Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith, CBE, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “We have been calling on the UK Government for several months to set out what contingency plans for business would look like if further restrictions were needed this winter. Yet again, firms are now being asked to make changes at the very last minute. Restrictions will also impact on consumer behaviour with knock on effects which could risk the fragile recovery, order books and revenues. “Many businesses have only just begun to get back on their feet and this move will inevitably damage business confidence. Critically, firms need to know that the Government will support them through this next period. “The Government must once again stand shoulder to shoulder with business and provide a package of support to ensure that we get through a challenging winter without serious damage to our economic recovery.” On Work From Home “A return to advice that staff should work from home ‘where they can’ will come at a huge cost to swathes of businesses. “While many firms now have well established remote or hybrid working practices, which will provide some resilience, there will be many more that will be badly affected by reduced footfall in our towns and city centres. “This will impact on business revenues at a time when many needed to have a prosperous festive season. We need to have grant support in place for all firms affected and their supply chains.” On Covid Passports “We need to immediately see full details from Government of how businesses will be expected to implement this policy. “Chamber businesses have told us repeatedly that this could prove difficult to implement and police effectively without comprehensive support and clear guidance. The full backing of Government and authorities is needed in enforcing this policy which can often put staff at risk of harassment or even violence. “In addition, they will need to understand urgently where legal responsibility for compliance with the policy sits. Businesses will have a strong preference for legal responsibility to sit with individuals to comply, as it does with facemasks.” “Firms will also want early clarity on whether booster shots will play any part in the scheme.” On Self Isolation Changes “We welcome the pragmatic step to allow contacts of Omicron cases to leave self-isolation per daily negative lateral flow test results. This will give businesses providing critical services a chance to maintain staff levels at a time when these are already strained by labour shortages and will help to avoid another ‘pingdemic’.”
Yesterday, the UK government announced that it has moved to Plan B Coronavirus restrictions in England. See BCC’s response to the announcement here. The key measures to note include: From Friday 10 December: The legal requirement to wear a face mask has been extended to most public indoor venues, including theatres and cinemas. There will be exemptions where it is not practical, such as when eating, drinking, exercising and singing. From Monday 13 December: The re-introduction of working from home where possible. Employers were advised to use the rest of week to discuss arrangements with employees. Where employees have to go to their workplace, they are advised to reduce contacts to reduce transmission. From Wednesday 15 December: The NHS Covid Pass will be mandatory for entry into nightclubs and venues where large crowds gather. This includes unseated indoor venues with more than 500 people, unseated outdoor venues with more than 4,000 people and any venue with more than 10,000 people. The NHS Covid Pass can still be obtained with two doses of the vaccine, but this will be kept under review as the boosters roll out. Alternatively, a negative lateral flow test can be shown. There would be a small number of exemptions for medical reasons and for those on clinical trials. Businesses can download the NHS Pass Verifier which will scan someone’s vaccine passport and hold the data within the NHS, so removing any barrier or GDPR concern. Daily tests will be introduced for Omicron contacts rather than self-isolation to keep people safe while minimising the disruption to daily life.
