Suffolk Chamber of Commerce

Our membership team has been busy visiting members across the county.

We started at Roots Cafe Rougham Estate Farms, where Estate Manager Simon Eddell shared insights into their agri-business. The estate offers year-round attractions, including the popular Christmas shop, pick-your-own sunflowers and pumpkins, a garden shop, and estate walks. We also previewed their soon-to-open Meadow Room, perfect for corporate events and private functions.

Next, we met with Richard Jennings and Naomi Worden from SimpleClick's team, experts in website and app development. They shared exciting news about their expansion and new offerings for local businesses.

Lastly, we visited ActivLives another example of a fantastic Suffolk charity, promoting active, connected communities. Julie Stokes and Ian Hirst gave us a tour of the People's Community Garden, a true community hub.

At each stop, we discussed how Suffolk Chamber can support these businesses with member benefits like Chamber Protection offering members free HR, health & safety, tax and legal advice, documents and insurance and maximising the Chamber community.

Find out more about the diverse range of businesses within the Suffolk Chamber community visit our directory: https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/directory.html.
For membership help, contact us at [email protected].

Discover our member benefits: https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membership/member-benefits/

🎉 It’s our birthday! 🎉

Today marks 140 incredible years since we were officially incorporated as “The Ipswich Chamber of Commerce and Shipping” on the 27th August 1884. 🌟

For over a century, we have championed trade and commerce, uniting the voice of Suffolk business throughout our vibrant, innovative and diverse county. We are honoured to continue this important role within Ipswich and across the whole of Suffolk. We are stronger together when our voices are united for the whole county.

Our mission has stayed true through the decades: fostering a thriving business community for all! 💼✨

Celebrate with us! Explore our rich history and join us on this exciting journey at c140.suffolkchamber.co.uk.

Here’s to the next 140 years! 🥂

Celebrating 140 Years - Suffolk Chamber of Commerce The Suffolk Chamber's C140 project - honouring 140 years of Suffolk business, shaping tomorrow and celebrating diversity.

⏰ Deadline Reminder! ⏰

Don’t forget to submit your entries for the East Suffolk Business Awards by 31st August 2024.

Learn more and get ready to participate: https://lnkd.in/eraMSc8y

Join us in celebrating East Suffolk's business excellence! 🎉

🌟👋 Welcome, July's newest additions to our thriving business community! 👋🌟

🎉 We're delighted to extend a warm welcome to our latest new members! Your decision to join us is a testament to your commitment to growth and success.

💼 Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a budding start-up, or a seasoned professional branching out into new ventures, you've found your home here. Our community is a hub of innovation, collaboration, and endless opportunities.

🤝 Let's connect, collaborate, and elevate each other. Share your stories, insights, and aspirations – because together, we're stronger.

🚀 Get ready to unlock doors to new partnerships, insights, and possibilities. Your journey with us promises to be exciting and rewarding!

🎈 Once again, welcome to the community! Let's make this journey a memorable one filled with growth, connections, and success! 🥳✨

🌟 Did you miss the latest Safari Networking?🤝

This week our Safari Networking stopped off at The Coach House Suffolk in Lowestoft where we had the pleasure of hosting over 60 business leaders

A special thank you to Matthew water for chairing the event, ensuring a seamless experience for all, and thank you to all the businesses that attended.

Explore our upcoming events and secure your spot today: https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/events.html🎉

Don't miss out on the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with us!

🌟 Member Spotlight 🌟

💡 Curious about pensions? Join Lovewell Blake's twenty-minute online workshop to learn everything you need to know.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberevents_detail.html?mid=6F872348-B17F-45C7-A1BA-E978A33ABE6F

🎄 Book your Christmas party with TR Global Events and receive up to 10% off!

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberoffers_detail.html?oid=523D4C50-961E-4715-8F48-EAE7F5B61031

🏆 Prime Appointments Limited, a Suffolk & Essex recruitment agency, has been recognised with an East Anglia Fundraising Award.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membernews_detail.html?nid=6086741A-87AB-4522-BD83-A1EAA2EA91DD

Are you a Suffolk Chamber member looking to promote your business? 📢 Add your news articles, events and offers to the members area of our website for a chance to be featured in an upcoming membership Monday post!

