Prosper Spring

WELCOME
As the economy continues to struggle, the
Chamber’s focus will always be on supporting
our members and fighting for your concerns
says Sarah Moorhouse, CEO of the Black Country Chamber
As we end the first quarter of 2023, green
shoots are emerging around us following a
long, cold winter. The extent to which the
usual ‘green shoots’ metaphor can be
attributed to the economy remains unclear,
however.
Real concern exists that long-promised
investment into the region might not be
delivered. The principal concern in this
regard are announcements around the
future of HS2; their tone suggests that we
are in danger of being overlooked.
During his Spring Budget statement, the
Chancellor opened by saying that the UK
economy is not in a technical recession and
market reaction, although mixed, hasn’t
seen the turmoil nor disruption which
followed last Autumn’s calamitous financial
statement.
But as a Budget designed firmly to
support the growth agenda and get people
back to work, there was little in the way of
help in tackling the upfront costs of doing
business and, while the move towards
energy security is the right one, local firms
will struggle to pay energy costs from April
onwards.
Technicalities aside, the trading climate
continues to be tough. Therefore, any
announcements which help address the
longstanding skills shortages will be
welcome news for many.
Indeed, when I talk to members,
‘people’, the skills pipeline, and acquiring
and retaining talent are important factors in
boosting productivity and innovation.
Indeed, it was a central tenant of our This is
the Black Country initiative, which as it
draws to a close continues to be a focus of
the Chamber’s work moving forward as we
fly the flag as the region’s economic voice.
Equally important is remaining relevant
to clients, customers and the marketplace,
if businesses are to survive and thrive.
Over the coming weeks we’ll be bringing
members exciting news of additions to our
membership packages and further news on
our priorities to support the business
communities across Dudley, Sandwell,
Walsall and Wolverhampton.
‘‘
When I talk to members, ‘people’, the
skills pipeline, and acquiring and
retaining talent are important factors in
boosting productivity and innovation.
Indeed, it was a central tenant of our
This is the Black Country initiative
‘‘
PROSPER SPRING 2023
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