Member Article

‘We must aspire to be a Global North East’, says Chamber President

North East England Chamber of Commerce President Mike Matthews has called on the region to stand up as a global powerhouse to do business, as the Chamber today launches its Manifesto for 2017.

The Manifesto sets out five key areas of activity to improve conditions for North East companies after taking onboard feedback from its membership.

Mike said: “Our Manifesto clearly sets out the changes our members believe will make the biggest positive impact on business success in our region.

“Last year saw some dramatic shifts in the political landscape. The outcome of the EU referendum, the appointment of a new Cabinet and further devolution to parts of the region have each presented new challenges and opportunities.

“We know North East England is a great place to do business, but we want it to be the best and I believe this action plan will help make this become a reality.

“Further afield, we must aspire to be a Global North East. New and existing exporters must be supported to expand into markets across the globe and our region must attract the brightest international talent and more overseas visitors.”

The Manifesto’s five key pillars are based around areas categorised as Influential, Global, Connected, Competitive and Working, where further details on each area can be read here.