Executive Alliance lifts off in bid to rehome Vulcan bomber and inspire a new generation of engineer
The charity behind the iconic Avro Vulcan XH558 has launched a new fundraising initiative for the business community, in a bid to secure sponsorship for a new hangar and educational facility in Doncaster. The Vulcan to the Sky Trust (VTST) has created the ‘Vulcan 558 Executive Alliance’ – a membership group open to businesses from across the UK. The group’s support will help fund the build of the new Vulcan Experience at Doncaster Sheffield Airport, where XH558 will be housed. Five businesses have already
Chamber CEO urges support for local retail on reopening
Pubs, restaurants, gyms and non-essential shops are among the businesses that were allowed to reopen yesterday, in a major step of easing lockdown measures. Doncaster Chamber Chief Executive Dan Fell said, “The reopening of businesses is a long-awaited relief for many business owners whose doors have been closed for months. They have heavily invested in and been busy making preparations to make sure their sites are Covid-safe. “Although a full return to the old normal still seems a long way off, the
Four in Ten UK Exporters Reporting Decreased Sales in Q1 2021
Balance of UK firms reporting increased export sales drops, despite already being at historically low levels. Hospitality firms, caterers, retailers and wholesalers all most likely to report decreased sales. Advance bookings and export orders show no signs of improvement, indicating that recovery is distant The British Chambers of Commerce’s Trade Confidence Outlook for Q1, released today, has revealed the stark issues facing UK exporters in the first months of this year. The survey of more than
Twice weekly rapid testing to be available to everyone in England
Everyone in England will be able to access free, regular, rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) testing from 9 April, the government has announced.Everyone in England, including those without symptoms, will be able to take a free rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) test twice a weekAlongside vaccine rollout, regular testing is at the heart of plans to reopen society and the economy, helping to suppress and control the spread of variantsUpdates will be made to the NHS COVID-19 app in England to coincide with the universal
Newly announced Re-start grants to be introduced from April 2021
Grants of up to £6,000 are available for eligible Doncaster businesses from April 2021 As part of the Chancellor's Budget announcement on 3 March 2021, the Government provided details of the Restart Grant scheme to help support non-essential retail, hospitality, accommodation, leisure, personal care and gym businesses in England. This one off grant will be made available to eligible businesses from April 2021 in order to help them reopen safely as lock down restrictions are eased. Grants of up to £6,000
Doncaster Chamber respond to lockdown easing and COVID-19 policy announcements
Doncaster Chamber has reacted to further easing of lockdown, testing and other measures announced by the Government to balance economic reopening whilst managing COVID-19 transmission. Business Director Jade Dyer, said, “Yesterday’s news on regular testing, vaccine certification, and border policy give conceptual insight into how the economy may be able to reopen and stay open safely. Many businesses will be breathing a sigh of relief to reopen on April 12, but the route back to a full reopening of the
BCC reacts to Prime Minister’s announcement on roadmap out of lockdown
Responding to the news that phase 2 of the roadmap out of lockdown for England will go ahead on April 12, Claire Walker, Co-Executive Director of the BCC, said: “This is great news. Many firms will be breathing a huge sigh of relief that they will soon be able to reopen their doors to customers. The last year has taken a heavy toll on firms across the country and they will be counting down the hours until they can begin trading and rebuilding their businesses. “However, the route back to a full
Stamp Duty Land Tax Series - Exploring your potential stamp duty refund further
So far in this series I have explained the basics of what stamp duty land tax (SDLT) is and why it exists. Effective 1st April 2021 a second 2% surcharge has been added to purchases where the new owner lives outside the UK. This is in addition to the 3% surcharge levied on properties which are not the purchasers principle primary residence. The 37 reliefs were originally introduced to account for exceptions to aspects of properties where the calculation is unfair or clearly should not relate to all
Businesses fighting for survival but vaccine roll-out brings hope for a route out of crisis
The Doncaster Business Insight Survey (DBI), part of the British Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Economic Survey QES and the UK’s largest independent survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth, found that business conditions remained historically poor in the first quarter of 2021 as the third lockdown severely limited activity. However, findings revealed that business confidence has been boosted in the first three months of 2021 amid the strong vaccine roll-out and the
Doncaster Chamber partners with non-profit to challenge career stereotypes
Doncaster Chamber has partnered with Inspiring the Future to support children in Doncaster, share career stories and challenge stereotypes Did you know that children as young as six have already formed stereotypes about what jobs they can and can’t do based on their gender and social economic backgrounds? Research, however, shows that if children have the opportunity to talk to volunteers from the world of work via in-school activities it can have a significant impact on their motivation, aspirations, and
Doncaster Chamber seeks businesses to come and inspire the next generation of talent
