That’s the message from Sarah Moorhouse, chief executive of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, as she issued a rallying call to businesses to have their say in research which directly influences policy at national level.
of Commerce
She said: “Our Quarterly Economic Survey is one of the best ways we have for the government to understand how the economy is affecting businesses in our region.
“The simple fact is that we can’t complain that decision-makers in Westminster don’t understand the pressures businesses face if we’re not prepared to tell them. And to tell them in no uncertain terms.
“I know we bang the drum every 12 weeks about the need to complete the QES, but that’s a huge part of how we, and our businesses, can influence what comes down the line.
“The survey responses and research directly feed into key decisions like interest rates, it tells the Department for Business and Trade where the challenges are and where the help is needed.
“It takes just three minutes to complete and we want our business owners to stand up and be counted.”
Sarah said Black Country businesses of all sizes and across all sectors can complete the survey – and she added: “We are particularly keen to hear from our manufacturers, automotive firms who may be affected by tariffs and also from SMEs facing challenges with rising costs and recruitment. Without your input, the Black Country’s voice simply won’t be heard where it matters most.”
Businesses can complete the survey by visiting the Black Country Chamber of Commerce website https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCCCQESQ225 .
The results will be unveiled at an event on July 3 at the Mercure Birmingham West, West Bromwich.
