Our current system is stifling UK’s exports

WE know that finding new business is still tough for companies across a number of sectors.

Growth is something that many aspire to, but that can take time and the right conditions are needed to enable businesses to take advantage of opportunities, rather than feeling stifled by legislation and tax.

Here at the Chamber we are constantly trying to tackle the issues that impede businesses.

Our deputy chief executive, Chris Fletcher, attended a meeting at the Association of British Insurers in London to put forward evidence provided by Chamber members of difficulties they have encountered using trade credit to export.

We are also working on a number of other activities in this area to drive home the point to Government that export growth cannot flourish under the current system.

Watch this space to get updates on our progress and feel free to contact Chris (chris.fletcher@gmchamber.co.uk) if you have also been experiencing problems.




WE are fully behind the latest apprenticeships initiative in Oldham, 100 Apprentices in 100 days.



We must encourage and support training for the future and businesses need to think carefully about how they can get involved with the programme and help out if they can.

Benefits

Apprentices can add a lot of value to a business. There are benefits for both parties and if your company has the scope to take somebody on The National Apprenticeship Service can give you advice and guidance.

Visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk or call 08000-150 600 for more information.




The latest event for the construction sector at the E3 Business and Enterprise Hub attracted at least 80 representatives from the construction sector and related industries.



As well as offering good opportunities to network, these events are incredibly informative as attendees are told about the latest subcontracting opportunities available to them within the borough.




If there are any members from any sector within the Oldham borough who are finding that their business operations are being impacted by certain issues, feel free to contact Michelle Geoghegan, our local policy manager, at michelle.geoghegan@gmchamber.co.uk.



Anybody interested in joining the Chamber can also contact Michelle via the above e-mail address.




Paul Roberts is Oldham President of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce