
Originally launched ahead of the 2024 Mayoral Election and subsequently updated ahead of the 2024 General Election, Campaign for Business was shaped through the Chamber’s consultation work with its members and the wider business community in GM, and through intelligence gathered via the Local Skills Improvement Plan project.
Emma Holt, Chamber President, said: “Our Campaign for Business document is a great summary of the key issues facing businesses at present as well as setting out practical ways that these can be addressed. Whilst some of these can only, realistically, be resolved at a national level, many should now be able to be dealt with locally by the Mayor through the key elements of the new Trailblazer Devolution Deal.
“We also look at the potential from new initiatives coming over the next year or so around the GM Investment Zone, Atom Valley and ID Manchester and highlight ways that the benefits from innovation can be spread widely across all GM not just those areas and businesses nearest these activities.
“This campaign will evolve throughout the year to reflect current issues, progress and new challenges as they arise and we intend on working closely with businesses to make sure that we reflect their views accurately to the key decision makers at a local or national level.”
Campaign for Business Headlines
Trade
Many GM businesses are struggling to enter export markets and/or expand their current exports - this trend is due to the continuing impact of Brexit and must be addressed as a priority. We need to alleviate the heavy compliance, administrative burden and the increased costs associated with international trade.
Connectivity
When it comes to infrastructure projects, too often in recent years, the wrong decisions have been made for the wrong reasons, and we have gone backwards in relation to other countries. It is vital that the movement of goods, people and data is made easier, more sustainable and recognises the long-term economic benefits.
Net Zero
The journey to net zero is not only a requirement for UK businesses, but also an opportunity to develop, adopt and share world-leading net zero technologies. With a 2038 net zero target, it’s more important than ever for GM businesses to start their sustainability journey - and we’re here to support them.
Skills
The UK government has set an ambition for a “high skill, high wage” economy, following years of low wage growth and low productivity. This ambition needs clear and concrete action that includes the development of a pipeline of skilled workers that provides opportunities for all.
Business Conditions
Businesses are facing an increasingly difficult time with business rates, taxation, rises in National Insurance and the Minimum and Living Wage. The Chamber is here to represent businesses at a local and national level to improve business conditions, help you to grow sustainably and to facilitate successful overseas trading.
Downloads
Download the latest reports and resources to share with your internal and external stakeholders.
Campaign for Business
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Use your Voice
If you've got something to say, or you need some support - then let us know. The Chamber is here to represent the voice of business, and the more feedback we have, the louder that voice can be.