As the UK navigates a period of economic uncertainty, businesses are being urged to take part in the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) – a vital tool that shapes national policy and captures the real-time experiences of businesses across the country.
Described as a “compass” for policymakers, the QES is the UK’s largest and longest-running survey of business sentiment. More than 5,000 companies contribute each quarter, offering insights that help guide decisions by the Bank of England, HM Treasury, the Office for Budget Responsibility and international institutions including the IMF.
A crucial moment for business voices
With economic pressures fluctuating across regions and sectors, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce says it has never been more important for businesses to make their voices heard.
The survey gathers frontline intelligence on sales, cash flow, recruitment intentions, skills development, investment plans and cost pressures. Unlike official statistics, which are often published months later, the QES acts as a leading indicator of the economy’s direction.
“It is critical that local businesses make their voices heard,” said Charlotte Horobin, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. “The QES turns individual experiences into national influence. If we don’t speak up about what’s really happening on the ground, decisions will be made without us. We need to hear your thoughts, your pressures and your priorities, because they shape the future of our region.”
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has previously acknowledged the value of the survey, noting: “We all benefit from data and surveys, including the informative recruitment and economic surveys conducted by the British Chambers of Commerce.”
Local Insights That Shape National Decisions
The Chamber emphasises that the UK economy is far from uniform. Each region faces its own challenges – from recruiting skilled staff, to meeting export demands, to addressing infrastructure and connectivity needs.
Without strong local participation, national policymakers risk working with an incomplete picture. Regional insights allow government to design more balanced and effective economic interventions.
Data that makes a difference
Throughout recent crises, QES has proven its influence:
- During the pandemic, QES findings were central to the case for furlough, business rates relief and emergency loan schemes.
- During inflation spikes, early QES warnings about rising cost pressures helped inform support for energy bills and supply chain disruption.
By channelling thousands of business experiences into clear, consistent evidence, the survey helps ensure decisions taken in Westminster reflect the realities of firms nationwide.
Just minutes to make your voice heard
Completing the QES takes only a few minutes – but those minutes help shape policies that affect growth, investment and jobs across the UK.
Businesses of every size and sector are encouraged to participate and ensure their region’s needs are recognised.
Take part in the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XYTJ82W
Further Information
- QES Q3 2025 report: https://www.britishchambers.org.uk/news/2025/10/bruised-firms-not-ready-for-another-budget-battering/
- BCC Insights Unit publications: https://www.britishchambers.org.uk/insights-unit/publications-and-commentary