Clifford House, 2 Station Yard, Oakington, Cambridge, CB24 3AH
Tel 01223 237414
Email enquiries@cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk
Web www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk
@CambsChamber
Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce
Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce
@CambsChamber
Views expressed in connected are not necessarily these of Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The editor reserves the right to make amendments without notification.
Bringing Business Together
This Spring edition of connected arrives at a time of real momentum for the Chamber and the wider business community we are proud to represent.
Over the past quarter, one thing has stood out above all else: the power of coming together. Our events programme has seen exceptional levels of engagement, with businesses from across the region showing up, contributing, and making meaningful connections.
We’ve been listening closely to our members and the wider community, shaping our events and activity around what matters most to you. The result is a programme designed to create real value to your business growth – spaces where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed, and opportunities are unlocked.
“We’ve been listening closely to our members and the wider community, shaping our events and activity around what matters most to you.”
In a world that can often feel uncertain and fast-moving, these moments of connection matter more than ever. They provide a platform to share experiences, showcase expertise, and build the relationships that underpin long-term success. There is something powerful about being in a room with others who are equally committed to growth and progress. This edition shines a light on those connections – highlighting the people, businesses, and conversations that are shaping our region. It also serves as an invitation. If you haven’t yet joined us at an event, I would strongly encourage
you to do so. There is real value in being present, visible, and engaged. You will find me at our upcoming Digital Marketing Networking Breakfast at Patron venue, Novotel Cambridge North on Wednesday 13 May. Read more about our upcoming flagship events on pages 24-25.
This year also marks a significant milestone as we celebrate our centenary in Peterborough – a proud moment to reflect on the legacy of the Chamber and the businesses that have shaped our region. As part of these celebrations, we encourage you to get involved and cast your vote in our Peterborough Top 100 Awards, recognising the individuals who continue to make a lasting impact. Scan the QR code opposite to vote for your Peterborough Champion. Nominate yourself or someone else and help us celebrate the people shaping the city (you can vote multiple times across all categories)! Thank you for continuing to be part of our community. Your engagement, energy, and willingness to collaborate are what make this network so impactful.
Shauna Kelly, Editor
The Future Workforce, People and International Growth
It has been a busy and significant start to the year for businesses across our region, with much to reflect on and much to look ahead to.
One of the most consequential planning decisions for this region in a generation is the government’s consultation on the proposed Greater Cambridge Development Corporation, launched in February and closed on 1 April. The proposal established a centrally led body to accelerate nationally significant growth across Cambridge City and South Cambridgeshire, backed by up to £400 million of initial government funding for new homes, infrastructure, lab space and water supply. The decisions taken now will shape the economic landscape of our region for the next 25 years.
This sits within a much broader set of announcements that together signal an ambitious future for the Oxford to Cambridge corridor. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to making this region the Silicon Valley of Europe, supported by a further £800 million package announced in March. Closer to home, the confirmation that Universal Studios will open Europe’s first theme park and resort in Bedfordshire, with construction already underway since January, is a development our businesses should be watching closely. The project is expected to create around 28,000 jobs across construction, operations and the supply chain, with a peak on-site workforce of 5,000.
Opportunities for businesses across Cambridgeshire, in construction, logistics, catering, technology and beyond, are emerging now. The Greater Cambridge Development Corporation, the Fens Reservoir, East West Rail and wider corridor infrastructure are all interconnected. Together, they represent a pipeline of investment that must translate into local jobs and opportunities for businesses.
The global environment remains deeply challenging. Geopolitical instability, persistent inflationary pressures, ongoing supply chain disruption and the effects of a domestic fiscal reset continue to weigh heavily on businesses of all sizes. Cambridgeshire is not immune to these headwinds.
Our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES), featured on page 10, highlights the pressures firms continue to face locally. In our region 84% of businesses cite labour costs as a major concern, while 62% report operating below capacity.
One area where pressure is most felt is employment. Changes to employer National Insurance contributions, alongside increases to the National Living Wage, are significantly raising the cost of employment for many businesses.
That is why it is important to highlight the support available through the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority and the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP). This includes the Combined Authority’s
Charlotte Horobin, CEO
offer of up to £5,000 to help businesses invest in workforce development through apprenticeships. You can read more about this on pages 18-21.
For businesses facing rising employment costs, investing in your workforce remains one of the most effective levers available. Upskilling existing staff, embracing apprenticeships and strengthening links with education providers can all deliver measurable returns. Through the LSIP, the Chamber is building a clear picture of employer needs, feeding directly into the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Local Growth Plan and its ambition to triple the size of our economy by 2050.