Raising the profile of employment opportunities in Doncaster: despite the recent challenges from the pandemic, Doncaster Chamber wants to showcase the depth and diversity of careers that are still available in Doncaster. Doncaster Chamber are holding a virtual careers fair for young people in Doncaster aged 14+ and are keen for local businesses to get involved. Like most large scale events scheduled to take place, since the onset of the pandemic, the flagship careers event has been forced to pivot and go
Creation of Memorial Wood for COVID-19 victims
Rotary and Doncaster Chamber of Commerce News Release- March 2021 The Rotary Clubs of Doncaster are about to launch a campaign on Facebook, inviting volunteers to work with us in creating a Memorial Wood in memory of all those in our community who have lost their lives due to Covid-19. To get things moving we have agreed with Doncaster Council a suitable location in Doncaster and have links with the Conservation Volunteers to provide sapling trees free of charge. The Rotary clubs of Doncaster will give
Doncaster school governance opportunities
Astrea Academy Trust are looking for volunteers to join the governing committees of four primary schools in the Doncaster area. How do our committee members make a difference and support the vision for the school? Our local committees provide a forum for support and challenge to the Principals. Through these, they hold the school’s leadership to account for school improvement and meeting the ambitions of the Trust. Local committees are particularly important in helping the school to understand and
Doncaster Chamber comments on £860m South Yorkshire Renewal fund
The proposed £860m “new deal” for South Yorkshire regeneration signals that the region is open for business Through devolution, the Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) in South Yorkshire has been granted some borrowing powers and is set to use them to create a ground-breaking stimulus, worth up to £860m, to revitalise South Yorkshire’s economy and transform the region. It will invest hundreds of millions into schemes to protect, create and attract thousands of jobs, train workers and apprentices, back
Doncaster Business Awards: Resilience celebrated in a year like no other as winners revealed
Event pivots like so many who persevered and performed through the pandemic Excellence despite adversity was celebrated at the Doncaster Business Awards, sponsored by Doncaster College and University Centre, on Friday 12 March. Forced to pivot and go digital, a bespoke platform was created to mirror as much of the calendar highlight as possible, and it didn’t disappoint. Welcome to Yorkshire CEO James Mason kept a Zoom room of finalists enthralled as an online audience looked on, with special recognition
£20 million SME Brexit Support Fund opens for applications
The fund will help smaller businesses with changes to trade rules with the EU. Smaller businesses can today (15 March 2021) apply for grants of up to £2,000 to help them adapt to new customs and tax rules when trading with the EU. The £20 million SME Brexit Support Fund enables traders to access practical support, including training for new customs, rules of origin and VAT processes. Katherine Green and Sophie Dean, Directors General, Borders and Trade, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), said: "We recognise
New full and partially funded Business Academy courses
Doncaster Chamber have extended their Business Academy courses and are pleased to introduce three new sales and marketing courses. Covid-19 Marketing Transformation Programme - 80% FundedBenchmark the effectiveness of your Company’s marketing activityTake immediate steps to ensure that the business has enough cash to survive the crisisReview and identify what Marketing Activities could be taken for ‘Free’Strategically reviewing the range of the company’s products and servicesSetting flexible but
Celebrating Doncaster’s women in business on International Women’s Day
Doncaster Chamber’s Business Director calls on businesswomen across the region to celebrate their achievements and encourage other women to take on the challenge Doncaster Chamber Business Director Jade Dyer believes women in business have a lot to be proud of and encourages other women to share their experiences to encourage more women to take on the challenge. The business owner and senior leader said, “Doncaster’s business community is full of women who continue to be pioneers in championing the
Free rapid tests for all businesses for regular workplace testing
All businesses in England are now able to sign up to the government’s free COVID-19 workplace testing programme.Workplace testing now available to all businesses, including those with fewer than 50 employeesBusiness encouraged to register interest by 31 March to access free workplace testingRegular testing will be a vital part of the government’s roadmap to cautiously ease restrictions As part of the government’s roadmap to cautiously lift restrictions, businesses of all sizes, including those with fewer
Doncaster Chamber strengthens team with new appointments
The Chamber refreshes its top team ahead of a move to new premises Doncaster Chamber has appointed Suzy Broadhead as Education Director to head up its education work through Opportunities Doncaster and promoted Jade Dyer to Business Director to lead the Chamber’s membership and commercial activity. Adrian Platts has been promoted to a new role as Head of International Trade. Kelli Parnham has also joined the Chamber as Business Support Manager to oversee the organisation’s support for new start
Doncaster Chamber responds to March 2021 Budget
