Latest Updates From Surrey Chambers CEO – 2nd September 2025

2nd September 2025

The out of office messages are reducing daily as holidays come to an end and businesses build back up to the energised activity we are used to. Bookings for our upcoming events are going well, and the 18^th September is likely to see a capacity filled room at the Guildford Pavilion, where we are hosting our Annual Property lunch. With a great line- up of speakers we look forward to an inspiring event. Further details can be found here.

Call out to Manufacturers

A reminder about an exciting new initiative that has just been launched offering manufacturers an opportunity to benefit from expert advice and funding. In order to reach as many relevant businesses as possible all the organisations that support businesses have come together to deliver a face-to-face event on the 3^rd October at the factory of one of Surrey’s leading manufacturers, Vision Engineering. Delegates will get a full rundown on the great support that is on offer.

Anyone interested can book directly through our website

State of the economy and amplifying YOUR voice to government

Last week the latest inflation data was published by the Office of National Statistics, showing the rate of price rises in July ticked up to 3.8%. The inflation warning lights continue to flash, with July’s rate being slightly higher than most analysts had forecast. Prices are now rising at the fastest rate since the start of 2024, with little sign that inflation will be near the Bank’s target of 2% anytime soon. Our recent surveys show inflation remains a real concern for over half of our businesses. They tell us national insurance; wage growth and tariffs are all bubbling away in a cauldron of price pressures. While many firms are desperate to see further interest rate cuts, there’s now growing concern that persistent inflation will limit the scope for further reductions. It’s vital that policymakers ease the cost pressures on business. Our message to the Chancellor is clear – no new tax rises on business in the Budget. Firms can’t drive forward economic growth if they are continuing to face cost pressures from several directions.

Businesses will be pleased to hear that we are relentless on our mission to change Business Rates. With businesses having to contend with soaring energy bills, increased wages and fierce competition, these fixed costs are often the final straw, turning a viable business into a failed one. This tax punishes businesses for simply existing in a physical space, the very space we need to revitalise. This creates a deeply unfair and uneven playing field. The retail sector pays a disproportionate share of the tax, contributing 25 per cent of all business rates while accounting for a significantly smaller portion of the economy. While the government has offered piecemeal support such as business rates relief and transitional schemes, these have proven to be band-aid solutions and significant reform needs to be carried out.

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.