Our mission at the Bridgwater Chamber is to provide an environment where all Bridgwater businesses can flourish and prosper. We use our influence as the voice of Bridgwater Business to lobby decision makers including local councils and the local Member of Parliament.

We also provide the opportunity for local businesses to meet one another, to network and listen to key speakers on subjects that can benefit their business.

We have been busy here at the Bridgwater Chamber since I joined in July. Businesses have had the opportunity to,

• Learn about the Gravity project right on our doorstep, which will bring a huge amount of investment into the local area.
• Take tips from the South West Cyber Resilience Centre about how to shield their business from Cyber Crime.
• Listen and question the local Member of Parliament and the Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner on business related matters.

There is so much more planned for the year ahead including,

• Learning about the business opportunities available through the Hinkley Supply Chain.
• A Women in Business event discussing Steps to Create more Balance in Your Life.
• Listening and questioning Rebecca Pow MP in her role as a DEFRA Minister about The Road to Net Zero and the role businesses can play to achieve Net Zero.

To see all of our events and sign up to join one please visit our website www.bridgwaterchamber.org.uk/chambers-events

The business community really has been through quite an unstable period. Just when we thought we were getting over some of the biggest impacts that Covid created, along came the supply chain challenges that the conflict in Ukraine created. All of this led to a cost-of-doing-business crisis, with the increase in energy prices being the one of the most obvious concerns. As we look to the immediate future, not only are businesses facing spiralling costs but the cost-of-living squeeze and the recession on our doorstep will be a real challenge as we go into 2023.

I know that the business community will do all it can to overcome these many challenges because we are some of the most adaptable, innovative, forward-thinking, and ambitious people. The Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce will continue to support businesses and help to provide the growth opportunities you need.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2023

Join the Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce today www.bridgwaterchamber.org.uk/product/membership