This vital survey helps the Chamber build a clear picture of the current business climate across the two counties. Your feedback plays an essential role in identifying emerging trends, understanding challenges and influencing key decisions that shape the future of our local economy.

Why Your Voice Matters

The Quarterly Economic Survey is one of the most important tools we use to represent our members and the wider business community. The results are shared regionally and nationally, directly feeding into reports presented to the British Chambers of Commerce, HM Treasury, and the Bank of England.

By taking part, you help:

• Highlight the realities and opportunities facing businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

• Influence local business policies and the services the Chamber provides.

• Ensure your experiences and perspectives are heard by decision-makers at every level.

As a thank you for taking part, you’ll be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 voucher to use at one of Evertons Wine Shop’s exclusive Wine Tasting Events in Reindeer Court, Worcester.

Get Involved Today!

Completing the survey takes just a few minutes, but your input can make a lasting impact on the region’s business landscape.

Take the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HW7ZT79

Deadline: 4.00pm, 1st December 2025

Together, we can ensure the voice of Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses continues to be heard, locally, regionally and nationally.

The post The Quarterly Economic Survey (QES 4) Is Now Live – Have Your Say! appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

TR Solar & Roofing – provides expert solar installations and roofing solutions to make your home energy-efficient and sustainable

Exceptional Development – empowers individuals and organisations through executive, business, and performance coaching to achieve sustainable success.

unWINd Clinic – offers holistic wellness therapies for mind and body

SMEE Designs Embroidery & Print – creates high-quality branded clothing and print for businesses and teams.

Emma Hewitt Business Awards Adviser – helps businesses craft winning award entries and celebrate success

Plotline Consulting – supports storytelling and communication strategies for purpose-driven businesses

S & J Building Works Ltd – delivers trusted building and construction services across the region

Growth & Harmony People Solutions Ltd – partners with organisations to enhance leadership and people performance

Creative Mouse Ltd – provides creative design, digital marketing, and branding services

JTH Digital Media – helps businesses grow online through expert digital marketing solutions

Daybreak Solutions Limited – offers CFO and senior finance consultancy to help businesses thrive financially.

Wagtail Retreat – provides a luxury countryside escape for relaxation and recharging

AI Serve 247 Ltd – delivers AI-driven business support and automation solutions

Kate & Co. Content Marketing – crafts compelling content strategies that engage and convert

Aquatherm Heat Transfer – specialises in sustainable heating and cooling technology

Numo Ltd – provides professional ERP cloud services to streamline business operations

Abacus 121 – helps businesses grow through proven marketing systems and international expansion strategies

Westmead Hotel – is an independent Birmingham hotel offering exceptional hospitality

Avensys UK Limited – supplies high-quality home entertainment and commercial AV solutions

Sysum Howard Duggan – provides expert accountancy and financial services

West Malvern Marketing Limited – empowers businesses with strategic communications and marketing

EweMove Worcester East (Pass the Baton Ltd) – offers friendly and professional estate agency services

Transform Counselling UK – offers compassionate, professional counselling services to support emotional wellbeing and personal growth

Salocin Group – delivers customer data and insight solutions that drive performance

GP1CS Limited – offers professional project consultancy and business services

Release Your Potential Ltd – empowers individuals and teams through coaching, mentoring, and motivational speaking.

Agriline Products Ltd – supplies top-quality tractor parts worldwide

Winterburn OBM – provides outsourced business management to streamline operations

Daniel-Scott Recruitment Ltd – connects businesses with the best local talent

Emily Rose Fine Art and Framing – offers bespoke framing and original artwork.

Herefordshire Young & Young Adult Carers CIC – supports young carers with community and wellbeing programmes

Herefordshire Reuse and Recycling Organisation – promotes sustainability through reuse and recycling

Wychavon Trailers Ltd – provides durable and high-quality trailers for all uses

Speednet International Limited – delivers fast and reliable IT and networking services

Conveyors and Mechanical Handling Ltd – offers bespoke conveyor and automation solutions

Worcester Computers Ltd – provides IT support and technology solutions

Battle of Evesham Trust CIO – preserves local history and delivers engaging community events

RMT HR Consultancy – strengthens organisations through strategic HR development and support

The Digital Alchemist & Co – transforms brands with digital strategy and creativity