The UK economy will grow at a slower pace than expected with trade set to lag significantly behind the wider recovery, according to the British Chambers of Commerce’s (BCC) latest economic forecast. UK Economic Outlook – 2021The leading business group has downgraded its expectations for UK GDP growth in 2021 from 7.1% to 6.8%. The downgrade reflects the expectation that the UK’s economic recovery will stall in the final quarter of 2021. However, GDP growth of 6.8% would still be the strongest outturn since official records began in 1949.1 following the historic contraction of 9.7% in 2020. Following GDP growth of 1.3% in Q3, UK GDP growth is forecast to slow to 0.5% in Q4 2021, as staff shortages, supply chain disruption and rising inflation stifle activity. Concern over the Omicron variant is also expected to weigh on Q4 growth by triggering some hesitancy among consumers to socialise and spend. Consequently, the UK economy is only expected to return to its pre-pandemic level in Q2 2022, one quarter later than predicted in the BCC’s previous forecast. UK Economic Outlook – 2022GDP growth is now projected to slow down by more than expected to 4.2% in 2022, from our previous forecast of 5.2%. The 2022 downgrade largely reflectsa softer outlook for consumer spending as the squeeze on incomes from high inflation limits the gains from an increasingly robust labour market and the anticipated running down of household savings built-up during lockdowns. That said, consumer spending is still expected to be the main driver of the UK economy next year. The downgrade also reflects the anticipated squeeze on activity from ongoing staff shortages, supply chain disruption and rising cost pressures. Manufacturing is expected to be the worst hit with output growth revised downwards by 2.1 percentage points for 2022, followed by construction (revised down by 0.9 percentage points). TradeTrade is forecast to make a negative contribution to UK GDP over the forecast period. UK exports are forecast to decline by 2.8% this year and remain 14.9% (£27.7 billion) lower than their pre-pandemic level by the end of the forecast period in Q4 2023. In contrast, overall UK GDP is projected to be 3.4% higher than its pre-pandemic level by the end of the forecast period. This reflects the challenging outlook for UK exporters amid the ongoing disruption to international trade flows from Covid and continued post-Brexit disruption to trade with the EU. Inflation and Interest Rates The rising cost of imported raw materials and higher energy prices, are expected to lift CPI inflation to a peak of 5.2% in Q2 2022, which if realised would be the highest rate since September 2011. However, if the current global supply chain disruption eases in the second half of 2022 as assumed in the BCC’s latest forecast, inflation is expected to drift back towards the Bank of England’s 2% target by the middle of 2023. UK interest rates are projected to remain on hold at next week’s Monetary Policy Committee meeting with concerns over the impact of the Omicron variant on the economy likely to delay the anticipated rate hike. Two interest rate rises are forecast over 2022 – 15 percentage points in February 2022 and 25 percentage points in November 2022. A further 25 percentage points interest rate rise is expected in 2023, thereby fully reversing the pandemic response interest rate cuts in March 2020. The BCC forecast assumes no renewal of lockdown restrictions. The reintroduction of such measures would lead to revisions in the BCC’s next forecast.Commenting on the forecast, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Our latest outlook suggests that the loss of momentum in the third quarter was more than just a temporary blip, with UK growth forecast to be more subdued for a sustained period as supply disruption, staff shortages and surging inflation limits activity. “The downgrades to our forecast reflect a moderating outlook for key areas of the UK economy, including consumer spending and trade. Consumer spending is likely to be more restrained than expected over the near term from a combination of negative real wage growth and stretched household finances amid rising inflation. “Trading conditions for UK exporters are expected to remain difficult over the forecast period with the lingering impact of Covid and Brexit expected to weigh on trade flows for some time to come. “While our latest forecast suggests that interest rates will rise sooner rather than later, with the current inflationary surge largely driven by supply side constraints and global price pressures, raising rates is likely to do little to curb the current spike in consumer prices. “The risks to the outlook remain tilted to the downside. The Omicron variant could stall the recovery if it triggers a prolonged reluctance among consumers to spend or a renewed supply shock by exacerbating current staff shortages through a new ‘pingdemic’ and driving more supply chain disruption.” Responding to the forecast, Hannah Essex, Co-Executive Director the British Chambers of Commerce, added: “It’s clear that the UK economy is not out of the woods yet. There remains a great deal of uncertainty for businesses as the arrival of the Omicron variant adds to the difficulties they face alongside rising costs, supply chain disruption and labour shortages. “Since the summer, we have been calling for the Government to give firms a clear contingency plan should restrictions once again become necessary to protect public health. If firms are to weather more challenging conditions in the next few months, they need to have confidence that support will be provided to those facing a significant impact on their ability to trade, including reduced footfall. “It is also more vital than ever that the Government’s Supply Chain Advisory Group and Industry Taskforce start to provide some practical solutions to the supply and labour shortages that are continuing to weigh down on the economic recovery. “Our disappointing forecast for exports underscores the need to address the key pressures facing traders. The UK-EU trade agreement needs to be built upon and applied in ways which cut the current red tape, costs and burdens on businesses. Significant issues must be resolved so that exports can become a driving force in our recovery from the pandemic. “With the planned rise in National Insurance yet to take effect businesses are facing a continuing squeeze on their cashflow. There should be no further policy measures that add to the upfront cost of doing business for the remainder of this Parliament to give firms room to recover.” Key points in the forecast:
UK GDP growth forecasts for 2021 and 2022 downgraded from 7.1% to 6.8%, and 5.2% to 4.2% respectively. UK GDP growth forecast for 2023 has been upgraded from 2.1% to 2.3%
Following the Q3 2021 growth of 1.3%, quarter-on-quarter GDP growth forecast at 0.5% in Q4, (down from our previous forecast of 1.6%)
Household consumption is now forecast to grow at 4.0% in 2021, 6.9% in 2022 and 2.7% in 2023, down from 5.5% in 2021, 7.6% for 2022 and 2.8% in 2023 in our previous forecast
BCC expects UK exports to decline by 2.8% in 2021, before growth of 4.9% in 2022 and 2.7% in 2023, compared to import growth of 1.2%, 6.2% and 3.1%
Business investment forecast is for a decline of 0.6% in 2021, before growth of 5.1% in 2022 and 2.6% in 2023
BCC expects a UK unemployment rate of 4.5% in 2021, 4.1% in 2022 and 3.8% in 2023, compared to the previous forecast of 4.9%, 4.7% and 4.4% respectively
CPI inflation is expected to peak at 5.2% in Q2 2022. Inflation is then expected to drop back to the Bank of England’s 2% target in Q2 2023
UK official interest rates are expected to start rising in February 2022 (15 ppts), followed by a second-rate rise (25 ppts) in November 2022. A further interest rate rise (25 ppts) is expected in 2023
In terms of sectors:
Growth in manufacturing output has been downgraded from 8.6% to 6.8% for 2021 and from 5.1% to 3.0% in 2022. Expected growth in 2023 has been upgraded from 2.0% to 2.5%
Growth in construction output has been downgraded from 13.8% to 13.7% for 2021 and from 3.8% to 2.9% in 2022. Expected growth in 2023 is unchanged at 2.8%
Growth in services output is forecast at 7.0% in 2021 and 2.0% in 2023, unchanged from previous forecast. Expected growth in 2022 has been downgraded from 5.6% to 4.8%
November Update and future changes for January 2022 On 31 December 2020, the UK left the EU’s Single Market and Customs Union. This has meant change for business and for citizens, including new processes and requirements. The first phase of such changes came in on 1 January this year. The Government put in place the staffing, infrastructure, and IT to support this. On 14 September 2021, the Government announced changes to the timetable for introducing import border control processes in the Border Operating Model. The existing controls that were introduced on 1 January 2021 will continue to remain in place. This includes export requirements for all goods and full customs declaration requirements for controlled goods at the point of import. Businesses have faced a range of challenges over recent months as they recover from the global pandemic which has impacted supply chains across Europe. This is being felt particularly by the agri-food sector, where new requirements on importing products of animal origin were due to be introduced in October 2021. Rather than introduce these controls at this time, the Government has listened to those who have called for a new approach to give businesses more time to adjust. Under the revised timetable: • Full customs declarations and controls will be introduced on 1 January 2022 as previously announced, although Safety and Security Declarations will now not be required until 01 July 2022. • Pre-notification requirements of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) goods, which were due to be introduced on 01 October 2021, will now be introduced on 01 January 2022. • From 01 July 2022, certification and physical checks will be introduced for: – All remaining regulated animal by-products. – All regulated plants and plant products – All meat and meat products. – All remaining high-risk food not of animal origin. • From 01 September 2022, certification and physical checks will be introduced for all dairy products • From 01 November 2022, certification and physical checks will be introduced for all remaining regulated products of animal origin, including composite products and fish products. • High-priority plants and plant products checks will transfer from place of destination to designated BCPs and control points from 01 July 2022. • Live animal physical checks will take place at designated border control posts where a facility is operational at the point of entry. Where there is no designated BCP, checks will remain at destination for other ports of entry until sufficient BCPs are operational. Checks at Sevington inland BCP and designated airport BCPs will commence from 01 July 2022. This will provide businesses with further time to prepare for changes at the border and minimise disruption as the economy gradually recovers, as the Government recognises the scale and significance of the challenges businesses have been facing in dealing with the impacts of coronavirus whilst also being asked to adjust to the new requirements. We will continue to give businesses the support they need to trade effectively with the EU, including through export helplines, webinars with experts and support via our network of 300 international trade advisers. For the January 2022 changes you can view the Border Operating Model on the link below or download the pdf:https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1034308/20211117_November_BordersOPModel_Final.pdf Our International Training dates for 2022 are here – so make sure you book your places early to avoid disappointment. If you would like to book a place or you have any questions then please get in touch with the International team on: [email protected] You can view a full list of our upcoming training dates in 2022 here
