Latest Updates From Surrey Chambers CEO – 23rd July 2025

23rd July 2025

As July draws to a close and the summer quiet settles over August, Surrey Chambers of Commerce is already gearing up to welcome you back in September with a packed programme of events, important updates, and fresh opportunities to connect and grow. Here’s what’s on the horizon and what you need to know:

Generation Next Team Building Day

We’re excited to promote the Generation Next Team Building Day Activity and Lunch on the 11th of September at The Oakwood, Esher an energetic half-day experience tailored for young professionals aged 18–35. This engaging outdoor event will combine adventure, teamwork, and professional development, followed by a networking lunch. If you love teamwork and networking don’t miss this chance to connect with fellow next-gen leaders in an unforgettable setting.

Annual Property Lunch

If you are more interested in construction and property, then this next event is for you. On the 18^th September at Guildford Pavillion, you can join us for one of our most anticipated annual gatherings – the Annual Property Lunch. Designed for professionals in the property and construction sectors, this event features expert speakers, valuable networking, and a delicious two-course lunch. This year’s speakers will explore pressing industry issues and trends shaping the built environment.

Business Concerns Over Employment Rights Bill

Recent research from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) highlights growing unease among UK businesses regarding the proposed Employment Rights Bill. Key findings include:

• 33% of businesses believe trade union reforms will negatively affect operations.
• Only 2% see the proposals as positive.
• 79% feel the wider impact of new legislation is not being properly assessed.
• 77% believe policy changes aren’t happening at the right pace.
• 69% cite tax, employment, and regulation changes as barriers to growth.

While some consultation has taken place, the legislation still fails to strike the right balance and we will continue to challenge the government on the details.

Click here to read the full press release

Recruitment Stalls Amid Cost Pressures

According to the BCC’s latest Quarterly Recruitment Outlook, hiring activity has remained largely unchanged in Quarter 2:

• 60% of firms reported no change in staff levels.
• 23% increased headcount – a slight rise from 20% in Q1.
• Just 25% expect to recruit in the next quarter, down from 27%.

Key challenges include the rising cost of employment, National Insurance contributions, and ongoing skills shortages. Firms are already adjusting – reducing hiring plans, pausing training budgets, and reassessing workforce growth. We urgently need flexible training pathways, targeted workforce support, and tax stability.

Read the report here

Local Skills Improvement Plan

Surrey Chambers of Commerce was delighted to publish our Local Skills Improvement Plan Progress report at the end of June. The LSIP is helping Surrey and Hampshire build a stronger, more responsive workforce by aligning training with employer needs, raising awareness of career opportunities, improving access to clear job pathways, and fostering better collaboration between educators and businesses—supporting long-term growth in key sectors. The report is available here but any businesses keen to work with training providers to influence provision please do contact us.

Surrey Chambers of Commerce can be reached on 01483 735540, info@surrey-chambers.co.uk, @surreychambers www.surrey-chambers.co.uk

We are always happy to help businesses find what they need to help them grow and prosper.