Essential Divine Wellness – offers holistic therapies and wellbeing practices

Little Mixers – transforms the drinks industry with high-fruit-content, easy-to-use and sustainable purées crafted in Worcestershire

Rock Farm Pensax LLP – offers luxury countryside stays at Rowley Meadow

Heath Springs Ltd – manufactures precision-engineered components for diverse industries

We Are Men United CIC – supports men’s mental health through community and connection

Cobalt Health – provides advanced diagnostic imaging and healthcare services

Brinsop Court – is a stunning historic venue for weddings and events

Zoe Davies EXP – helps clients sell and move home with expert real estate support

Utility Warehouse / Sara Longmire – offers bundled utility savings for homes and businesses

Haus Installations Ltd – provides high-quality home improvement and installation services

Blue Box Software Ltd – delivers smart software solutions for modern businesses

The Creative Hut Limited – fosters creativity, collaboration, and business growth through a vibrant professional community

Beautiful Minds Hypnotherapy – heart-centred, neuroscience-based clinical hypnotherapy to help clients move forward with calm, confidence and purpose

Kamelia Photography – offers a warm, fun and authentically emotional photoshoot experience for maternity, newborn, family, wedding and branding clients

Worcester Physiotherapy Clinic – offers personalised, expert physiotherapy and sports-injury rehabilitation in Worcester to help you get back to what you love

The post Welcome New Members October appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Following the discussion, guests enjoyed a guided tour of the College’s outstanding teaching facilities, including the impressive TV studios, state-of-the-art car maintenance workshops, and areas dedicated to building and construction disciplines. The visit concluded with delicious cakes and refreshments prepared by the College’s talented catering students. The session was both engaging and inspiring, highlighting the strong partnership between education, business, and government in supporting the region’s future prosperity.

The post Bradey Thomas MP Q&A: Chamber Hosts Engaging Session on Local Priorities appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The Quarterly Economic Survey provides a detailed snapshot of business confidence and economic conditions across the UK, based on responses from 280 organisations across a wide range of sectors. It serves as a vital barometer of local and national sentiment, helping shape policy decisions through the British Chambers of Commerce network.

Key Findings from Q3 2025

The Q3 2025 results reveal continued signs of resilience among UK businesses, with many indicators showing steady or improved performance compared to the previous quarter. Highlights include:

• • UK Sales: Net balance fell to +8%, showing mixed performance.
  • UK Orders: Slight improvement to -1%, suggesting stabilisation.
  • Overseas Trade: Sales held at +3%, orders at 0%, indicating steady but subdued demand.
  • Cashflow: Net balance dropped to +2%, reflecting tighter conditions.
  • Recruitment: 38% of businesses reported that professional/managerial roles were the most
    difficult to recruit for.
  • Investment: 16% of businesses reported an increase in their capital investment plans, down from 19% in Q2.
  • Confidence: 45% expect turnover growth, but only 38% foresee improved profitability.
  • Top Concerns: Tax, inflation, and labour costs continue to pressure margins.

The report also explores the impact of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, with 75% of businesses seeing potential benefits. However, many called for better representation, transparency, and consistency in local decision-making.

These findings reflect a cautiously optimistic business environment, with firms continuing to adapt to evolving market conditions and planning for long-term growth.

Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all businesses that took part in this quarter’s survey. Your input is invaluable in helping to represent the views of the local business community and in influencing government policy.

Download the full Q3 2025 Report here:
Click to download your free copy

The post Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Release the Quarterly Economic Survey Report for Q3 2025 appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The BCC’s budget submission focuses on policies to encourage investment, strengthen the workforce, support exports and develop infrastructure.

The top four recommendations are: 

• No more taxes on business, alongside reforming business rates and the axing of the windfall tax on oil and gas

• Prioritising infrastructure investment and approval, including more rail projects, alongside a new runway at Heathrow and continued support for Gatwick and Luton.

• Supporting exports by cutting customs barriers, funding digital trade and backing new trade accelerators. 

• Taking action on chronic skills shortages – including a wage subsidy scheme for young people with long-term health issues.

The submission has more than 60 recommendations in total, based on extensive surveys with thousands of companies, interviews with policy experts across the country and input from large corporates.

This research shows that while the economy is forecast to grow 1.3% in 2025 this will not be enough to shift the dial on investment or fill the Chancellor’s fiscal black hole.