We love our International Team! They’re an incredibly hard working bunch and they’ve supported Norfolk businesses throughout the intracies of Brexit and the difficulties of the pandemic, and all with complete calm and reassurance (and lots of tea and hobnobs)! We grabbed five minutes with our new apprentice Ethan Saunders-Johnson to chat about his apprenticeship… What were you doing before you joined the Norfolk Chambers? My last job before joining the International team at the Norfolk Chambers was working as a First Responder for a Private Ambulance Service, which Provided me with a vast array of skills I can put to use here and further develop at the Norfolk Chambers. However, between these jobs I had a 2 month period of unemployment. The first month was for me to recuperate from the non-stop hours I was working at my previous job to prepare myself for my next venture into a new career, as I believe avoiding burnout and knowing your own limitations are key to success. The second month was to ensure that I only took a job offer if I believed that it was the perfect fit for me, and not to compromise on my future. During these months off I further studied Business fundamentals, Market structure, NFT’s & NFT marketplaces and Interpreting balance sheets to aid in my stocks, shares and cryptocurrency trading which I used, and continue to use, to avoid using savings to cover bills. What was interesting/attractive to you about working within the International Trade department? The International Trade Department piqued my interest due to the level of attention to detail required for the role, and as a perfectionist I am excited for the challenge to keep my skills sharp. It’s a complicated area with a huge amount of training needed – what do you think will make you great for the role? I’m an ambitious person, sometimes too ambitious, but I believe that if we all strive for perfection we can achieve greatness. I am keen to face this challenge head on to further develop my skills and knowledge in my repertoire. Every Chamber Member has their own Trading Card and ‘name’ – yours will be created soon and your photos booked, is there a name you’d love to have? This is something I have to think about – I love the idea and I will have to ask the team for their input! What will be your Christmas party tipple? Either a sweet and refreshing fruity cider or a warming rioja. What are you looking forward to in 2022? I am looking forward to achieving my BCC Certification, completing my apprenticeship and continuing my personal and professional development to establish a secure foundation upon which to build my career. Ethan will be in expert hands, as he joins Julie Austin,our International Quality Manager and Sam Martin, who recently passed his own apprenticeship and is now our International trade Co-ordinator. We are all really looking forward to working with Ethan, and watching him get stuck in to his apprenticeship! Best of luck to you Ethan!
Pupils from Mile Cross Primary School entered the Dragons’ Den this week, in the finale of a project aimed at inspiring young business minds and raising aspirations. Teams pitched their business ideas to the real-life dragons from Norwich’s business community, with the overall winners receiving a virtual investment into their idea. Pupils were mentored by the current Norwich School Lower Sixth, and were tasked with creating business plans, marketing strategies and financial projections for their business. Ideas ranged from customised key chains, detachable football boot studs to panic alarm jewellery and solar boosted roller boots! All pitches impressed the judges with their clear purpose, marketing strategies and professional pitches on the day. The runners up were ‘ACDM Sport’ with their waterproof and washable football boots and the winners were ‘We Are ElectroAbs’ for their indoor/outdoor cycle, made with sustainable materials, that will charge your laptop/mobile phone while you ride! Norwich School received the support of the Business Dragons, Nova Fairbank, Chief Operating Officer at Norfolk Chambers of Commerce, Caroline Jarrold, the Sheriff of Norwich and Tom White, Head of Economics and Business at Norwich school. Commenting on the finale, Nova Fairbank said: “The students pitching in the Dragon’s Den have done an amazing job. Their presentations were well thought out and they had clearly done lots of work and research before presenting enthusiastic and interesting pitches. The Dragons had a truly difficult decision to select the winning bid and congratulations to ‘We Are ElectroAbs’ on their winning pitch. The talent and energy in the room was brilliant and I think we may have seen several future entrepreneurs! Well done to all the teams.” Fellow Dragon, Caroline Jarrold said: “It was so impressive to see the pitches from the students and the creativity of their ideas. It must have been quite a daunting situation for them and they did incredibly well in presenting their proposals and business plans. It is heartening to see a collaboration of this nature between the two schools and all of the pupils should be very proud of their achievements. I felt that we saw some really good signs of enterprise and imagination and hope that the students will look back on a day which gave them a great opportunity to work together, develop ideas and skills and build their confidence for the future.”