Job retention and self-employment income support schemes extended but Sheffield City Region misses out on Freeport. In his Spring Budget today, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced immediate support to help struggling businesses across the UK but delivered a blow for the region as the Sheffield City Region Freeport bid was unsuccessful. Successful bids were awarded to East Midlands Airport, Felixstowe, Humber, Liverpool City Region, Plymouth, Solent, Thames and Teesside. The Freeports are said to unlock
BCC reacts to news of extension to the Job Retention Scheme
Responding to an announcement by The Treasury that the Job Retention Scheme will be extended until the end of September, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the BCC, said: “The extension of the furlough scheme shows that the Chancellor has listened to our business communities. Many firms will be breathing a huge sigh of relief, particularly those businesses that are still closed or facing reduced demand due to Covid-19 restrictions. “The furlough scheme has been a lifeline for companies all across
Stamp Duty Land Tax Series - Some finer detail on your potential stamp duty refund
Last time we looked at the stamp duty land tax (SDLT) situation from an overall perspective. Every property sold in the UK for more than £40,000 has to be reported to HMRC to assess any SDLT payable and whether payment is due or has been made. We looked at some examples of sales at different price levels and how SDLT is calculated during the current holiday and then how it will be calculated when things revert back to normal. The holiday exempts SDLT from any properties purchased for less than £500,000
ESC Global Ltd Launches Skin Friendly Hand and Surface Santisers
When soap and water is not available the government have stressed it is still important to regularly clean hands whilst away from home. Our newly available Green Aquacare Shield hand sanitiser from ESC Global Ltd can assist in helping to keep you and your colleagues, family and friends as clean and safe as possible throughout the COVID 19 pandemic. The government have also suggested we clean high traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms more frequently in a bid to reduce the spread of COVID-19 which
Chamber responds to roadmap for lifting lockdown
Earlier this week (Monday 22 February) Boris Johnson addressed the commons to announce the planned roadmap to easing lockdown restrictions. The news is of critical importance to Doncaster’s economy and business community. The Prime Minister stressed that each stage of a new 4-stage plan will be driven by “data not “dates”. The PM says there will be “at least” five weeks between each of the four steps. Doncaster Chamber Chief Executive Dan Fell said, “The roadmap to recovery gives businesses hope that this
Chambers react to latest GDP figures
Commenting on the latest GDP figures published today by the ONS, BCC Head of Economics, Suren Thiru, said: “The UK economy recorded stronger than expected growth in the final quarter of 2020 as the squeeze on output from the November lockdown was more than offset by a temporary boost from the release of pent-up demand from the subsequent easing in restrictions, increased activity from the coronavirus testing schemes and Brexit stockpiling. “Despite avoiding a double-dip recession, with output still
BCC Brexit survey: Half of UK exporters report difficulties adapting to changes relating to EU
Results from the first major business survey for 2021 by the British Chambers of Commerce on Brexit found that half (49%) of exporters are facing difficulties in adapting to the changes in the trade of goods following the ratification of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) on 1 January 2021. The survey Fieldwork for the survey, which received 1,000 responses, mainly from SMEs, was carried out between 18 and 31 January 2021. Nearly half (47%) of respondents exported goods or
BCC welcomes new Brexit support fund for SMEs
Commenting on the announcement of the fund, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the BCC, said: “This is a welcome first step in dealing with some of the major issues that small businesses trading with the EU are facing. With their finances already under a significant squeeze firms, particularly those which export, are inevitably encountering difficulties in adapting to the complexities of the new arrangements. “It is now crucial that the grants provide sufficient funds to make a real difference and the
Government announces £20 million SME Brexit Support Fund
The £20 million SME Brexit Support Fund will help small businesses with changes to trade rules with the EU. – Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster announces £20 million SME Brexit Support Fund to help small businesses with changes to trade rules with the EU; – Traders will be able to apply for a grant of up to £2,000 to pay for practical support for importing and exporting; – Fund will help businesses to prepare for the implementation of import controls which come into force from April and July. Today
Government boost to rapid workplace testing
New government drive to increase workplace testing in sectors open during lockdown, to detect coronavirus (COVID-19) in people who are not showing symptomsGovernment departments tasked with ensuring targeted, rapid testing is set up in all key workplaces to ensure vital public and economic services can continueCriteria for joining the workplace testing programme is reduced to businesses with more than 50 employees, boosting the availability of rapid testing further Cabinet ministers have been tasked to
National Apprenticeships Week 2021: Build the Future
In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week we're urging employers to look at the benefits of hiring apprentices to develop a skilled and qualified workforce. Commenting on this year's Apprenticeship Week, Matthew Lawrie, Business and Education Adviser at Doncaster Chamber said: "Apprenticeships are a real investment for the future. Apprentices can be any age - from school leavers and graduates to individuals who may be looking for a career change, so the opportunities are wide and varied. Businesses
Business leaders urge Government to back the Freeport
Business leaders from across Yorkshire have provided their backing to a South Yorkshire Freeport bid after the UK Government announced its plans to create freeports around the country. Sea, air and rail ports in England were invited to bid for Freeport status before the end of 2020, with the Doncaster Sheffield Airport bid amongst the sites vying for freeport status. With bids now in, the Doncaster Chamber is urging the government to recognise the ambition that characterises the bid and the region, and
Have your say: COVID-19 Business Impact Survey
Business Doncaster and Doncaster Chamber want to do everything possible to support businesses particularly in the retail, leisure and hospitality sector during this challenging time. We are interested in finding out your views on the current challenges your business has and what your plans are for the future when the time comes to reopen. This will enable us to also prepare and offer the right support and work with you as the town moves into recovery. Last year was incredibly challenging and the start of
SMEs across UK voice support for easier transatlantic trade
New report shows opportunities and challenges of trade with US for small businessesSMEs across UK reveal battle with high costs and red tape to sell in the American marketSmall businesses would welcome UK-US FTA, resolution of trade disputes, and continued government support Opportunities to help small businesses across the UK overcome barriers to transatlantic trade and growth have been outlined in a new report produced by leading US-UK trade association BritishAmerican Business (BAB). BAB, in
Mind the (skills) gap: Doncaster businesses commit to prepare young people for the world of work
Over 100 businesses have pledged to support the Doncaster Promise – a commitment to work with schools and young people across Doncaster to raise careers awareness and get them better prepared for work in a post-pandemic world. Comparing the latest quarter, September-November 2020, with the pre-pandemic quarter of January-March 2020, the Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) January 2021 labour market overview reports: Unemployment for young people has increased by 68,000, a 13% increase.The unemployment
BCC/Totaljobs: Increase in businesses attempting to recruit in Q4 despite November lockdown
Results from the British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Recruitment Outlook (QRO), in partnership with Totaljobs, found that while there was a modest improvement in the overall number of businesses attempting to recruit in Q4, sectoral disparities remain. Fieldwork for the survey was carried out between 2 and 26 November 2020, during the second lockdown. It found that: 41% of firms attempted to recruit in Q4, up slightly from 37% in Q3, but this remains below pre-pandemic levels (55% in Q1
Levelling Up Four Times Harder Reports Think Tank Centre for Cities
The Government’s promise to ‘level up’ by reducing regional economic disparities will be almost four times harder as a result of the pandemic, according to one report, as agenda is criticised as a slogan without substance.Think tank Centre for Cities’ annual study of the UK’s major urban areas found that hundreds of thousands of unemployed people in towns and cities across the country need to find secure, well-paid jobs to improve their region’s overall economic prospects. Cities and large towns went into
Stamp Duty Land Tax Series - Bought a property recently? Would You Like a Stamp Duty Refund?
When you purchase a property in the UK there is stamp duty payable to HMRC. Rates are published on their website and, on the face of things, it seems a simple and easy calculation followed by the painful payment process.What you are probably unaware of is that there are a number of reliefs which can be claimed which will reduce the stamp duty burden. Known officially as stamp duty land tax (SDLT) this is a tax which was introduced by the government in December 2003. Current rates, valid until 31 March,
Act now to keep your business moving: resources advice and guidance
The EU remains our nearest and biggest market. The UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement is now the framework within which we will do business together. To help you navigate the new rules and maximise opportunities, we have collated resources and guidance to support businesses trade with the EU. Brexit checker Use the Brexit checker to get a personalised list of actions for you, your business and your family.Video explainers The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has launched
Act now to keep your business moving in 2021
Firms urged to ensure they have ticked off checklist of 6 key actions, as UK begins its new start outside of the EUBusiness Minister warns “Business is changing: you must not delay any further”department launches series of on demand videos - on subjects ranging from trade to data - to help companies understand the new rules As the UK embarks on its new start as an independent trading nation, Business Minister Paul Scully has set out 6 key actions businesses must take to ensure they can seize all the
BCC responds to ONS GDP figures for November
Commenting on GDP figures for November 2020 published today by the ONS, BCC Head of Economics Suren Thiru said: “The latest figures highlight the continued damage being done to the UK economy by coronavirus. “The decline in output in November was largely driven by the drag on activity from the second lockdown, with consumer-focused services firms, who are most exposed to lockdown restrictions, enduring a particularly difficult month. “With any post-lockdown rally in output in
Have you nominated your business hero?