🌟 At the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, we pride ourselves on connecting businesses across the county. It's one of our core strengths, and we're committed to providing our members with the best opportunities to grow, learn, and connect through our diverse range of events.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network at one of our lively Safari Networking events or prefer the elegance and sophistication of our distinguished Prestige Dinner, there’s an event tailored just for you. These events aren’t just about networking, they’re about forging lasting relationships, gaining valuable insights, and being part of a thriving business community.

Explore our events calendar today and discover how the Suffolk Chamber can support your business journey. 🚀

👉https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/events.html

🌟 Member Spotlight 🌟

✔ Suffolk Chamber Patron, Suffolk New College announce revamped Suffolk FutureSkills Fair with exhibition and sponsorship opportunities.

Find out more 👇
https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/latest-news/patron-news-suffolk-new-college-unveils-suffolk-futureskills-fair-a-revamped-skills-and-careers-event-for-young-people/

🏷️ GLO - Generate Leads Online offer Chamber Members free brand analysis.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberoffers_detail.html?oid=988FA973-DD0E-4FE3-B896-244BFC736E29

📢 Stowen Group launches a new division offering scaffolding solutions across all sectors.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membernews_detail.html?nid=9881B07A-0C24-43FB-8009-29980D554554

Are you a Suffolk Chamber member looking to promote your business? 📢 Add your news articles, events and offers to the members area of our website for a chance to be featured in an upcoming membership Monday post!

🌟 Member Spotlight 🌟

📅 Join The Jockey Club, in partnership with Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, for their Networking Meet Up.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberevents_detail.html?mid=00C9CCC6-9623-40EF-BD49-26932F743D1B

💰 Fern Management Services are offering a 20% on their business advisory review discount.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberoffers_detail.html?oid=7A5563B5-9A62-49CD-828A-64B78DE8533C

🌳 Green Light Trust spread the word on nature’s benefits.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membernews_detail.html?nid=C0A57A38-3C14-4E84-BA56-E19F3697917B

Are you a Suffolk Chamber member looking to promote your business? 📢 Add your news articles, events and offers to the members area of our website for a chance to be featured in an upcoming membership Monday post!

📅 Submit Your Entries Now! 📅

The East Suffolk Business Awards are accepting entries. Showcase your business achievements and stand a chance to be honoured among the best in East Suffolk.

Learn more and get ready to participate: https://lnkd.in/eraMSc8y

📅 Deadline: 31 August 2024

With thanks to all the sponsors and headline sponsor VC Cooke

Join us in celebrating East Suffolk's business excellence! 🎉

🌟👋 Welcome, June's newest additions to our thriving business community! 👋🌟

🎉 We're delighted to extend a warm welcome to our latest new members! Your decision to join us is a testament to your commitment to growth and success.

💼 Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a budding start-up, or a seasoned professional branching out into new ventures, you've found your home here. Our community is a hub of innovation, collaboration, and endless opportunities.

🤝 Let's connect, collaborate, and elevate each other. Share your stories, insights, and aspirations – because together, we're stronger.

🚀 Get ready to unlock doors to new partnerships, insights, and possibilities. Your journey with us promises to be exciting and rewarding!

🎈 Once again, welcome to the community! Let's make this journey a memorable one filled with growth, connections, and success! 🥳✨

🌟 Membership Monday 🌟

💡 Join Care Development East’s dementia awareness workshop or equality, diversity & inclusion training.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberevents_detail.html?mid=19543880-D8A1-4FC9-8FE8-B48E4A9F0551

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberevents_detail.html?mid=EDFFBFA3-2354-444D-AE0B-2520AEAF9909

🏷️ Receive a 25% discount on Westfield Health's annual health calendar or wellbeing plan.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberoffers_detail.html?oid=6B833DD9-1A90-48A6-956E-2FACEB82CF07

💯 aQ Wiring Systems Rockford acquire manufacturer and supplier of wire harnesses and electromechanical systems Rockford Components Limited.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membernews_detail.html?nid=045A69F1-E936-490C-A17F-5B5E217DED68

Are you a Suffolk Chamber member looking to promote your business? 📢 Add your news articles, events and offers to the members area of our website for a chance to be featured in an upcoming membership Monday post!

👩‍💼👨‍💼 Investing in your team’s development is key to staying competitive in today’s fast-paced world.

Our Innovation Skills Hub offers comprehensive training programs designed to enhance individual capabilities and improve organisational performance.

Join us on this exciting journey! Find out more here https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/support/training/

# SCISH

🌟 Member Spotlight 🌟

The Suffolk Chamber membership team have been out to visit a few businesses that are part of our network over the last few weeks.