Business confidence crumbled in the aftermath of last year’s budget after firms were hit with large increases in employment costs and it has not recovered. Inflation has also remained stubbornly above the Bank of England’s target, while the UK’s goods trade deficit has widened and unemployment has climbed.

The BCC’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey has found confidence and investment levels are around the same as 2022.   Less than half of responding firms (48%) are expecting increased turnover in the next 12 months, while 21% expect a decrease.

In terms of investment, only 21% have put more money into their firms, while 25%, have scaled back their plans.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

“This year’s budget will be a make-or-break moment for many firms. They need the Chancellor to show that she gets it and stop any further tax rises on business. Right now, many firms feel drained. They cannot plan ahead as they expect further tax demands to be laid at their feet.

“Last year’s budget took the wind from their sails, and they have been struggling to find momentum ever since. The Chancellor must seize this moment and use her budget to deliver a pro-growth agenda that can restore optimism and belief amongst business leaders.

“They want to see a tax system that incentivises growth, more support on exports and skills, and commitments on infrastructure, planning and the energy grid that are fully followed through.

“These are the changes that businesses tell us can truly make a difference. They also want the Chancellor to set out a clear vision on the future pathway for taxes, regulation and the levels of support they can expect.

“This budget is a golden opportunity to send a signal to business that she is on their side. The Chancellor can finally give them confidence to invest and grow, without the constant edge of fear that their plans will be upended by tax and policy changes.

“These are no small asks, but if the Budget can deliver then the promise of stronger economic growth can finally become a reality.”

A summary of the BCC’s key budget asks can be found here.

The post Make Or Break Budget Must Deliver Growth appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Now in its seventh year, this much-loved event has become a highlight in the county’s festive calendar – offering a wonderful opportunity to connect with colleagues and friends, reflect on the year, and raise a glass to the season ahead.

An Evening of Connection and Celebration

The evening begins at 5.15pm with Prosecco and networking, followed by a Carol Service at 6.00pm led by the team at All Saints. The celebrations continue at 7.15pm with mulled wine and mince pies, creating the perfect atmosphere to mingle and enjoy the spirit of Christmas together.

Organised in partnership with Lloyds Bank, Worcester BID, All Saints Worcester, and the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, the event celebrates not just business success but also community connection and shared goodwill.

Supporting Local Charities

As in previous years, the evening will raise much-needed funds for local charities – Worcester Foodbank and Maggs Day Centre – which provide vital support to individuals and families across the city.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a food parcel, essential items, or make a monetary donation. Every contribution counts – and this year, thanks to the Lloyds Bank Foundation, all funds donated directly to Worcester Foodbank or Maggs Day Centre will be doubled.

Donation links:

• Worcester Foodbank

• Maggs Day Centre

A Warm Welcome Awaits

With limited space at All Saints Church, early booking is encouraged to ensure a spot at what promises to be a memorable evening filled with festive music, goodwill, and community spirit.

Reserve your place by emailing: info@worcesterbid.com

So, gather your colleagues, friends, and family, and join us as we celebrate all that unites us this Christmas – with Prosecco, carols, mince pies, and plenty of festive cheer.

The post Worcestershire Businesses Come Together for Festive Carols and Community Spirit appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The relaunch comes through an exciting partnership between the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Crosby Associates Media, who bring decades of experience producing publications for Chambers of Commerce across the UK. The new Business Direction offers an expanded editorial scope, refreshed design, and enhanced digital accessibility through its brand-new online platform — ensuring members and readers can now engage with the magazine anytime, anywhere.

Each quarterly edition will feature in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and expert commentary on the issues shaping the business landscape across the two counties — from innovation and growth to leadership, trade, and technology.

A fresh editorial focus

The first issue under the new partnership delivers an ambitious and wide-ranging lineup of features.

Leading the edition is a powerful Women in Business special to coincide with the Chamber’s Women in Business Conference. Across ten pages, it explores the challenges and opportunities women face in today’s economy, featuring in-depth interviews with four inspirational leaders: Joanne Hammick, Managing Director of West Midland Safari Park; Jess Fassnidge, Captain of Worcester City Women FC; Samantha Edwards, of NMITE, and Ruby Edwards, communications specialist and entrepreneur.

Another highlight is an exclusive interview with Stuart Jones, Managing Director of First Rail Open Access, revealing plans for a multi-million-pound bid to connect Hereford directly with London – a move that could unlock significant economic potential for the region.