The most practical step you can take in response to all of this is to stay connected. To your supply chain, to new customers, and to the wider conversation about where our region is heading. Our flagship business event, CambsB2B North returns on Thursday 11 June at the Holiday Inn Peterborough West – bringing together businesses of all sizes alongside education providers and local and national government. You can read more about this must-attend event on page 25
Chamber Patron Members
From the Chair
I am delighted to step into the role of Partnership Director for the Cambridge x Manchester Partnership, a ground-breaking collaboration between two of the UK’s leading innovation cities. Following the partnership’s launch last year and our inaugural board meetings in Manchester in February 2026, this feels like a pivotal moment to build real momentum.
I bring with me extensive experience from across the Cambridge innovation ecosystem, having worked in communications consultancy, innovation, and economic development throughout my career.
This role presents a unique opportunity to bring those strands together in service of something genuinely ambitious.
What makes this partnership particularly powerful is its depth of connectivity. It spans every level – from the University of Cambridge and The University of Manchester to Innovate Cambridge and Unit M; from city councils to combined authorities; and critically, from business to business. This multilayered approach enables ideas, talent, investment, and opportunity to move more freely between our two regions.
Since joining, I have been working closely with colleagues across the partnership to shape our next phase. We are moving at pace, including expanding the team to support delivery, and building stronger
Chamber Colleagues Appointed to Combined Authority Business Board
Charlotte Horobin, Katy Davies and Dr Mike Greene have been appointed to the new Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority Business Board by Mayor Paul Bristow. Charlotte, CEO of Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, adds extensive experience in business representation, policy and regional economic development. She brings a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing businesses and ensuring their voices are heard at a strategic level.
As Chamber Board Director and Managing Director of Cap Air Systems Limited, an electronics manufacturing business in Huntingdonshire, Katy brings a vital perspective from the region’s advanced manufacturing sector. She is a strong advocate for ensuring manufacturing has a voice alongside life sciences and tech in shaping the region’s economic future.
Dr Mike Greene, Chamber Board Director and Founder & CEO of The Growth Syndicate, brings a wealth of entrepreneurial
“Together, Charlotte, Katy and Mike are committed to representing the realities of businesses on the ground.”
and investment experience to the board. A serial entrepreneur, mentor and investor, Mike offers valuable insight into scaling businesses and supporting enterprise.
Together, Charlotte, Katy and Mike are committed to representing the realities of businesses on the ground. They join a board chaired by Shaun Grady of AstraZeneca and made up of leaders across multiple sectors.
links across our networks to unlock new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead. By strengthening the ties between Cambridge and Manchester, we are creating a model for how cities can work together to drive innovation-led growth at scale.
The impact of this partnership will be significant – unlocking new investment, accelerating talent development, and creating lasting economic opportunity –delivering real, tangible benefits for both regions and reinforcing their importance on the national and global stage.
Chamber Board Director Appointed Head of Public Affairs at Associated British Foods plc
Olivia Seccombe, a valued Chamber Board Director, has recently been appointed Head of Public Affairs at Associated British Foods plc, marking an exciting new chapter in her career. She joins the parent company of British Sugar following a highly successful tenure where she played a key role in shaping communications and stakeholder engagement across the business.
Since May 2022, Olivia has worked closely with colleagues and partners across the sector, developing a deep understanding of the industry and championing its unique “field to fork” story. Her passion for the future of British agriculture and food production, combined with her strategic expertise in public affairs, positions her strongly for this new role. Olivia’s continued proximity to the sector, alongside her new responsibilities at a group level, ensures she remains closely connected to the evolution and innovation of the industry, bringing valuable insight and leadership to both her organisation and the Partnership.
Faye Holland, Chair
Katy Davies Charlotte Horobin
Dr Mike Greene
Olivia Seccombe
Greater Cambridge Development Corporation: A Turning Point for the Region
Plans for a new Greater Cambridge Development Corporation (GCDC) represent one of the most significant governance changes the region has seen in decades, with far-reaching implications for housing, infrastructure and economic growth.
At its core, the proposal from government is to create a centrally led body with planning powers across Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire. This would enable a more strategic, long-term approach to development, particularly as the region faces intense pressure to deliver new homes and support its globally significant innovation economy.
Why it matters
Greater Cambridge is one of the UK’s most economically productive areas, driven by knowledge-intensive sectors such as life sciences, AI and advanced manufacturing. However, growth has increasingly been constrained by infrastructure and housing shortages.
Recent data highlights the fragility of that growth:
• Employment growth in Greater Cambridge fell from 5.5% (2022–23) to 0.0% (2023–24)
• Knowledge-intensive sectors saw a 2.4% decline in employment, the first recorded drop
This slowdown reflects wider UK economic pressures, with the British Chambers of Commerce forecasting:
• UK GDP growth of just 1.0% in 2026
• Unemployment rising to around 5.5%
Against this backdrop, the case for coordinated, large-scale intervention becomes stronger.
