Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has called for a stable economic environment to help firms invest and grow following the appointment of Andy Burnham as Prime Minister.
The organisation said businesses across the county remain “resilient and ambitious” but need greater certainty around costs, investment and future planning.
Deputy chief executive Chris Plant said rising costs continued to be one of the biggest challenges firms face and urged the new Government to create the right conditions for businesses to expand and boost productivity.
He said: “Following the appointment of Andy Burnham as Prime Minister, we look forward to working constructively with the new Government to help create the conditions for long-term economic growth.
“Businesses across Staffordshire are resilient and ambitious, but they need a stable environment that gives them the confidence to invest, recruit and plan for the future.
“Long-term certainty, alongside a clear focus on supporting enterprise, innovation and skills, will be vital in helping firms unlock that potential.
“Our members continue to tell us that rising costs remain one of the biggest barriers to growth. Creating the right conditions for businesses to invest and expand will not only strengthen individual firms, but also support jobs, productivity and prosperity across Staffordshire.
“We welcome the commitment to growing the economy and ensuring opportunities are felt across every part of the country. As the voice of business in Staffordshire, we look forward to working with Government to ensure the needs and ambitions of our local business community help shape that agenda.”
In his first week as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham made a series of announcements including a pledge to end rough sleeping, cut VAT from domestic energy bills, a £2 cap on bus fares and a cut in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England by 20% from April 2027. Read reaction from Staffordshire’s hospitality industry here.