Our International Training dates for 2022 are here – so make sure you book your places early to avoid disappointment. If you would like to book a place or you have any questions then please get in touch with the International team on: [email protected]
Covid Co.nfidence for Face-To-Face Events We are conscious that many people will be concerned about attending face-to-face events in a ‘pre-pandemic’ way. We have therefore introduced our COVID Co.nfidence policy which will be adhered to for each event we host.
Cancellation – If you have to cancel your ticket at short notice due to testing positive for Covid, having Covid symptoms, or having to self-isolate we will swap your ticket to a future event of your choice with no cancellation fees
We do not require you to wear a mask, however, if you feel more comfortable wearing a mask then we totally understand
We ask that you refrain from shaking hands as not everyone feels comfortable with doing so
We highly recommend that you take a Lateral Flow Test prior to attending any of our events, and if you do test positive or show any Covid symptoms, please do not attend.
In order for us to deliver events safely, we ask that you book with confidence and book early – due to the nature of the pandemic we are having to put orders in for catering much earlier than normal to adhere to attendee numbers. This may result in ticket sales ending early
If you feel uncomfortable attending face-to-face networking events, we are still running our Chamber Co.nnect Virtual networking event once a month for members only, along with webinars and other virtual events for the whole business community
The new export strategy kickstarts ‘Race to a Trillion’ as DIT publishes 12-point plan to help UK businesses hit £1 trillion in exports.The Government today launches an ambitious new ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’ plan to help businesses across the UK double exports and sell their world-class products around the globe. The 12-point export strategy – published today (Wednesday 17 November) by the Department for International Trade – will give businesses the tools they need to become a nation of exporters and reap the benefits of our free trade deals. It includes an Export Support Service that offers a one-stop shop for exporting advice, and the launch of a new UK Tradeshow Programme better-tailored to help businesses, particularly those outside London and the South East, to attend and promote their products around the world. DIT will also be expanding its Export Academy – launched in October – to roll it out across all of the UK including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The academy will invite owners and managers of SMEs to access masterclasses, roundtables and networking events that help them overcome common challenges first-time exporters face. The UK exported £600 billion in goods and services last year (1), but only around one in ten GB businesses currently export (2) – with the number of goods exporters falling behind continental competitors like Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands (3). Unlocking the UK’s exporting potential will help level up the country and boost the UK’s economy, with government commissioned research estimating that exports supported 6.5 million jobs across the UK in 2016, and showing that exporters pay higher wages. Separate analysis shows that goods exporting businesses are on average 21 percent more productive. International Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan is calling on businesses to ‘Race to a Trillion’ by seizing huge untapped opportunities on offer in the world’s fast-growing markets. Secretary of State for International Trade, Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, said:
This is a defining moment in our national trading story. As we agree ambitious new trade deals around the world, it is more vital than ever that businesses across the UK take advantage of these opportunities and unleash their full exporting potential. Our export strategy will help more businesses start exporting and help those who already export to sell more products to more countries. Reaching £1 trillion worth of exports by the end of this decade means more jobs, more opportunities and higher wages helping the UK to level up and build back better.
This week, DIT is running the inaugural International Trade Week, featuring a series of over 100 events and workshops across the country hosted by expert trade advisers aimed to help businesses to take advantage of the export support available to them. Minister for Exports, Mike Freer MP, said:
We know businesses are at different points on their exporting journey. Some are already successful exporters but want to sell more products or reach new markets. Others are yet to take the leap and export for the first time. Whatever your story, our tailored support, expertise and international network is here and ready to help you maximise your ambitions and sell to the world.
The strategy – titled ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’ – will see government work hand-in-hand with business to help them to succeed in the global marketplace through a first-class export support framework. It will help replicate higher levels of exporting seen in the South East of England across all parts of the country to deliver on the Prime Minister’s ambition to level up the UK, and transform the country into a high-wage, high-skill, high-productivity economy. The 12-point strategy includes:
Launching the ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’ campaign, championing the UK’s priority sectors through an innovative, localised marketing campaign that will promote the best of British goods and services in our towns and cities.
The Export Support Service provides a single point of contact for exporters to Europe. Since launching in October the new export hotline and online service has helped hundreds of businesses to get exporting (4).
UK Export Academy expansion to offer SMEs in all parts of the UK, including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland the chance to learn how to navigate the technicalities of exporting and how to find new opportunities in overseas markets.
A new UK Tradeshow Programme will be bigger and better targeted to give UK companies, especially SMEs, a leg-up to exhibit their first-class products at the world’s biggest tradeshows.
UK Export Finance – our world-leading export credit agency – will expand its offer with new products and a wider delivery network that will make it easier for UK exporters to secure business from overseas buyers.
Export Champions, ensuring businesses can build and learn from exporting successes through business-to-business networking and peer-to-peer learning
Internationalisation Fund, open to SMEs in England, will aim to grow international sales, and has facilitated £4 million of support to SMEs attending Trade Fairs.
British Chambers of Commerce Director-General, Shevaun Haviland said:
More than 60% of Chamber members export overseas compared to just 10% of all businesses UK-wide. To turn the UK into the global economic powerhouse it deserves to be that has to change, and the launch of the DIT’s export strategy is a really positive step toward making that happen. We are keen to work with Government to lift export-led growth in sustainable goods, services and technologies for companies the length and breadth of the United Kingdom. We are uniquely placed to help with our unrivalled expertise in trade facilitation, the advice, training and brokerage services of Chamber Customs and the extensive market access provided by our 76 international chambers. Once you open the door to international trade the possibilities for expansion are endless.
Further information
Those who are interested in exporting or wish to maximise business growth via exporting can sign up to a local International Trade Week event
Source: DIT Management Information collected from ESS telephone and digital systems. Since operational to 5 November, the telephone helpline (operational 1 October) received 786 enquiries and the digital enquiry service (operational 22 July) received 785 enquiries. Data has had basic quality assurance checks and is subject to revision
You can view this original Department of International Trade article here Photo credit: Pixabay/ Chamber Canva Pro 2022
What You Need Is What We Do. Last Thursday, we were delighted to co-host our second Co.llaboration with the incredible Stokely Howard, Founder of Trendy Grandad and his GEN-E young professionals networking event in Norwich. These have taken off spectacularly, selling out in just 24 hours – one week before the event itself. 86 young professionals met at Bar & Beyond in norwich to Co.nnect and network in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Attendees joined from across Norfolk’s thriving business Co.mmunity; from solicitors, accountants, HR professionals, to marketing specialists, entrepreneurs and even a magician! A networking event created for young professionals to have engaging Co.nversations, opportunities and Co.nnections with their fellow peers. GEN-E was launched as part of Co.next, a brand new concept from the Norfolk Chambers where we aim to provide dynamic events and learnings for the next generation. This is just the beginning of our journey, our first Co.next board meeting will take place this week, where we will gather a range of inspirational business leaders who will help us to shape the future and growth of this concept. Watch this space! We have only just started on the Norfolk Chambers Co.next programme! See you soon!