What the Development Corporation would do
The proposed GCDC would:
• Take over strategic planning powers for major developments
• Lead delivery of large-scale housing and infrastructure projects
• Replace local councils in setting future Local Plans
• Cover a larger geographic and population area than previous development corporations
In effect, it would centralise decision-making to accelerate delivery and unlock growth.
Opportunities for business
For businesses, the potential benefits are significant:
• Faster planning decisions for major developments
• Better infrastructure alignment with economic growth sectors
• Stronger positioning for national investment funding
Given that only 23% of firms plan to increase their workforce in early 2026, improving the conditions for growth is critical.
Challenges and concerns
However, the proposals are not without controversy.
Local leaders have raised concerns about:
• Loss of local democratic control over planning
• Reduced influence for communities in shaping development
• The scale and remit of the new body
There is a clear tension between the need for rapid growth and maintaining local accountability.
What happens next
The government consultation will shape the final model, but the direction of travel is clear: Greater Cambridge is moving toward a more centralised, delivery-focused growth model.
For businesses, the key question is not whether change is coming, but how quickly it will unlock the infrastructure and talent pipeline needed to sustain the region’s global competitiveness.
Policy Updates
Employment Rights Act: What Businesses Need to Know
The Employment Rights Act 2025 marks one of the most significant overhauls of UK labour law in a generation, with phased implementation continuing through 2026 and 2027.
Key changes include:
• Stronger protections against unfair dismissal and workplace harassment
• Reforms to statutory sick pay
• Measures to limit exploitative zero-hours contracts
The reforms are expected to:
• Bring the UK closer to OECD standards on worker protection
• Deliver a small but positive employment impact of around +0.1%
However, businesses are focused on practical implications. Feedback via the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce highlights three key areas of concern:
• Pay structures
• HR processes
• Probation management
With further changes taking effect from April 2026, employers should continue preparing for operational adjustments.
Oxford–Cambridge Arc: Renewed Focus and Funding
The Oxford–Cambridge Arc remains a central pillar of the UK’s long-term growth strategy, with renewed government backing expected to unlock infrastructure and innovation investment across the region.
The Arc aims to:
• Connect world-leading research clusters
• Accelerate housing and transport delivery
• Support high-growth sectors including life sciences and technology
The Chancellor’s recently announced a further £800m investment in the Arc. For Greater Cambridge, alignment with Arc funding could amplify the impact of the proposed Development Corporation, particularly in securing large-scale infrastructure investment.
A47: Roads Minister Visit Signals Infrastructure Priority
The recent visit by the Roads Minister to the A47 highlights continued government focus on improving east–west connectivity.
For businesses, upgrades to the A47 are critical to:
• Reducing journey times and logistics costs
• Improving access to labour markets
• Supporting regional supply chains
Infrastructure investment remains a key ask of the Chamber network, particularly as economic growth slows and business confidence remains fragile.
£2.5bn for AI and Quantum: Boost for Cambridge’s Strengths
The UK government’s £2.5bn investment in AI and quantum technologies represents a major opportunity for Cambridge and the wider region.
As a global leader in:
• Artificial intelligence
• Semiconductor design
• Quantum research
Greater Cambridge is well positioned to benefit from:
• Increased R&D funding
• Growth in high-value jobs
• Expansion of innovation clusters
At a time when knowledge-intensive employment has recently declined locally, targeted investment in these sectors could play a key role in restoring growth momentum.
Across all these developments, a consistent theme emerges: the need to align policy, infrastructure and skills to sustain growth in one of the UK’s most important economic regions.
Connor Butler, Engagement Manager
Quarterly Economic Survey Q1 2026
The latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) highlights a clear quarter-on-quarter rise in business concern around price pressures. Labour costs remain the most significant challenge, increasing from 80% to 84%, while concern around utilities has risen sharply from 48% to 62%, and fuel from 23% to 32%.
At the same time, trading conditions remain difficult, with 41% of businesses reporting a decrease in overseas sales, and 62% now operating below full capacity.
Together, these findings point to a challenging landscape, with rising costs and weakening demand continuing to limit business growth and confidence.
Price Rise Pressures
Top Factors Affecting Businesses
62% of firms are currently operating below capacity
Recruitment
24/7/365 Same Day Delivery and Logistics Solutions
Speedy Freight: Keeping Cambridge Moving
For businesses across Cambridge, moving goods quickly, safely, and reliably is essential. Speedy Freight Cambridge provides courier and freight services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, helping local companies transport everything from urgent parcels to larger, complex shipments. With a combination of local expertise and access to a wider national and European network, Speedy Freight Cambridge ensures deliveries arrive on time, every time.
