South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce offers “Brexit” help for local businesses

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce has reaffirmed its commitment to the area’s prosperity as it works to support businesses concerned about the implications of Brexit.

The message from the Chamber is “We are here to help” after receiving enquiries from local companies, particularly those which trade overseas, on the potential impact an EU divorce will have on their day-to-day operations.

Many Crewe and Nantwich businesses took the opportunity to attend the Chamber’s ‘Post Brexit’ seminar which posed the question ‘What next for your business’ with expert speakers drawn from law, banking, accountancy and wealth management.

The event, staged at Wychwood Park Hotel, offered business leaders a chance to put their questions to Nick Stamenkovic, NatWest Group Economist, Luke Pritchard, Poole Alcock corporate law specialist, Paul Edwards of Afford Bond accountants and Andrew Watts of Watts Mortgage and Wealth Management.

Members were asked to consider practical steps to Brexit-proof their businesses including a review of their supply contracts, employment contracts, commercial leases, data protection, IP and trademarks.

While the corporate sector had paired back on investment plans due to uncertainty over Brexit, consumers were still spending and confidence in the North West was riding high, they were told.

Employment growth remained strong but with EU migration at an all-time low, this was impacting those who depend on the labour, in particular the agricultural industry.

Chamber Chief Executive Paul Colman said: “A key function of the Chamber is to support and provide information for local businesses including those trading internationally and the smooth passage of the many goods and services produced in South Cheshire.

“Currently we are helping a wide variety of local exporters prepare for the change at the UK Border following a no deal exit for the EU.

“Our support extends to businesses of all sizes which are likely to be impacted in some way and are seeking advice on preparing for the Post Brexit Britain.

“We continue to work closely with Cheshire East Council, Cheshire and Warrington LEP and the British Chambers of Commerce to make sure the local business voice is heard.

“The Brexit event was staged to inform on the potential implications and opportunities post Brexit Britain may bring and for those who were unable to attend, we are here to offer support.”

In his New Year message, Chamber President John Dunning hit out at MPs who have used Brexit for their own political gain and the lack of clarity surrounding the entire split.

He was, however, optimistic for the area. He said: “With its location, infrastructure and transport links, South Cheshire has all the ingredients to succeed in fulfilling its economic potential.

“Also the quality and resilience of our local businesses and great array of skills and young talent, will meet the challenge and take full advantage of the opportunities that arise.”

South Cheshire Chamber is an officially designated authority for the issue of EC Certificates of Origin.

It provides international trade advice, export documentation certificates and best practice for exports worldwide.

For more information call International Trade Manager Jacqui Morris on 01270 445406 or email [email protected]

For more information on joining the Chamber call 01270 504700 or visit www.sccci.co.uk

The next event will be a quarterly Local and Economic Update at Cheshire College South & West on April 5.