Since the COVID-19 emergency began, Doncaster Chamber of Commerce has heard of many fantastic efforts from businesses and individuals from all over the region who have made a significant contribution to the Doncaster community. With just over two weeks to nominate your Business Hero, the team at the Chamber are encouraging everyone to get involved and help celebrate the endeavours and outstanding contribution of the region’s business community and professionals - those who have gone the extra mile to help
New requirements for haulier firms
New government policy now requires drivers to have a negative Covid test before travelling to ports. Costs of the tests will be met by government and businesses are encouraged to go through their local authority for the necessary equipment. BEIS Minister Scully has written a letter to haulier firms outlining the new restrictions and providing guidance:Dear Business, I am writing to ask for your assistance in ensuring that hauliers can move steadily across the border. The requirement for hauliers planning
The promise of a better future: local businesses putting learners of all ages at the heart of COVID recovery
As unemployment in the region soars, Doncaster Chamber encourages local businesses to partner with education providers to help boost employment prospects for learners of all ages and drive economic growth. Opportunities Doncaster, Doncaster Chamber’s education arm, are relaunching the Doncaster Promise: a commitment between businesses and education to work in partnership to ensure learners of all ages are equipped with the skills and experience they need to be successful in the workforce. The Promise aims
Latest Quarterly Economic Survey results showed fragile recovery prior to lockdown 3 being announced
The Quarterly Economic Survey, run by the British Chambers, is the country’s biggest and longest running private sector survey which acts as an economic indicator, often highlighting big changes in the economy long before other surveys or other official statistics. It is used by the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee and other key stakeholders who use it as a key benchmark when setting fiscal policy.Prior to lockdown 3 being announced, Doncaster’s economy had being showing weak signs of recovery
Plea for help for Doncaster’s struggling hospitality businesses
Doncaster Chamber and Business Doncaster have launched a campaign calling on the Government to provide more support for hospitality businesses after devastating news that South Yorkshire will remain in Tier 3 Under Tier 3 restrictions, hospitality settings must close except for takeaway, delivery and click and collect services. As venues struggle to cope with mounting rent, rates and staffing costs, more financial support is needed to avoid more closures. In the video, owners of Doncaster’s
Doncaster Business Awards 2020/21 to be a ground-breaking digital event
The annual awards celebrations are to take place on-screen in March 2021 and will include:A unique hybrid event platform with pre-recorded content, live video feeds for awards presentations and video conferencingEntertainment from local venues and performersLive voting for the Doncaster Business Hero AwardNHS Recognition Awards presentationFollowing the announcement that South Yorkshire will remain in Tier 3, Doncaster Chamber has reached the view that there is no option but to bring the Doncaster Business
Local businesses get behind the region’s Freeport bid
As post-Brexit talks continue after negotiators fail to reach an agreement, local businesses back the region's Freeport bid. Key employers from across the Sheffield City Region met last week at a roundtable to discuss the Freeport bid for Doncaster Sheffield Airport. Business sentiment is largely positive and in support of the bid for Doncaster Sheffield Airport to be home to one of the seven Freeports, which would support the Government’s own key objective of “levelling up”. Andy Morley, Group Managing
Doncaster Chamber responds to reviewed tiered Coronavirus restrictions
Commenting on the confirmation that South Yorkshire will remain in Tier 3 of COVID restrictions, Doncaster Chamber CEO Dan Fell said: “This is the last thing Doncaster’s business community wanted to hear even if it is largely expected. The continuation of Tier 3 status will have a devastating effect on the hospitality and retail businesses that were hoping that the weeks leading up to Christmas would help to boost their chances of survival. “Many of these businesses have spent considerable time and money
Doncaster Chamber appoints new board members
Formally announced at the Doncaster Chamber AGM, Doncaster Chamber is pleased to appoint So Him Fong, Director of Kingasia Food Ltd and Mark Pepper, CEO of Carlton Forest Group as new Board members. “We are delighted to welcome So Him Fong and Mark Pepper, two talented businesspeople, to the board” said Chamber President, Jill Wood. “Both bring with them a wealth of experience from long and distinguished careers. We are delighted they are joining us at such a vital time for Doncaster business and look
BCC responds to National Infrastructure Commission’s Rail Needs Assessment
Commenting on the National Infrastructure Commission’s Rail Needs Assessment, released today, Head of People Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce Jane Gratton said: “Improving rail capacity, connectivity and journey times between cities in the North and Midlands is essential to unlock economic growth, create jobs and level up. “But to maximise investment, regeneration and growth, the HS2 network must be also be delivered in full, as promised. The government must urgently provide business with
Doncaster on the Front Line of Climate Emergency
Dan Fell, CEO of Doncaster Chamber has welcomed findings from a report, commissioned by the Doncaster Climate and Biodiversity Commission, but warns businesses face enormous challenges at this time.The Commission, set up by Mayor Ros Jones and chaired by Ed Miliband MP, was established to set targets and actions for the whole borough, putting Doncaster as a frontrunner for tackling climate change. Following the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the UK government’s own advisers, areas the
BCC responds to the EU-UK Joint Committee agreement in principle on NI Protocol
Commenting on the agreement in principle of the EU-UK Joint Committee to ensure the Northern Ireland protocol is fully operational as of January 1st 2021, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: "More detail on how to keep trade flowing smoothly in both directions between GB and NI and on both sides of the Irish Sea after the 1st of January, whatever the outcome of negotiations, is a belated but necessary step forward in providing clarity for our business communities. The devil however will be in the
Government must support businesses – not just to weather restrictions but to power our economic reco
British Chambers of Commerce calls for the government to give businesses more evidence, support and clarity to weather Coronavirus restrictions and help power our economic recovery. The British Chambers of Commerce has called on the UK government to meet the five business tests it set out for Coronavirus restrictions in a letter from the Chamber Network to the Prime Minister in October to limit their impact on businesses and jobs and take a long-term approach to tackling the pandemic. The BCC’s five
When will the Kickstart scheme kick in? Doncaster Chamber calls for Government to address delays
When the £2 billion Kickstart Scheme launched in September to create hundreds of thousands of new, fully subsidised jobs for young people across the country, it received a welcome response from the business world. The 6-month work placements, open to those aged 16-24 claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment, was planned to offer thousands of the first placements from November. With 23.1% of people aged 16 to 64 in South Yorkshire economically inactive, a figure set to worsen because
Brexit: 24 days – 24 huge unanswered business questions
With negotiations between the UK and EU once again at a decision point – and with just 24 days to go until the end of the Brexit transition period – the latest analysis by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that businesses still have insufficient official information available in 24 critical areas, undermining their ability to prepare for change on 1st January. The leading business organisation’s Brexit Guidance Dashboard – long used by both business and government to evaluate the quality of official
Shortlist revealed for the Doncaster Business Awards
Businesses across the region are recognised and celebrated for their innovation, success and spirit as they are shortlisted for this year’s Doncaster Business Awards, sponsored by Doncaster College & University Centre.The Doncaster Business Awards is one of the most contested and prestigious business awards programme in the region. Each year, organisations of all sizes and from all sectors across Doncaster compete for coveted awards across categories including Green Business of the Year, Success through
Support local businesses this festive period, urges Doncaster Chamber
Spending locally this Christmas can help Doncaster’s economy recover Traditional town centres and high streets have faced unprecedented challenges in recent times. First, town centres were impacted by the drive towards out-of-town retail parks. Next, the rise of digital shopping impacted, as doorstep delivery hit footfall. Then came coronavirus, and restrictions that have brought town centres to a juddering halt. Now, in what retailers call the ‘Golden Quarter’ – the critical run-up to Christmas – they
Companies urged to prepare for Brexit as transition period draws to close
Doncaster Chamber says companies need to be ready in order to avoid delays and extra costs As the government tells businesses this week to make sure they are ready for big changes when the UK makes its final Brexit break from the European Union in one month, the team at Doncaster Chamber of Commerce are asking businesses across South Yorkshire – are you ready?But with the negotiations on a free-trade deal with the bloc stuck, many firms across the country say they still don't know key details of what those
Government Must Give More Clarification for Businesses Says Chamber President
Doncaster business owner and President of the Doncaster Chamber of Commerce has today called on the government for more clarity as the business community, and the country, teeters on the brink of a second national lockdown. Jill Wood, Managing Director of Doncaster based Signum Facilities Management, said businesses are already reeling from the effects of the first Covid lockdown, and are now facing another “devastating blow” which could send many of them to the wall. “A fresh wave of redundancies,
BCC responds to ONS GDP figures for October
Commenting on GDP figures for October 2020 published today by the ONS, BCC Head of Economics Suren Thiru said: “The sharp slowdown in economic output in October reflected the squeeze on activity from the re-introduction of tighter coronavirus restrictions, including the tier system in England. Firms in hospitality, who are most acutely exposed to the renewed restrictions, suffering particularly badly in the month. “October’s slowdown is likely to be followed by a significant contraction in economic
Doncaster Chamber to Honour Local NHS Heroes
As part of the annual Doncaster Business Awards, a highlight in the region’s business calendar now for over two decades, the NHS heroes who have cared for and worked to save the lives of residents in the region will be honoured. The Chamber has teamed up with sponsors ORB Recruitment to honour, recognise and celebrate the exceptional work of NHS staff throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. Honouring their selflessness, devotion, dedication and care, Doncaster Chamber of Commerce will champion the unsung
Sheffield City Region Mayor presses Chancellor for new deal for the North
Sheffield City Region Mayor Dan Jarvis has sent out a clarion call for a bold New Deal for the North – challenging the government to live up to its promises and tackle not just the immediate COVID-related crisis, but the fundamental problems which have long held the region back. The Mayor has written to the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, demanding the government set out concrete plans to ‘level up’ the economy, at a time when billions in public investment are needed in any case to soften the economic blow from
Chamber responds to Prime Minister’s announcement on further easing of lockdown restriction