Local Expertise, National and International Reach
Based in Cambridge, the team serves businesses across the CB postcode while drawing on the resources of the wider Speedy Freight network. With more than 60 branches across the UK and Europe and access to over 4,000 vehicles, the company can manage everything from a single urgent parcel to large-scale freight movements. This combination of local knowledge and national reach allows Cambridgeshire businesses to deliver reliably to customers, suppliers, and partners across the UK and internationally.
Around-the-Clock Support
Speedy Freight Cambridge operates continuously, day and night, all year round. Whether transporting a laboratory sample, a production component, or an overseas shipment, the team ensures every delivery is handled with care and delivered on schedule.
Comprehensive Transport Services
The company offers a full range of logistics solutions designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes:
• 24/7 dedicated direct same day courier services
• Secure handling of fragile and high-value consignments
• Temperature-controlled delivery for sensitive or perishable items
• Import and export support for international shipments
• Bespoke end-to-end supply chain solutions
These services give businesses greater control and visibility over their deliveries, reducing risk and providing peace of mind.
Supporting Key Cambridge Industries
Speedy Freight Cambridge works with organisations in sectors where timing, care, and precision are critical. These include:
• Pharmaceuticals and life sciences: transporting temperature-sensitive or high-value materials directly between laboratories, clinics, and suppliers.
• Engineering and manufacturing: delivering urgent parts or specialist equipment needed to keep production on schedule.
• Technology: moving fragile or timesensitive items between sites, clients, and suppliers safely and efficiently.
By understanding the specific requirements of these sectors, Speedy Freight ensures each consignment is handled appropriately and arrives on schedule.
Why Local Businesses Choose Speedy Freight Cambridge
For organisations in the CB postcode, having a reliable logistics partner is essential. Speedy Freight Cambridge combines practical, flexible transport solutions with local expertise and round-the-clock availability. By providing reliable and tailored services, the team allows businesses to focus on their core operations while knowing their deliveries are in safe hands.
Diplomatic Advisory Hub: Expert Insight to Help British SMEs Thrive Overseas
In an increasingly complex global landscape, British businesses face both unprecedented opportunities and evolving risks when trading internationally. To help SMEs navigate this environment with confidence, the Diplomatic Advisory Hub brings together the expertise of government and business in a unique and practical way.
A joint initiative between the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), the Hub is designed to provide SMEs with the strategic insight and connections they need to succeed overseas. Led by a former UK Ambassador, its experienced team offers a rare combination of diplomatic perspective and commercial understanding.
A gateway to insight – and influence
The Diplomatic Advisory Hub acts as a front door for businesses seeking clear, reliable geopolitical advice, while also operating as a feedback loop –ensuring that real-world experiences from UK companies are heard at the highest levels of government.
This two-way exchange means that businesses are not only better informed, but also better represented. Insights from supply chains, export challenges and international markets are fed directly back to policymakers, helping to shape more responsive and effective government support.
Supporting smarter international growth
The Hub offers access to clear, actionable intelligence on political, regulatory and geographic factors. This includes:
• Horizon scanning to identify emerging risks and opportunities
• Medium- to long-term geopolitical insights
• Connections to relevant experts and government services
• Practical guidance to strengthen resilience and competitiveness.
The Hub stands ready to assist businesses during market disruptions or global crises, helping them assess risk, adapt plans and maintain confidence in their international operations.
Strengthening the voice of business in government
A key strength of the Diplomatic Advisory Hub is its role in amplifying the voice of SMEs within government. By gathering real-world insight from businesses and feeding it into policymakers across the FCDO, the Department
for Business and Trade, and beyond, the Hub helps ensure that UK policy reflects the realities of exporting.
Real-world impact
Hundreds of businesses recently benefited from a dedicated webinar on the Middle East crisis, delivered by senior FCDO officials. The session provided timely updates on the evolving situation, alongside practical guidance on managing impacts on costs, energy, logistics and risk.
Crucially, businesses were also supported in stress-testing their plans for trading with the region, equipping them to respond proactively in a fast-changing environment.
Get involved
The Diplomatic Advisory Hub is open to SMEs across the UK looking to strengthen their international strategy and resilience. Businesses are also encouraged to share their experiences and ideas on how government can better support exports.
By combining diplomatic insight with business expertise, the Hub is helping UK SMEs not just to navigate global markets, but to succeed in them.
Following our recent Global Business Briefing with the Hub in April, we were pleased to give attendees clarity on global developments, hear first-hand their perspectives on international trade and help them navigate these challenges with greater confidence.
Building Confidence in Global Markets: International Trade Training for Every Stage of Your Journey
From navigating customs
requirements to understanding documentation, compliance, and logistics, international trade can be complex. That’s why structured, practical training is a vital investment for any organisation looking to grow globally.
Through a comprehensive programme of international trade training courses, delivered in line with the expertise of the BCC, businesses can access both readyto-run online learning and bespoke training tailored to their specific needs. Whether delivered remotely or on-site, these courses are designed to equip teams with the confidence and capability.
Training designed for real-world business needs
Each course provides practical, relevant insights that can be applied immediately within the workplace.
For those new to exporting or importing, introductory courses such as A Practical Guide to Exporting, An Introduction to Importing, and Introduction to Export and Import Procedures offer a clear overview
of key processes. These sessions demystify the fundamentals, helping delegates understand documentation, shipping, and the key questions to consider before trading overseas.
For businesses ready to build on this foundation, intermediate courses explore critical areas in more detail. Topics include export documentation, customs procedures, and the use of systems such as the UK’s Customs Declaration Service. These courses help ensure that teams can handle day-to-day operations while avoiding costly errors.
Specialist knowledge to strengthen compliance and competitiveness
A range of focused courses provides deeper insight into key areas such as:
• Commodity codes and classification, helping businesses correctly identify goods and meet customs requirements
• Rules of origin, including how trade agreements impact duties and sourcing decisions
• Export controls and licensing, ensuring compliance with regulations and sanctions
• Incoterms® 2020, clarifying responsibilities, costs, and risk between buyers and sellers
• Methods of payment and letters of credit, supporting secure and efficient international transactions.
There are also practical workshops on completing export documentation, including Certificates of Origin and EUR1 movement certificates, as well as stepby-step guidance on specialist tools like ATA Carnets for temporary exports.
Advanced training for experienced professionals
Topics such as customs special procedures, inward and outward processing, and duty relief schemes enable businesses to streamline supply chains, reduce costs, and enhance compliance.
These sessions are particularly valuable for logistics professionals, compliance teams, and trade managers responsible for complex international operations.
Flexible learning to suit your business
Bespoke courses allow companies to focus on the markets, challenges, and processes most relevant to them, ensuring maximum impact for their teams.
In addition to formal training, businesses can also benefit from a wider programme of events, workshops, and international roundtables, creating opportunities to share experiences and learn from peers across the trading community.
Supporting long-term international success
By building in-house expertise, businesses can reduce risk, improve efficiency, and approach global markets with greater confidence.
Investing in training ensures your team is equipped to succeed in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
Breaking Language Barriers: How Professional Translation and Trade Training Drive Global Success
The hidden barrier to international growth
International growth offers the opportunity to reach new customers, diversify revenue streams, and build a truly global brand. However, despite strong products and clear market demand, many companies struggle to gain traction overseas. The issue is rarely the quality of the offering itself. More often, it lies in how that offering is communicated. Businesses must connect – genuinely and effectively – with audiences who think, buy, and communicate differently. Research shows that companies investing in language capabilities are up to 30% more successful in exporting. This highlights a powerful but often underestimated truth: language and cultural understanding are critical drivers of international success.
Building trust across borders
For over 30 years, Anglia Translations Ltd has supported businesses in overcoming these challenges. Based in Cambridgeshire and now led by a second generation, the company has evolved alongside the changing demands of global trade. It works with organisations at every stage of their international journey, helping them communicate with clarity and confidence in diverse markets.
From translation to strategy
The translation industry has transformed significantly over recent decades. Advances in AI and language technology have improved speed and efficiency, but they have not replaced the need for human expertise. Language is complex and deeply nuanced, shaped by culture, context, and industry-specific knowledge. Even minor missteps in tone, phrasing, or terminology can affect how a brand is perceived in a new market.
Why language is more than words
One of the most persistent misconceptions in international business is that English alone is enough. In reality, 75% of consumers prefer to buy in their native language. Beyond language, cultural nuances – such as humour, imagery, colour associations, and communication styles – can significantly influence how a message is received.
Professional translation ensures that communication feels natural, authentic, and relevant to the target audience. It demonstrates respect for local culture and builds familiarity and trust.
The foundation: international trade training
To succeed internationally, businesses also need a clear understanding of how global markets operate.
International trade training provides this foundation by equipping organisations with knowledge of compliance, logistics, market entry strategies, and cultural awareness. It simplifies the complexities of exporting, breaks processes into manageable steps, and reduces the risk of costly mistakes. More importantly, it encourages a strategic approach, enabling companies to identify the right markets, understand customer expectations, and position themselves effectively.
A powerful combination for global success
When combined, professional translation and trade training create a powerful synergy. Training delivers the strategic insight – the “what” and the “why” – while translation provides the “how,” bringing that strategy to
life across every customer touchpoint. From websites and marketing campaigns to product documentation and contracts, translation ensures messaging is consistent, culturally aligned, and commercially effective.
Businesses that invest in both areas consistently report stronger export performance, improved engagement with international customers, and more meaningful relationships. In an increasingly competitive global landscape, this integrated approach can make all the difference between simply expanding and truly succeeding.
Click here to read more about Anglia Translations Ltd and how they can help you navigate international markets with confidence. Click here to discover how our International Trade Training courses can support your business in taking the next step towards global growth.
The Hidden Costs of Cutting Corners on Export Documentation
Why the cheapest option can be the most expensive mistake a manufacturer makes
When a Cambridgeshire manufacturer is preparing to export, the focus is rightly on the product. Quality standards, pricing, logistics, compliance. Translation of technical documents, safety manuals, and marketing materials often comes last on the list, if it makes the list at all.
I understand why. When you are managing a dozen priorities to get a shipment out the door, it is tempting to run your technical manual through Google Translate, ask a bilingual colleague to check the labels, or assume your overseas distributor will sort it out on their end. These approaches save money on paper. In practice, they can create problems that cost far more than professional translation ever would.
What actually goes wrong
I recently sat down with Ilona Karpanos, Associate Partner – International Trade and Economic Development at Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, for the first episode of our Trade Talk by Anglia series. Ilona works directly with manufacturers across the region who are entering international markets, and she sees the same patterns repeatedly.
Shipments delayed because a single incorrect term in a safety document triggers a compliance rejection. Distributors who lose confidence when they receive poorly formatted materials. Buyers in Germany, Japan, or Saudi Arabia who see sloppy documentation and conclude the company behind it is equally careless. As Ilona put it: “Sometimes it is irreversible. Once it is done, this market is closed.”
That is the part that catches manufacturers off guard. The cost of
cutting corners on translation is not just financial. It is trust, brand reputation, and market access, things that are genuinely difficult to recover once lost.
The costs that do not show on a spreadsheet
Ilona estimates that between 30 and 40 percent of export success relies on communication and language quality. Not the product. Not the pricing. The words. Accurate, culturally appropriate translation affects credibility, compliance, and whether international buyers take you seriously enough to continue the conversation. She also made a distinction I think every exporter should hear. Some markets are forgiving of minor communication mistakes. The Netherlands, Scandinavia, and parts of Eastern Europe tend to focus on clarity and intent. But markets like Germany, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE expect precision, formality, and attention to detail. A small error in those markets does not just look unprofessional. It closes the door.
Planning ahead, not scrambling
At Anglia Translations, we see this with our clients all the time. The documentation is an afterthought. Everything is urgent because it was not built into the export plan from the beginning. No budget was allocated, no timelines set, and suddenly a shipment cannot go out without translated compliance documents.
The manufacturers who get this right treat translation as part of their export planning, not something they deal with at the last minute. They budget for it, they allow time for it,
Ilona estimates that between 30 and 40 percent of
export success relies on communication and language quality. Not the product.
and they work with specialists who understand the regulatory and cultural requirements of their target markets.
It does not have to be complicated. But it does need to be intentional.
If you would like to hear the full conversation with Ilona, including her advice on which sectors face the most complex export documentation and what the Chamber is doing to support manufacturers, you can find Trade Talk by Anglia on our website and LinkedIn page.
Mary Gilbey is Managing Director of Anglia Translations Ltd and Global Patron of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce. Trade Talk by Anglia is a new series exploring international trade challenges with the region’s leading voices in manufacturing and export.
Mary Gilbey, Director Anglia Translations
Peterborough Growth Summit
The sold-out Peterborough Growth Summit brought together business, civic and education leaders to explore the city’s growth potential and the opportunities ahead. Hosted at Patron venue ARU Peterborough, the day combined expert insight, panel discussions, and practical examples of skills, investment, and collaboration in action.
Opening Insights
Chamber CEO, Charlotte Horobin and Board Director Dr Mike Greene set the tone, emphasising the need to not just talk about growth but act on it. Professor Ross Renton, Principal of ARU Peterborough, reinforced partnership as the “golden thread” linking government, education, and business.
Good Growth for Peterborough – PwC Keynote
PwC shared insights from the Good Growth for Cities report.
Key takeaways for Peterborough:
• Overall position: mid-20s/50 UK cities, one of the most improved year-on-year
• Strengths: transport, jobs, income distribution, health outcomes above average
• Positive momentum: improvements in jobs; youth and skills outcomes progressing
• Focus areas: environment and sustainability, high streets vitality, and 16–24 skills
Panel discussions:
Unlocking Growth: The Political Levers
This panel, sponsored by Newlands Property Developments, explored political leadership:
• Collaboration across councils, MPs, and partners is essential
• Mayor Paul Bristow highlighted Station Quarter as a model for partnership
• Inclusion of young people in planning ensures all voices are heard
• Sam Carling MP emphasised social impact and voluntary sector involvement
Our Opportunities, Our Future
Final discussions focused on delivery and tackling barriers to growth:
• Planning, perception, and business rates were flagged as critical issues
• Stagecoach East highlighted transport linking people to jobs and services
• Skills and training at the Centre for Green Tech at Peterborough College
• Combined local plans and collaboration provide tools for a shared growth vision
Our Strengths, Our Advantages
This panel, sponsored by Vast PR, highlighted Peterborough’s assets:
• Strong higher and further education and apprenticeship pathways
• Employment opportunities and progression routes to retain talent
• Culture, tourism, and nighttime economy add appeal
“Good collaboration looks like the room we’re sat in.”
The Summit reinforced the clear message: Peterborough has immense potential, and business, government, and education must collaborate to make growth tangible.
HR & Employment Summit
in partnership with the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) and Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP)
Chamber CEO Charlotte Horobin opened the summit, reflecting on six years of post-Covid workforce changes and the ongoing challenges businesses face: rising labour costs, 1 million young people not in employment, education or training, and recruitment struggles for 8 in 10 employers. The Chamber’s focus remains turning these challenges into opportunities through the Local Skills Improvement Plan, work experience, and initiatives across our region.
Keynote
Employment Rights Act
– Patrick Milnes, British Chambers of Commerce
Patrick Milnes unpacked the upcoming Employment Rights Act reforms:
• Phased implementation 2026–2027
• Statutory Sick Pay updates
• Day 1 maternity/paternity rights and bereavement leave
• Gender pay gap and menopause expectations for larger employers
Businesses are preparing for further changes in trade union rights, contracts, redundancy, zero-hours rules, and agency worker regulations.
Closing
Panel 1
Managing Sickness & Building a Fit, Resilient Workforce
Steve Botterill, Jacqui Kemp, Val Thomas and host Nel Woolcott shared strategies for workforce wellbeing:
• Listening culture and early intervention for stress
• Wellbeing as a business priority, reducing longterm sickness and costs
Members also have access to complimentary HR, H&S, legal, and tax support via Quest Cover.
Mayor Paul Bristow urged attendees to turn insights into real action. The summit reinforced that collaboration, innovative recruitment, employee wellbeing, and skills development are central to building a resilient workforce in Cambridgeshire & Peterborough.
“We must recognise and celebrate what makes us human” – James Hems
Recruiting Outside the Box
Nicola March, Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE DL, Katie Allen, Philip Mashinchi and host Megan Wilkins explored alternative recruitment strategies:
• Work experience, taster days, apprenticeships, paid internships
• Engaging schools and early talent pipelines
• Measuring recruitment success and retention
Preparing for AI –Skills, Jobs & L&D
Peter Vasey, Al Kingsley MBE, Yonghong Peng, Gemma Goddard, James Hems, and host Agnieszka IwasiewiczWabnig FRSA highlighted AI as an amplifier of human skills:
• AI strategy, governance, and change management are key for adoption
• Workforce training and AI literacy build confidence and inclusivity
Zoe Brennan, Events & Training Manager
Panel 2
Panel 3
National Apprenticeship Week: LSIP Highlights and Impact
In February, the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce marked National Apprenticeship Week (9–15 February), highlighting how apprenticeships support businesses, develop talent, and strengthen the local economy.
Charlotte Horobin, Chamber CEO, noted ongoing challenges, with around one million young people classed as NEET (not in education, employment, or training) and only 12,800 apprenticeship vacancies nationally. She emphasised that greater flexibility and more business-led guidance will be essential to closing this gap and ensuring opportunities are accessible to those who need them most.
Building on these conversations, the Peterborough Growth Summit in
January provided a platform for crosssector dialogue on skills, inclusion, and long-term economic resilience. Discussions reinforced a shared ambition across industry, education, and policy to better align training provision with real-world business needs and future workforce demands.
Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough, said, “Peterborough has a great population, but too often we have not had the skills or training to allow us to really thrive. Apprenticeship Week is about opportunity. This is about our future.”
Rachel Nicholls, CEO of Inspire Education Group, highlighted apprenticeships as a viable alternative to A-levels or university, while Nicola Marsh, CPCA Skills & Employment Manager, noted that employers can access fully funded apprenticeships alongside grants of up to £4,000.
Looking ahead, as the Employer Representative Body (ERB) for the LSIP for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, the Chamber is continuing
Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough
to play an active role in shaping the region’s skills landscape. Working closely with educators, training providers, and employers, we are helping to ensure that business voices are central to the design and delivery of apprenticeship programmes. The Chamber is advocating for a more responsive and inclusive system – one that reflects the evolving needs of local industries while creating clear, accessible pathways for individuals entering the workforce.