We are very proud of Sam Martin, our brilliant International Trade Apprentice. Sam has passed his British Chambers training courses with flying colours and is now very capable of offering a wide range of advice and support to the Norfolk business community. He is also fully qualified on standard international documentation, including certificates of origin, carnets and EUR1s and import/export Customs documentation. We grabbed five minutes with Sam to chat about his apprenticeship… When did you start your apprenticeship at the Norfolk Chambers? I started my apprenticeship at the chamber in March 2020, it was then postponed until around July later on in the year because of Covid ☹. What interested you about working within the International Trade department – it was a completely new direction for you wasn’t it? You’re right, it was something I had never experienced before. Since Sixth form I had wanted to find some experience in the business world and the opportunity of working in International trade was one I could not miss. International trade is an ever-changing Industry and having the chance to engage in such an extensive market was really attractive for me. International Trade is a complicated area with an incredible amount of training needed – was it daunting to begin with? I would not describe it as daunting but more exciting. I had only ever worked within hospitality, and so the opportunity to learn so much and really get stuck into a specialised role was something I could only look forward to. Of course, as with any new job it is going to be a bit nerve wracking at times but with time things can only get easier and more comfortable. What did you find helpful within your apprenticeship with such a steep learning curve? I think a main help with the apprenticeship, was the support with working in a business environment and especially the admin side. I had never worked in an office before and the constant help with understanding my role within the company really aided me along the way. Was the practical training on documentation helpful with your studying and online work? The training here at the chamber has definitely helped with my studying! By continuing to learn and develop my skills in online working and computers, I am able to learn more efficiently every day. Co.ngratulations! You’re fully qualified on standard international documentation, including certificates of origin, carnets and EUR1s, and on import/export Customs documentation – this is an incredible achievement Sam! Is there an area you particularly enjoy? At the moment I have really been enjoying the customs side of the role. I have only been involved in the customs role for a few months, and every day you are dealing with different clients sending new and strange goods abroad which is always entertaining to experience. Not only this, but there is so much still to learn as we move over to new and improved systems so no days are ever the same as the last! What has been the most challenging aspect of your role? I would say the most challenging part of the role is the ability to adapt to new regulations or new rules especially within documentation. It’s hard work with so many different rules for individual countries or documents, when new ones are implemented, especially in everyday work. At times, it can be hard to keep up and remember to apply the knowledge where it needs to be, but I have our International Trade expert Julie Austin on hand to support me whenever I need her advice. What has been the most positive aspect of your role? I have to absolutely say the most positive outcome of my role would be the ability to overcome a problem, and my confidence when helping others. A pivotal part of my role is offering support to clients in and around Norfolk, as each new call is usually different from the last, having the ability to stay calm and try and help in any way we can has been something I have really been able to improve on and develop! Every Chamber Member has their own Chambers Trading Card. Your name is ‘The Prodigy’, with skills as Precision, Discipline, versatility and determination – and your motto; ‘Don’t be busy, be productive’ – how do you apply these skills to your work? By applying these skills to my work I take each task one step at a time and not trying to juggle a hundred things at once. In this role it can be very easy to suddenly have five things to do at once, but by keeping calm under pressure and taking each task as it comes you can complete them with precision and confidently to a workable timescale at the same time – easy! You have excellent qualities to work in International as you are a very calm member of the team – ‘unflappable’. How do you keep calm when the pressure is on? The main way to stay calm under pressure is usually to shout for a quick answer from Julie! However, Julie may be busy with another client so usually I think the key is to not panic, as realistically the problem will always have some form of solution whether it takes a bit of time or not. As I have gained experience in the role I now have alot of resources around me that can help in situations under pressure – so the solution is always there! What will be your Christmas party drink this year? Without doubt, it has to be a Pornstar martini! What are you looking forward to in 2022? The main thing I am looking forward to in 2022 in my role at the chamber is developing as an individual and hopefully progressing higher and higher if I can. My aim is to try and get involved in as many projects as I can, as well as helping with any events to try and meet some of the clients we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Outside of work I would say I am mainly looking forward to travelling as much as possible, I already have a few trips lined up so hopefully, covid-pending, so I can get out of the country a bit as well! Well done Sam on your hard work and determination and passing your apprenticeship with a Distinction. From everyone here at Team Chambers, we’re really looking forward to working with you and supporting you in 2022 and beyond!
Transport for Norwich are currently proposing two schemes out for public consultation to improve transport links and access for pedestrian/cyclists within Norwich. The resutls of a recent consultation on St Williams Way have also been published. A quick overview of each are below along with links for you to follow to find more information and have your say on each scheme. One of the proposals is to look at upgrading and replacing the existing Toucan crossing on Heartsease Lane which serves both the pink and purple pedalway routes in the Norwich cycling network with a fully segregated modern crossing for cyclists and pedestrians. In addition, the existing carriageway will be resurfaced. This project aims to provide a safer environment by providing a wider segregated crossing which will provide separation between pedestrians and cyclists. More info. Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Transport Hub – The aim of this project is to provide a new bus interchange close to the outpatients entrance that increases the capacity for buses, resolves congestion and reduces conflict with vulnerable users of the disabled car parking area. In addition, there is a proposal to introduce a bike share facility to strengthen the hub’s provision and increase passenger capacity. More info. St Williams Way consultation summary response – proposing to introduce a mandatory cycle lane with light segregation and double yellow lines along the length of St Williams Way (just west of Thor Loke to Margetson Avenue) to improve safety and encourage more people to cycle. Find out the results.