Commenting on the Prime Minister’s announcement of further easing of Coronavirus restrictions from July 4 in England, including the reopening of culture, tourism and leisure venues as well as a relaxation of the two-metre rule, Doncaster Chamber Chief Executive, Dan Fell said: “The further easing of the lockdown will be welcome news to many within Doncaster’s business community. However, this will not be a return to business as normal and in order to comply with the guidance from Government, businesses
Questionnaire for businesses who move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Find out how you can help HMRC, and keep up to date with the changes due to the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol. At the end of the transition period when the Northern Ireland Protocol comes into force there will be changes to the way goods move between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Your business may be impacted by these changes if you can answer yes to any of the questions below.Do you move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland?Do you move goods between Great Britain and
HM The Queen praises Chambers’ contribution to business communities during Coronavirus
Her Majesty The Queen has offered support to businesses as they reopen, and praised the contribution Chambers of Commerce across the UK and around the world are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities, in a letter released today. The letter from Her Majesty, Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, comes as businesses across the UK are reopening and adjusting to a new normal. The letter reads: “At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the
BCC responds to Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee
Commenting on the decision by the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to keep interest rates on hold and expand quantitative easing, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The Bank of England’s decision to significantly expand quantitative easing reflects the unprecedented impact of coronavirus on the UK economy. It is vital that the Bank works with financial institutions to ensure that it translates into on the ground support for businesses.” “With
Doncaster Chamber calls for people and business to reinvest the Doncaster pound
As the high street starts to re-open, Doncaster Chamber is urging communities and businesses to shop local and support the Doncaster economy. Chamber CEO, Dan Fell said: “Covid-19 has irrefutably demonstrated just how much businesses need communities and how much communities need businesses, and I would encourage people to shop local whenever they can as a way of helping the economy recover. “Similarly, given the global impact of Covid-19 and the huge disruption it has caused to international supply
Chamber responds to April GDP figures of the economy shrinking by 20.4%
Commenting on GDP statistics for April 2020, published today (12 June) by the Office for National Statistics, Doncaster Chamber CEO Dan Fell said: “Today’s figures, highlighting the collapse of the UK’s GDP in April, lay bare the sheer scale of the impact of Covid-19 on the UK’s economy and on business communities in places like Doncaster. “Government interventions so far have helped to preserve the possibility that many businesses and jobs might be saved. However, the hard work starts now and there is
BCC responds to reports on the relaxation of Sunday trading laws
Commenting on plans to relax Sunday trading laws to help businesses trade through the Coronavirus crisis, as reported in The Times, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “Businesses need to be given every possible opportunity to start to generate sales again. If there are rules that can be relaxed to give more companies a fighting chance to trade their way through this crisis without compromising safety, ministers should do everything in their power to make it happen.”
BCC responds to post-Brexit border controls
Commenting on the ongoing negotiations between the UK and the EU, BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: “Businesses need the two sides to knuckle down and agree a deal. Otherwise companies will have to spend cash they don’t have preparing for a ‘no deal’ scenario yet again, just as they try to cope with the impact of the worst economic crisis in living memory. “Both the UK and EU need to signal a willingness to compromise when they meet next week. Allowing the present standoff to continue
Doncaster Chamber launches new finance finder service to help business access the funds they need
An exciting new business funding matching tool to revolutionise access to finance for businesses in the DN postcode area is released today by Doncaster Chamber of Commerce. The new ‘Chamber Finance Finder’ will allow member businesses fast and simple access to all funding options across loans, equity and grants – simplifying, speeding up and streamlining the application process for them. Businesses are still struggling to access the finance they need, so the Doncaster Chamber is utilising financial
BCC responds to TheCityUK’s recapitalisation report
Commenting on TheCityUK Recapitalisation Group’s interim report on recapitalising UK companies following Coronavirus, published today (Monday 8 June 2020), BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “This report is an extremely welcome contribution as we look to restart, rebuild and renew the UK economy. “Many businesses have taken out loans to help weather the unprecedented economic impact of Coronavirus, and bold solutions will be needed to prevent thousands of firms from falling into a spiral of
BCC and Amazon partner to help firms operate safely in ‘new normal’
The British Chambers of Commerce has launched an innovative partnership with Amazon to help businesses get back to work and kick-start the economy as lockdown restrictions ease. 1,000 UK businesses can tour Amazon fulfilment centres, where staff have been working safely throughout the crisisMajority of businesses surveyed can partially restart operations but 1 in 10 cannot, with many citing social distancing as a difficultyPartnership will provide practical guidance to help firms get back to work safely as
BCC responds to 14-day quarantine for air passengers
Responding to government confirmation of a 14-day quarantine for all air passengers and further detail on exemptions for those arriving in the UK, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “Business communities in the UK and around the world remain concerned by the Government’s decision to impose a blanket quarantine on international arrivals. “The safe re-establishment of connections to key markets and trade partners must now be a top priority for the Government. ‘Air bridges’ must be put in
