The Somerset Chamber of Commerce is set to benefit from the launch of a national brand awareness campaign, initiated and run by the British Chambers of Commerce and supported by the Accredited Chamber Network. The campaign will showcase the value in being a member of an Accredited Chamber of Commerce, which jointly represent over 104,000 business members nationwide, employing over five million people.
One of only five accredited Chambers in the South West, the Somerset Chamber joined the Accredited Chamber Network in 2011 and has continued to grow since then. With the inclusion of thirteen affiliated Town Chambers, it now represents over 2,500 Somerset businesses.
Rupert Cox, CEO of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce, says, “The Somerset Chamber is delighted to support this national awareness campaign. We know that Chamber membership is a real asset to any business and can deliver tangible support as a partner in business in these tough trading times.
“Our accreditation to the British Chambers of Commerce recognises that we run our own business efficiently and effectively, with the highest standards of quality and performance. Being part of the Accredited Network enables the views of Somerset businesses to be heard within government; opens up new business opportunities in local, national and international markets; and enables the Somerset Chamber of Commerce to provide improved critical business advice, services and skills development to local businesses.”
Accredited Chambers of Commerce offer help and advice for business owners – whether that’s how to export to new markets overseas, hosting networking events, or providing essential services to help entrepreneurs run their businesses day to day.
Dr Adam Marshall, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), says, “Being a member of a local Chamber of Commerce allows businesses of all sizes and from within all sectors stay well connected at both a local and national level. Chambers are unique, as they act as a front door in towns and cities in every part of the UK for the business community. There are no other bodies that do what Chambers do. Their services range from day to day support on how to run a business, to leading global trade missions to countries across the world that help members find new markets for their goods and services. Accredited Chambers of Commerce have the added support of being a part of the British Chambers of Commerce, giving businesses the chance to have their views represented at the highest level of government.
“We know that private sector businesses are at the heart of the British economy, driving growth and creating jobs and wealth. But with a little added support, they can go even further to transform their business into a global success story. Through this campaign we hope to raise awareness of the valuable work being carried out by Chambers of Commerce week in, week out, on behalf of the dynamic and hard working companies that they represent. With more than 100,000 like-minded members nationwide, there has never been a better time for businesses to join their local Chamber.”
The Somerset Chamber of Commerce represents and works collaboratively with the Somerset business community to encourage strong, sustainable and creative alliances that promote members’ businesses, raise the profile of the county, and help to lobby for greater influence for Somerset at all levels of government. Its annual Somerset in Business Conference takes place on Friday 17 May and will focus on the lucrative opportunities on offer for Somerset businesses through export markets. More information can be found on www.somerset-chamber.co.uk