Picture of the exterior of the Staffordshire chambers of commerce building.

Staffordshire Chambers reports record year with busiest-ever events calendar and support for over 65,000 employees

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Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has reported a strong year of expansion across its services, reflecting rising demand for trusted support across the local business community.

The organisation, based at Commerce House, Festival Park, delivered 338 events over the last financial year, attracting more than 6,300 attendees – a 37% increase compared with the previous year.

International trade activity also rose sharply, with support provided to more than 500 businesses and goods traded valued at around £60 million, a 67% increase on the previous period.

The Chambers now represents more than 65,000 employees across the county and continues to provide support to a broad range of businesses.

Staffordshire Chambers Interim CEO Chris Plant said: “This year has shown the value of trusted business support more than ever.

“From our events and networking to innovation and international trade, we’ve seen businesses across Staffordshire thrive, and we’re committed to building on this momentum in the year ahead.”

Networking, business support and marketing activity continued to grow, with LinkedIn engagement rising and Daily Focus retaining its position as Staffordshire’s leading independent business news service.

Innovation activity also expanded, with 70 businesses supported through the Promoting Innovation Pathways programme, which created 14 jobs and safeguarded 36 more. Funding and grants were awarded throughout the year, though the organisation said its focus remained on delivering practical, high-impact support for members.

The Skills Hub delivered training for 420 people and assisted 216 businesses, while the Ignite entrepreneurship programme helped 247 individuals and engaged 278 students in developing new business ideas.

A major digital upgrade saw the launch of the new Ready Membership CRM in January 2025, fully integrated with a refreshed, member-focused website to improve access to services and events. The Chambers also maintained strong representation through nine policy forums and three sector groups, while investing in staff development including apprenticeships, degree programmes, AI training and mental health support.

With origins dating back to 1813, Staffordshire Chambers said the past year demonstrates continued momentum and its role as a trusted partner for businesses across the region.

Find out more about membership, here.

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