The Going for Growth feature ties into the Chamber’s Growth Forum, exploring how businesses can overcome today’s toughest challenges, with contributions from innovators, academics, and tech leaders. Further features explore international trade, cybersecurity, and the AI boom, alongside Patron features spotlighting University of Worcester and Hewett Recruitment.

The new-look Business Direction has been editorially led by Karl Holbrook, former Executive Editor of the Daily Express and Group Editor of The Northern Echo, who has previously led newsrooms from New York and London to Edinburgh and the North East.

“It’s been a real privilege to help relaunch this great publication and to lean into the rich tapestry of business stories across Herefordshire and Worcestershire,” Karl said. “From the inspirational women leaders driving change across the region to the major infrastructure projects that could reshape its economic future, Business Direction is about championing the people and ideas that make this region thrive.”

Nick Fellows, Managing Director of Crosby Associates Media, said: “We’re thrilled to see the new Business Direction come to life in print and online. This partnership represents a real commitment to delivering quality journalism, dynamic design, and valuable insights for the region’s business community.”

Sharon Smith, Chief Executive of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce added: “We’re incredibly proud to re-launch Business Direction, our flagship magazine that champions the innovation, resilience and success of businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. This refreshed edition marks an exciting new chapter, offering even more inspiration and opportunities for our vibrant business community and Members.”

With a readership of more than 10,500 per edition, Business Direction remains one of the most influential voices in the regional business landscape — now with a stronger digital presence and greater reach than ever before.

To read the latest edition visit: https://www.business-direction.co.uk/

The post Business Direction launches bold new look appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

According to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) labour market overview, the estimated number of payrolled employees in the UK for August 2025 is 30.6 million, an increase from August 2024. The unemployment rate as of September 2025 stands at 4.1%, showing a slight decline compared to the previous three months. However, despite the drop in unemployment, the estimated number of job vacancies has fallen for the 27th consecutive period, down to 842,000  which highlights the ongoing challenge in filling roles across various sectors.

Many local businesses are still facing difficulties in recruiting suitable talent, which is critical for maintaining operations and supporting future growth. Closing the local and regional skills gap continues to be one of the Chamber’s key priorities as we support businesses into 2026 and beyond.

To support this effort, the Chamber of Commerce is once again partnering with Hewett Recruitment to produce the annual Salary & Benefits Report 2026. This essential report benchmarks salaries and employee benefits across both counties, helping employers stay competitive in attracting and retaining talent.

The report will provide detailed insights into minimum, maximum, and average salaries for a wide range of roles. In today’s landscape, where benefits like flexible working and enhanced leave are just as important to candidates as pay, having access to accurate market data has never been more important.

Have your say and let us know what salaries and benefits you offer by completing the Salary & Benefits survey today: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CQFF7WQ

Survey closes: Friday 7th November 2025
The Salary & Benefits 2026 Report will launch at our HR Forum in January 2026

The post Improve Your Staff Recruitment and Retention with the Salary & Benefits Survey, in Partnership with Hewett Recruitment appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

St Richard’s Hospice Foundation – Worcestershire charity providing palliative care.

Spartan Fire Protection – Fire safety systems and compliance specialists.

First Enterprise – Inclusive finance and business support for Midlands SMEs.

Crowthers Chartered Accountants – Family-run tax and accountancy firm.

Your Herefordshire Ltd – Independent local news outlet focused on delivering timely and relevant updates across Herefordshire.

Axiom Pictures –Photography studio, offering professional headshots, branding, and event photography

Kyre Park Limited – Privately owned historic parkland and gardens in Worcestershire

IM Export Services Limited – Export packing and freight solutions.

Copson Social Ltd – Social media strategy and consultancy agency for B2B businesses.

The Workplace Equipment Hub Ltd – Workplace goods and equipment sales agent.

Ladies Fighting Breast Cancer – Charity supporting breast cancer survivors and supporters.

AMB Energy Assessments Ltd – Energy testing and performance assessments.

Crazi Jalfrezi Catering – Mobile catering serving Indian food, Vegan, Pizza & multi cuisine.

Russell & Co. – Malvern-based legal aid solicitors

P.G.S Team Limited– Event and conference organisers.

The Giles’ Trust – Brain tumour research and patient care charity.