Doncaster Chamber and Business in the Community support local foodbanks
Working in partnership Doncaster Chamber and Business in the Community (BITC) has played a key role in the donation of 35 pallets full of food to Doncaster foodbanks, managed by Food Aware CIC. The free delivery weighed in at over 8 tonnes, including cereal and chocolate generously donated by Nestle. Through their network of professional links across Doncaster and beyond, the Chamber were quickly able to bring together suppliers and foodchains to get the supplies to where they were needed most. Jade
Chamber of Commerce backs flexible furlough but calls for support for hardest hit sectors
The adjusted ‘flexible furlough’ scheme allowing employers to bring staff back to work on a part-time basis will be welcomed by businesses and employees alike as a ‘step in the right direction’ business leaders have said. From July, employers will be able to bring furloughed staff back to work for a number of days and place them on furlough for the remainder, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced on Friday. However from August onwards, businesses must start to make a contribution to the 80 per cent salary
Local firms invited to attend a reopening your business advice session
On Thursday 28 May Doncaster Chamber is hosting a unique live business webinar with representatives from Doncaster Council and Business Doncaster to advise businesses about safely reopening in line with Government guidance. Just as importantly it will also allow local businesses to raise any worries or concerns they are facing. Date: Thursday 28 May 2020Time: 11am-12noonVenue: Chamber Digital online Zoom event Paul Barrett, Director of External Affairs at Doncaster Chamber, said: “With certain sectors of
Doncaster Chamber announces new improved membership packages to support business
Doncaster Chamber has introduced a range of new membership packages, designed to support businesses of all shapes and sizes, with even more services and benefits to help them grow, succeed and prosper. The new packages, named Ready, Bronze, Silver and Gold, follow the same successful formula as previously, but with an even wider range of additional services. There is also real clarity on showing how much a service is worth if it was to be purchased separately, highlighting just what incredible value
Doncaster Chamber comments on Prime Minister’s address and next stage of Coronavirus response
Commenting on the Prime Minister’s address on Sunday 10 May in which he set out a conditional plan for the next phase of the response to Covid-19, Doncaster Chamber CEO, Dan Fell, said: “Whilst many in business will be pleased to learn that Government is aiming to re-start the economy, there will be significant consternation about how and when this is to be achieved. Businesses’ concerns will be threefold: the lack of clarity when it comes to the timetable for recovery, a lack of clarity on safety
Doncaster businesses invited to digital debate with Council CEO and Mayor
On Tuesday 28 April Doncaster Chamber is hosting a unique live business Q&A with Mayor Ros Jones and CEO of Doncaster Council, Damian Allen. •Date: Tuesday 28 April 2020•Time: 2-3pm•Venue: Chamber Digital online Zoom event This one-off Chamber Digital event has been scheduled to allow companies to hear first hand about what the council is doing to support business during the Coronavirus pandemic and how they are planning for recovery. Just as importantly it will also allow local businesses to question and
Can your business provide laptops to support Doncaster children learning from home?
Many businesses have struggled to keep operating during the crisis, and have in many cases all but ceased able to generate revenue. At the same time, our teachers keep schools open for those who still have places, whilst many others stay at home. Polypipe has joined others across the North including Northern Gas Networks and Drax in Selby to donate laptops to children who are from the most disadvantaged backgrounds. These efforts by businesses have been matched by government offering to also support
Calling all Business Heroes!
Do you know a business in the DN postcode area that is going the extra mile to provide essential support during the Coronavirus pandemic? Doncaster Chamber is looking for companies that are going above and beyond to help others, including companies adapting their production lines to manufacture critical PPE, those helping local NHS hospitals, care services and front line staff, or lending a hand to support the more vulnerable in the local community.Jade Dyer, Assistant Director of Services at Doncaster
Business Impact Tracker: More than 70 per cent of firms surveyed have furloughed staff
Results from the latest BCC Coronavirus Business Impact Tracker reveal that the vast majority of businesses surveyed have furloughed a proportion of their workforce, and are awaiting funds from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme as payday approaches for many. 71 per cent of survey respondents have furloughed staff, up from 66 per cent last week Cash flow remains a significant concern for many businesses - 6 in 10 have less than three months’ cash in reserve The leading business organisation’s weekly
BCC and Doncaster Chamber respond to announcement of Future Fund
Welcoming the Chancellor’s announcement of a Future Fund, supporting start-ups by delivering an initial commitment of £250m of new government funding which will be unlocked by private investment on a match funded basis, British Chamber of Commerce Head of Economics, Suren Thiru, said: “The Future Fund will help provide urgently needed support for many of our most innovative and fast-growing businesses around the UK, as we have urged. “The fund fills an important gap in existing government support
BCC survey finds investment and recruitment would be cut in the event of ‘no deal’
One of the biggest surveys of business intentions since the EU referendum has found that nearly two-thirds of firms still aren’t preparing for Brexit – and in the event of a ‘no deal’ outcome many would cut investment and recruitment plans. With just six months to go before the UK leaves the EU, the British Chambers of Commerce is calling for UK ministers to redouble their efforts to reach an agreement with the EU – and ensure a transition period that could help firms prepare for change and prevent a slump