The first visit was to Paddy & Scott's Coffee vibrant headquarters located on the picturesque Ipswich Waterfront where we caught up with their Head of Commercial Joseph Cordy. Having started in 2007 Paddy & Scotts are on a mission to fuel the ambitions of coffee growing communities and coffee lovers all over the world. Joseph updated the team on their coffee shop, local coffee roasting facility and their online shops for both personal use and workplace supplies.

The team then made their way up the A14 to Lawshall to visit Green Light Trust. Here they met with their Fundraising Development Officer Holly Harrington. Green Light Trust was formed in 1989 and is about building health, hope and happiness through the Power of Nature. Holly gave the team a tour of the facilities and talked through the different elements to the charity including their corporate offering and wellbeing days.

The Suffolk Chamber network showcases the vast landscape of diverse businesses operating in and around Suffolk. To learn more about our members, visit our members directory: https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/directory.html

Our membership team are on hand to assist member businesses. If you need any support please get in touch with the team via [email protected].

For information on the range of benefits available to our members, visit: https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membership/member-benefits/

📣 Suffolk International Trade Businesses 📣

A new Government, Brexit, and 'Brand Britain' - what would you say to the new Prime Minister? 🤔

With a new Government in place, your business voice has never been more important. The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, part of The British Chambers of Commerce, campaigns - and wins - on behalf of businesses on the key issues that matter, but to do this, we need your opinion.

Take just 10 minutes to complete the international trade survey, and share your reactions to some of the big topics for 2024: export barriers, Britain's place in the world, global conflicts, and what you would advise the new PM to prioritise immediately.

Your opinion directly shapes the national debate. These surveys are used extensively by the UK Government, Bank of England, and the media to understand what businesses think. This is your chance to put your views to the new Government.

🔗 Take the Survey Now 🔗https://research.britishchambers.org.uk/survey/selfserve/215e/trade2024

Make your voice heard and influence the future of UK business! 🗣️💼

🎉🌟 One week on, and what an unforgettable night! Our Annual Rooftop Garden Party was a hit! 🥂✨

The Suffolk business community came together in an extraordinary way, celebrating at the Willis rooftop with views across Ipswich and an atmosphere filled with laughter and connection. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us – your presence made the night magical! 💫

View the event gallery here https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/events/events-gallery/

A massive thank you to our sponsors, MHA Accountants for their unwavering support. 🙌 And to the other amazing local Suffolk businesses who made the evening unforgettable:
📸 Red Wren Studios – Your stunning photography captured the essence of the night perfectly 🍸 Revolution Bars – The cocktails added a touch of flair to the festivities. 🎨 Rebecca Osborne – Your live graphic art was a visual feast. 🎷 Miss Leeloo Sax – The saxophone tunes were the heart and soul of the party, setting the perfect vibe. 🎲 Barry Dye Entertainments – The giant games were a hit, bringing out the playful spirit in everyone. 🔤 Giant Gestures – The light-up letters added that extra sparkle to our evening. 📸 Glitz n Glamour Booths – The photobooth was a blast!(Don't miss your snaps here https://gallery.glitznglamourbooths.co.uk/suffolkchamberofcommerce/) All About Ipswich - the stylish deck chairs that added comfort and charm to our rooftop setting. 🪑✨

Here's to the Suffolk business community – stronger together!

Don’t miss out on future Chamber events here 🔗 https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/events.html

In light of the King's Speech, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has issued an initial response as follows:

“Whilst we will look for more detail in the days ahead, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is broadly appreciative of those pieces of legislation in the King’s Speech that seek to enable stronger and more sustainable economic growth. As such this appears to be an early and strategic confirmation of what businesses are looking for in general terms: a long-term plan, backed by a clear role for Government in then allowing the private sector to do what it does best: generate wealth and employment.

“In particular, we welcome the intentions behind the Planning and Infrastructure Bill as long as it does indeed accelerate the delivery of high quality infrastructure projects such as Ely/Haughley Junctions, improvements to the strategic roads in the county and improved 4G and 5G connectivity, as well as housing, the Better Buses Bill as rural isolation in Suffolk and access to work and study, especially for our younger citizens is a major drag factor in boosting business investment and household incomes and the English Devolution Bill, as we believe that Suffolk has suffered for too long from the ‘Whitehall knows best’ philosophy, which has consistently resulted in unfair funding and missed opportunities. However, we are concerned that any new powers will be limited to metro mayors and combined authorities - once again putting Suffolk at a disadvantage.

