The North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) is preparing to power ahead as the region’s business voice, with the launch of its Manifesto 2016.
The region’s largest business membership organisation has devised its priorities for the year ahead based on feedback from its members and business leaders from across the region.
With five fundamental campaigns, the Manifesto is a representation of what North East business people are calling for in order to grow stronger, remain competitive and secure a successful future. NECC’s priorities for 2016 are:
Influential North East – ensure the region punches its weight on the national stage and has the ability to shape its own future.
Global North East – improve interaction with the wider world to create new opportunities for businesses.
Connected North East – provide North East businesses with better access to markets and customers.
Competitive North East – support local business environments that encourage growth and enterprise.
Working North East – ensure businesses are able to access the right talent and invest in skills for the future.
NECC President Mike Matthews MBE aims to build on progress made in 2015 to ensure the North East’s voice is heard loud and clear.
“Last year, on behalf with our members and colleagues, we celebrated successes and supported the region through disappointments. We championed devolution to the North East, encouraged business to bring operations back to the region and facilitated the development of stronger links between business and education. We constantly look to support North East business and support our members, and this year is no different.
“We have set ambitious, achievable targets. It is a simple aim, but with complex and unique challenges. The priorities proposed in this Manifesto aim to make the North East the most welcoming business environment in the country.
“Our region is the engine room for the Northern Powerhouse and 2016 promises to be a year of significant change. Together we grow stronger and now we can add our weight to a collective northern roar.”
NECC’s Manifesto was developed through extensive consultation with the thousands of businesses in their membership, including surveys, face-to-face meetings and through a network of local meetings and policy forums, with the mutual aim to drive the North East forward.
Lee Perkins, Managing Director of NECC member Sage UK & Ireland is optimistic for the future and is keen to push for more. He said: “It’s an exciting time and not only can North East businesses keep up with competitors around the UK, I believe we can leap frog them.
“There has certainly been an increase in confidence in the North East and we need more of this. We need to work together, support our Chamber and believe in ourselves.”
Michelle Ord, Head of Client Development, Keltie Cochrane agreed the North East is on the verge of an exciting year ahead but only if the right support is available.
“It’s important that we can continue to attract business from outside the North East region and compete on a national and international level,” said Ms Ord.
“We need NECC to assist in making our region an attractive option by providing genuine opportunities, introductions and effective support systems to facilitate this.”
Following on from their anniversary year celebrating 200 years of supporting and championing North East business, NECC is more determined than ever to campaign successfully on behalf of its members.
For more information and to download NECC’s Manifesto 2016, see www.necc.co.uk/policy/manifesto