Lollipop Youth Theatre – Inclusive theatre group for children and teens.

West Midlands Compressors Ltd – Industrial air compressor services.

Constellation Cold Logistics UK – Cold storage and distribution provider.

Bison Management Corporation Ltd – International recruitment specialists.

Kate Firkins Counselling – Counsellor supporting adults with trauma and anxiety.

Wellness Inspired Ltd – Sports, recreation, and wellness activities provider.

Kind Wealth – Financial advice on pensions, investments, and mortgages.

Haigh Engineering– Medical waste and sewage treatment systems.

VisualEyes – Offers high quality 3D visualisation services

Caspian Wood Gaming and Wellbeing – Glamping and wellbeing retreat in Worcestershire.

eighteen73 – Creative agency for branding and digital marketing.

HeartStart Herefordshire – Free CPR and life support training charity.

Elite Enforcement Services – Private security and enforcement company.

Hollingstone Rural Property Consultants – Land agency supporting farmers and landowners.

Light Ideas International Limited – Specialist in outdoor and architectural lighting solutions.

AIMS – Business accountancy and tax services for SMEs.

Tabby Tiger– freelance comms services and networking events for the charity sector

Good2Great – Coaching, training, and consultancy services to help businesses to thrive

Willys Limited – Organic ,sustainable farming producing raw, unpasteurised Apple Cider Vinegar

Keep Governance and Safeguarding -Safeguarding consultancy based in Herefordshire, existing to reduce the risk of abuse exploitation and harassment.

Make your next professional connection by viewing our full list of Members in the Members Directory here.

Not a Member? Find out more.

The post Welcome New Members September appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

TOURISM SECTOR
Both the RHS Malvern Spring Festival and Royal Three Counties Show saw increased visitor numbers in 2024, up nine and six per cent respectively. Advance sales for the upcoming Autumn Show are running twelve per cent ahead year to date, with hopes that good weather will help deliver another successful event. Venue hire bookings remain strong with several contract extensions under negotiation. Despite economic uncertainty elsewhere, the local tourism sector, particularly at the Showground, continues to perform well.

AGRICULTURE AND HORTICULTURE SECTOR
Blue Tongue cases remain limited to Devon, Cornwall and one in Lancashire, although England remains designated as high risk. Dry weather has caused poor yields across the Three Counties and sporadic bird flu cases continue, making farming conditions challenging. The horticulture sector faces new RHS rules from next year requiring peat-free growing for nurseries and exhibitors. Some concessions have eased the transition but many nurseries, especially those sourcing from the Netherlands where no restrictions apply, may choose not to participate in RHS shows due to these changes.

INSURANCE SECTOR
Worcestershire businesses face growing risks and new opportunities as extreme weather events increase insurance claims, highlighting the need for stronger risk management and business continuity planning. With winter approaching, proactive maintenance such as clearing gutters and inspecting heating systems can help prevent costly damage. Cybersecurity remains a key concern, particularly for SMEs which often lack resources to recover from attacks, underscoring the importance of investment in digital security and staff training. On a positive note the insurance market is softening, offering businesses improved coverage options at lower premiums, helping them to protect assets and build resilience.

LOGISTICS SECTOR
The logistics sector continues to face a challenging operating environment. While driver shortages have eased since the COVID crisis, recruitment for warehousing and technical roles remains difficult, compounded by an ageing workforce. Costs remain high due to volatile fuel prices, insurance and increasing regulatory compliance. Recent cyberattacks on major supply chain partners such as M&S and Microlise have disrupted operations, emphasising the growing need for cyber resilience. Regionally Jaguar Land Rover’s slowdown is impacting logistics providers in the Midlands. Infrastructure pressures from congestion and poorly coordinated roadworks continue to cause delays, but opportunities remain for operators offering flexible, compliant and secure services particularly for irregular freight and seasonal supply chains.

IT SECTOR
The IT sector continues to grow with strong demand for managed IT and security services. Windows 10 upgrades to version 11 are accelerating ahead of the mid-October deadline, with extended support expected to be costly for those delaying migration. Recruitment is positive with new hires joining from competitors signalling a post-COVID recovery. Tariff changes have not yet significantly affected stock but may do so in the future. Cybersecurity remains a priority following high-profile attacks such as Jaguar Land Rover’s. Upcoming Chamber and EBC events on Cyber Security and AI are recommended. Overall demand remains high for managed IT, communications and support services as clients move away from poor service providers.

