Economic Growth 22 October 2026
Inflation Continues to Cast a Shadow over Firms
Responding to the latest inflation data published by the Office for National Statistics, Caterina Batog, Research and Economics Analyst at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“Ahead of next week’s Budget, today’s data showing CPI rose to 3.5% in September is a stark reminder of the growing price pressures in the UK economy. Once again fuel prices were the main driver behind a slightly higher than expected rise.
“Inflation is casting a dark shadow over the businesses we represent, who are already struggling with a succession of high costs.
Economic Growth 21 October 2026
Public sector pressures build as AI scrutiny weighs on the dollar
UK labour market figures remain inconclusive, while public sector employment trends raise fiscal concerns
French authorities move to contain unrest, but EUR underperformance persists
Ongoing questions around AI investment returns continue to weigh on the US dollar
Next Generation, Skills Development 21 October 2026
Shock fall in unemployment a boost for the Government but UK’s NEET crisis persists
The drop in UK unemployment to 4.7% provides a boost for the economy, reversing a worrying trend marked by falling vacancies and falling confidence. This follows the upbeat news from the IMF last week that the economy is expected to grow by 1.3% this year, placing the Chancellor in a better-than-expected position as we approach the Autumn Budget.
However, this should not be mistaken for a decisive turning point. The emerging picture for 2027 is one of an economy marked by weak recruitment and cautious business confidence, conditions that are likely to slow down growth in the months ahead.
Business Growth & Development 20 October 2026
Hegarty brings over 100 business professionals together at Peterborough Cathedral to celebrate the city’s future
Local law firm Hegarty welcomed over 100 business professionals to Peterborough Cathedral on Tuesday 13th October for a special networking event exploring the regeneration, investment and partnerships shaping the city’s future.
Organised, hosted and sponsored by Hegarty, founders of Your Business Network, Peterborough Business Network in the ‘Heart of the City’ was delivered in partnership with Peterborough Cathedral as part of its Heart of the City campaign.
Business Growth & Development, Economic Growth 20 October 2026
More Than a Bus Ticket – Businesses Encouraged to Get on Board to Boost Local Economy
Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire’s biggest bus operator has made an open offer to local businesses to promote themselves on bus tickets, as it aims to create “more than just a bus ticket”.
Stagecoach East is aiming to use its tickets and app to promote discounts on local products and services that may be of interest to bus passengers, from discounts on entry to local attractions and leisure activities, to money off sweet treats or shopping experiences.
Awards 20 October 2026
Wyboston Lakes Resort shortlisted for two prestigious industry awards
Wyboston Lakes Resort has been shortlisted for two prestigious industry awards recognising its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace.
The resort has been selected by the judges of the highly coveted inclusion In Awards as a finalist for the categories for Inclusion Maturity Curve – Leadership and Inclusion Maturity Curve – Most Progress in Hospitality, Tourism, Leisure and Retail.
Economic Growth 20 October 2026
Growth Welcome But More Breathing Space Needed
Responding to the latest GDP data, published this morning by the Office for National Statistics, Stuart Morrison, Research Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“Ahead of the budget, growth of 0.7% in the three months to August is welcome and a positive indicator of business resilience despite challenging economic conditions.
“This expansion was driven entirely by services, led by professional, scientific and technical activities, and information and communication, while production and construction both fell. Computer programming and consultancy has been the largest single industry contributor to three-month growth for six months in a row.
International 20 October 2026
Exports Lagging As Economy Grows
Reacting to the latest ONS trade data, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“July’s improved export performance was not sustained in August, and for goods trade it almost completely reversed. Looking at the three-month picture, goods exports also fell, with the EU seeing the biggest drop.
“Services trade was steady, but growth was slow in August and flat across the three months. It is concerning that, while there is evidence the economy is proving robust, trade is falling behind, especially around overseas goods sales.
Economic Growth 20 October 2026
Budget Must Help Ease Jobs Market Pressure
Reacting to the latest labour market data from the ONS, Patrick Milnes, Head of People and Work at the British Chambers of Commerce, said:
“While it’s welcome that unemployment eased slightly in the three months to August, the jobless figure remains stubbornly high at 4.7%.
“With the number of vacancies falling further, urgent action is needed in the Budget to change the dynamics around hiring.