“For similar reasons, Suffolk Chamber likes the intent behind the Great British Energy Bill given our county and region’s enormous existing strengths in the renewables sector. Noting that the proposed company will be headquartered in Scotland, we think it vital that it also has a presence here in Suffolk to ensure the needs of existing and prospective energy companies are not overlooked and investment opportunities are maximised.”

🌟 Did you miss the latest Safari Networking?🤝

We had the pleasure of hosting over 130 business leaders at our most recent Safari Networking event held in the Sir Bobby Robson Suite at ITFC

A special thank you to Jules Shorrock for chairing the event, ensuring a seamless experience for all and Sara H for introducing the new Suffolk Chamber Skills Innovation Hub

Thank you to all the businesses that attended.

Explore our upcoming events and secure your spot today: https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/events.html

Don't miss out on the opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with us!

🚢 Discover the Power of International Trade with Suffolk Chamber of Commerce✈️

Read the latest International Trade update 🔗 https://mailchi.mp/suffolkchamber.co.uk/int-trade-news-july-24

Sign-up to receive this directly into your inbox 🔗https://lnkd.in/eRCvZZRS

📢We are proud to announce the launch of the Suffolk Chamber Innovation Skills Hub!

Our mission is to empower, upskill, and reskill the Suffolk business community, ensuring your workforce is future-ready.
Discover how our tailored training solutions can benefit your business.

🔗Find out more here https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/support/training/

📝Sign-up and register your interest for future training courses TODAY https://mailchi.mp/suffolkchamber/innovation-skills-hub

# SCISH

🌟 Member Spotlight 🌟

🔈 Join Larking Gowen, Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors's Autumn Business Breakfast featuring digital marketing expert Laura Bielinski.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberevents_detail.html?mid=25613C89-ADB9-4832-B481-F31EA38510A6

📚 Book a library space for your staff wellbeing day at with Suffolk Libraries UK

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberoffers_detail.html?oid=BAAFFAF2-8D97-472F-B3BD-B51902AA3211

⚡ Groundwork East are offering free Net Zero support for Suffolk SMEs.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membernews_detail.html?nid=B0044AE1-E583-4416-83D2-C97EA3E5071D

Are you a Suffolk Chamber member looking to promote your business? 📢 Add your news articles, events and offers to the members area of our website for a chance to be featured in an upcoming membership Monday post!

Join our Chamber Protection partners Quest Cover at this exclusive webinar forecasting employment and HR Changes Post Election


Date: 📅 17 July 2024

Time: 🕒 11am - 12pm

Stay ahead of the curve – join Quest for an in-depth examination of the implications brought by the new Labour Government. This session will cover essential updates to help you:

- Develop informed workplace strategies: Understand the legislative shifts and how they will affect your workforce management.

- Ensure legal compliance: Stay updated on the latest regulatory changes to avoid any legal pitfalls.

- Safeguard your business’s future: Equip your organisation with the necessary knowledge to navigate and thrive in a dynamic legal environment.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to arm your business with critical insights and strategies. Register now and ensure your business is prepared to thrive amidst the upcoming changes in employment and HR legislation.

Visit: https://tinyurl.com/4c2688pa

🌍 We’re Expanding! 🌍

The East Suffolk Business Awards are now open to ALL businesses in East Suffolk, reflecting our diverse and dynamic business community. Don’t miss your chance to be recognised!

Learn more and get ready to participate: https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/support/local-place-representation/east-suffolk/east-suffolk-business-awards/

📅 Deadline: 31 August 2024

With thanks to all the sponsors and headline sponsor VC Cooke

Join us in celebrating East Suffolk's business excellence! 🎉

🎉🏆 Huge Congratulations to the Winners and Finalists of the East Anglian Daily Times Business Awards! 🏆🎉

The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of this year's Business Awards winners and finalists. Your hard work, dedication, and innovation continue to inspire our community.