HOSPITALITY SECTOR
The travel and hospitality sector remains strong nationally, driven by rising domestic tourism, staycations and increasing digital adoption. Inbound tourism is forecast at 43.4 million visits with £33.7 billion in spending expected for 2025. While overall travel spend increases, domestic rail demand is falling and business trips are becoming shorter and simpler. Challenges include labour shortages, high energy costs and inflation. Locally Worcester and Worcestershire’s visitor economy contributes £939 million annually and supports over 19,000 jobs. No major new hotels have been confirmed although Debenhams may convert to serviced apartments and Fownes continues to be used for refugee housing. Tom Collins MP has sought advice on effective event sponsorship pitches for local businesses.

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR
The UK construction sector saw modest growth of half a per cent in the third quarter, led by private housing repairs, maintenance and infrastructure contributing between two and a half and four per cent. Residential new builds remain weak due to slow planning, funding uncertainty and cautious developer sentiment. Smaller builders face tight margins, rising finance costs and weaker demand. Labour and skills shortages persist, limiting capacity amid infrastructure growth. Material prices have stabilised although wage and compliance costs remain high. Forecasts predict 1.6 per cent growth in 2025 rising to 3.3 per cent annually from 2026 to 2029 driven by infrastructure, energy, utilities and industrial sectors. The solar sector is booming with new regulations from 2025 requiring solar panels on most new builds. Solar generation has increased by around a third year on year with nearly 48 per cent of Britain’s electricity coming from zero carbon sources in July 2025. Removal of planning permission for EV chargers in quarter three has eased installation processes supporting the clean energy transition despite ongoing net zero challenges.

EDUCATION SECTOR
Skills policy has shifted with ‘Skills England’ moving from the Department for Education to the Department for Work and Pensions under Secretary of State Pat McFadden while Jacqui Smith remains Skills Minister across both departments. Responsibility for education and training for those under nineteen remains with the Department for Education although apprenticeships may soon move to the DWP. The University of Worcester recently celebrated 1,700 graduates and is welcoming 3,500 new students with modest international growth in Nursing, Business and Education. The Help to Grow programme has supported 100 regional SMEs with a new cohort starting on 2 October followed by the Worcester Executive MBA launch. Dale Parmenter, CEO of DRPG, was awarded an Honorary Fellowship in recognition of his contribution to the region.

LEGAL SECTOR
The legal sector is evolving rapidly amid changing client expectations, technology advances and economic pressures. Clients are seeking clearer and more personalised services prompting investment in training and tools such as document and matter management systems. Many SME firms are streamlining back office functions and adopting automation in high-volume areas such as conveyancing and probate to free up fee earners for complex work. AI is emerging as a key driver enabling faster data analysis and reducing errors. Economic challenges are accelerating consolidation with many small firms under financial pressure. Regulatory changes including SRA reviews on interest income add complexity while recruitment and retention remain pressing issues driving pay rises for qualified staff.

REAL ESTATE SECTOR
Recruitment remains challenging with strong competition and salary pressures making it hard to attract newly qualified surveyors. August was quiet with some improvement in September but overall conditions remain difficult. Uncertainty around the Autumn Budget is causing delays in decision making while planning issues continue to hinder progress. Housing development is slow and heavily reliant on government funding though commercial development locally is steadier with reasonable demand.

RECRUITMENT SECTOR
The recruitment market presents a complex picture with vacancies decreasing month on month but skills shortages presenting supply side problems that continue to hamper growth. Concern is rising around the Employment Rights Bill that will start to come into effect next April which will bring major changes to how businesses need manage sick pay and unfair dismissal, on top of existing worries about fixed costs following the increase in NI in April 2025. Temporary staffing remains strong but permanent placements have softened, most likely due to Autumn Budget uncertainty. An HR conference in November aims to support businesses through these challenges.

HOUSING SECTOR
The housing sector faces regulatory pressures and rising National Insurance costs forcing cost reductions, lower bidding and increased investment in existing stock. Funding for housing associations remains positive with shared ownership steady. Skills shortages particularly in construction trades continue to challenge the sector. Two regeneration schemes are currently underway reflecting ongoing efforts to navigate these difficulties and drive progress.

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