North East Chamber of Commerce: In focus – John McCabe

This is a huge year for the North East.

I believe we will look back at the mayoral and local elections and, of course, the General Election – whenever it comes – as pivotal moments for our business community and wider region.

In March, we worked alongside regional partners to deliver hustings.

These allowed our members to hear directly from mayoral election candidates, while providing those running for office with an opportunity to make their pitch to a highly engaged business audience.

North East businesses have been long-standing advocates for broader, deeper devolution; we know the huge opportunities in terms of power and resources that more devolution will bring.

We’ve worked hard to ensure candidates understand the issues affecting the region’s businesses, setting strong and fair agendas that really deliver.

Through our policy and representation work, we’re ensuring we are playing an active part in how people and businesses in the

North East and the Tees Valley are going to be governed in the future.

Much focus this year will be on political events.

While we know these will have a huge impact, we also know it’s business as usual for many.

Our last Quarterly Economic Survey – the largest independent UK business survey of its kind – showed the complexity of economic conditions for businesses, painting a picture of two halves.

Confidence is improving in key areas of economic health, while inflationary pressures around core costs remain.

One of the greatest strengths of our network is the diversity of our membership.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of examples of businesses of all sizes, connecting and working together, thanks to their Chamber membership.

This was evidenced in organisations large and small, public and private, getting behind the Crown Works Studios proposals in Sunderland – paving the way for other North East businesses to play their part in our economic renewal.

Leading this fantastic organisation, I take great pride and satisfaction in seeing how our membership enables businesses to be the best they can be.

Whether utilising support services or cost savings, or taking part in our unrivalled events programme, our team works hard to ensure we’re delivering real benefit to our business community.

Our vision is to ensure the North East is a place where people and businesses thrive.

We’ll continue to do this through supporting, connecting and representing businesses like yours – promoting economic growth and prosperity.