Here are the outstanding winners:

🌟 Small Business of the Year 🌟
Winner: Kingsfleet - Suffolk's Premier Independent Financial Advisers

🏅 Medium Business of the Year
Sponsored by Pound Gates Chartered Insurance Brokers
Winner: Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd

🏆 Large Business of the Year
Sponsored by Larking Gowen, Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors
Winner: Jackson Civil Engineering

⭐ Customer Excellence Award
Sponsored by Greater Anglia
Winner: Kingsfleet - Suffolk's Premier Independent Financial Advisers

🏅 Director of the Year
Sponsored by The Churchmanor Estates Company PLC
Winner: Jon Neal - Suffolk Mind

🎉 Employer of the Year
Sponsored by Waddington Brown
Winner: Morgan Sindall Construction

🌿 Environmental and Sustainability Award
Sponsored by East Wind
Winner: The Bildeston Crown

📈 Growth Business of the Year
Sponsored by Ashtons Legal LLP
Winner: AccuGrit

🏅 Positive Impact In the Community
Winner: New Wolsey Theatre

🚀 Start-Up of the Year
Winner: East Anglian Financial Planning

🏆 Suffolk Business of the Year
Sponsored by Suffolk Chamber of Commerce and Sizewell C
Winner: New Wolsey Theatre

Thank you to all the sponsors and participants for making this event a huge success. Here's to the continued growth and success of Suffolk's vibrant business community! 🌟

🌟 Member Spotlight 🌟

🌱 Discover the future of sustainable business with Advance Business Consultants.

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberevents_detail.html?mid=455DFCBE-CA89-4500-949E-74332873AFD9

✨ Enjoy 20% off two months PR services with Gatekeeper Communications!

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/memberoffers_detail.html?oid=86A130DC-D9A5-473C-8E5A-D4B9C105C597

🌟 ASD Limited expands by acquiring Atlantic Steel Processing assets!

Find out more 👇
https://my.suffolkchamber.co.uk/membernews_detail.html?nid=C4258F9D-95ED-4069-985E-51B557889260

Are you a Suffolk Chamber member looking to promote your business? 📢 Add your news articles, events and offers to the members area of our website for a chance to be featured in an upcoming membership Monday post!

🌍 Supporting Suffolk Businesses in International Trade!

The Suffolk Chamber International Trade Group (SCITG) recently gathered to bolster local businesses in international trade through valuable experience-sharing and insights from policy leaders.

The event featured Neil Bird from Gaston Schul Customs & Trade Control, who provided updates on customs changes, including the new Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) and the transition from CHIEF to CDS. Engaging discussions on customs challenges and knowledge sharing followed.

Special thanks to Stuart Gregory for chairing the event and to Challs International Ltd . for hosting. It was inspiring to learn about Challs' journey from a small bedroom to global success with brands like Buster, Alkimi, and Bin Buddy. Thank you, Edward Burchell, for the insightful tour!

Let's continue to support and grow our Suffolk businesses in the global market. 🌟

Find out more about the group and how to get involved https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/support/international-trade/news-resources/international-trade-group/

🎉 Congratulations to Suffolk’s eight newly elected MPs

- West Suffolk: Nick Timothy (Con)
- Ipswich: Jack Abbott (Lab)
- Bury St Edmunds: Peter Prinsley (Lab)
- Central Suffolk & North Ipswich: Patrick Spencer (Con)
- Suffolk Coastal: Jenny Riddell-Carpenter (Lab)
- South Suffolk: James Cartlidge (Con)
- Lowestoft: Jess Asato (Lab)
- Waveney Valley: Adrian Ramsey (Grn)

Nicholas Evans, President of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce:
“On behalf of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, I would like to congratulate the eight elected Suffolk MPs. As the county’s largest and most active business organisation, we look forward to working with them to secure the much-needed investment in Suffolk’s rail, mobile and road infrastructure and in boosting skills and household incomes.”

Paul Simon, Public Affairs Director of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce:
“This was clearly a reset election for both the county and the country. And this is now Suffolk’s once-in-a-generation chance to get a much fairer share of Government funding so that we can make our maximum contribution to sustained national prosperity, but this will only happen if we all work together with all of our MPs in a non-partisan manner. The Suffolk Convention, scheduled for October, aims at bringing together senior business, council, media, charity and health leaders with the new MPs to hammer out and coordinate the county’s big asks of the new Parliament – and deliver them. Let the Suffolk revival begin!”

Suffolk Chamber looks forward to campaigning with them to ensure that Suffolk gets higher levels of investment in rail, road, 5G and skills, plus a replacement for the outdated business rates system.

Next Stop: The Suffolk Convention, a new initiative to coordinate how we can all work together to make our case to Westminster and Whitehall

Together, let's continue to shape a better future for Suffolk business.

Find out more via our General Election page: https://www.suffolkchamber.co.uk/latest-news/general-election-the-results/