Business Focus: Inverness Chamber data helps give Highland business a powerful voice

by Stewart Nicol, chief executive Inverness Chamber of Commerce

I had a really useful meeting with Scottish Government civil servants last week in which we explored how ministers and Highland businesses could best engage through the range of opportunities offered by Inverness Chamber of Commerce as the region’s leading business membership organisation.

As the strong voice of business for the city and the wider Highlands and Islands, I recognise we have a critical role to play in arguing for the betterment of our region through, for example, improved transport links; provision of leading-edge digital infrastructure, increased housing provision and the transformation of city and town centres to ensure they are the beating heart of our business lives.

In having this kind of dialogue though, I am aware there is an inevitable degree of tension around giving politicians of any party a platform and the need for us as a business community to strongly, even forcibly, articulate our needs and aspirations.

However, I am convinced members of Inverness Chamber of Commerce, and Highland businesses have a powerful mechanism to ensure their voice is clearly heard by those in government at every level across our nation. The Quarterly Economic Indicator (QEI) is the longest running data series of its kind. It provides a regular and respected insight into the fortunes of key Scottish sectors.

Our QEI focuses on key sectors that matter to our city and region – manufacturing, construction, finance and business services, tourism and retail, measuring a number of indicators including business optimism, investment and performance to provide comprehensive understanding of the business landscape.

A highly respected and influential publication, the QEI clearly plays an essential role in setting the business agenda and informing the most senior levels of government and policy making of the needs of local chambers and their members. Given that Inverness Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to actively connecting and representing businesses across the Highlands to support their growth, I believe the QEI provides a unique opportunity for our businesses to have their voices heard. Email info@inverness-chamber.co.uk to find out how to contribute.

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