By strengthening partnerships across further and higher education, supporting employer engagement, and championing apprenticeships as a highquality route into skilled employment, the Chamber is committed to driving long-term change. The focus now is not only on raising awareness, but on building a sustainable talent pipeline that supports both economic growth and social mobility across the region.
LSIP Moves Forward: Reflecting on Action and Priorities for 2026–2029
As the LSIP enters its next phase, the Chamber reflects on the of work tackling skills shortages and strengthening the local workforce. Businesses, education providers, and skills partners contributed insights through interviews, surveys, and VideoAsk submissions, helping shape the evidence base for workforce planning from 2026 to 2029. “LSIPs are critical for developing the skilled workforce needs of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough,” said Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills. “I encourage businesses to
continue engaging with the Chamber to articulate their skills needs and work with local providers to develop solutions.”
Understanding the real skills needs of local businesses is at the heart of the LSIP. To ensure the plan truly reflected the priorities of local employers and stakeholders, the Chamber launched a multi-channel approach to gather insights from across the region.
The Chamber thanks all participants for their contributions. Their input provides a stronger evidence base, enabling tangible improvements to the local skills system and helping ensure training meets the real needs of businesses and the workforce.
Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Labour Market Update: Recovery, Skills, and Youth Opportunities
The Quarterly Labour Market Analysis Webinar, held on 26 March, brought together employers, training providers, and stakeholders to review the latest trends shaping the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough workforce.
Nicola March, Skills & Employment Manager at the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA), delivered a special update highlighting Youth Guarantee Trailblazer incentive and doubled apprenticeship support, helping employers bring young talent into their businesses. The report also showed that employment is recovering from its weakest conditions in over a decade, with the employment rate rebounding to 78.9%, unemployment at an eight-year low, and the number of adults not in employment, education, or training at a record low 15%.
Despite this recovery, job postings fell to their lowest level in 4.5 years. The webinar also highlighted the impact of AI on skills demand, particularly in digital roles, and noted that the new LSIP draft is nearing completion.
Delivered in partnership with the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), the webinar reinforced the importance of employer-led collaboration to address skills gaps, support young talent, and drive sustainable workforce growth across the region.
Apprenticeships:
Click here to book your place at the Quarterly Regional Labout Market Analysis Webinar Wednesday 10 June 11.00am-12.30pm
Further Education:
Qualifications:
Recruitment pressures:
Skills gaps:
reporting gaps fell
Thanks to local businesses and stakeholders, these insights are driving real change across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough’s skills system.
Unlocking Regional Talent: Tailored Support and Financial Incentives Can Future-Proof Your Workforce
Building a strong team is an ongoing challenge as our local economy evolves. At the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, our focus is to bridge the gap between local talent and the businesses that need them.
By working together to understand your specific skills gaps, we can shape a local workforce that gives learners meaningful careers while supporting your business’s long-term stability.
We know that bringing in new talent requires time and resources. To make that process easier, we offer practical funding and fully supported employment pathways to help you tap into fresh potential without carrying all the financial risk.
Financial Support for Employers
Whether you need rapid onboarding or long-term workforce development, we have structured internship and apprenticeship models designed to absorb the initial costs of bringing on new talent.
Internships
Our internship schemes offer flexible hours and direct financial subsidies to help you integrate fresh talent into your operations smoothly.
Apprenticeship Grants
To help cover training, onboarding, and operational costs, the CPCA offers an enhanced funding package to boost your apprenticeship programme.
• The Offer: Receive a grant of up to £4,000 for each 16–18-yearold apprentice you hire.
• The Bonus: This is in addition to the existing £1,000 government grant, making it incredibly affordable to nurture young candidates into highly skilled professionals.
Real World Impact
Financial incentives are only part of the equation. We actively collaborate with partners to ensure candidates have the mindset, behaviour, and foundational skills required to succeed in your workplace. Here is how our recent initiatives are bridging the skills gap across Cambridgeshire.
Case Study 1: Innovative Hiring with MM Flowers
Traditional CVs don’t always highlight a candidate’s true potential. Through the Ignite Into Industry programme, Inspire 2 Ignite partnered with MM Flowers to design an “Industry Experience Day.” The goal was to give young people realistic insights into large-scale production roles while allowing MM Flowers to assess candidates based on attitude, teamwork, and ability to follow instructions under pressure.
The day featured a guided factory tour, functional assessment stations, a team-based simulation exercise, and structured reflection. The results of this immersive hiring approach were exceptional:
• 8 young people attended the Experience Day.
• 2 participants were offered 12-week internships (via the CPCA Internship Programme).
• 6 participants were offered permanent roles with MM Flowers. For MM Flowers, the day provided a highly effective, low-risk way to identify motivated candidates in a real-world setting. For the young people, it offered clarity, confidence, and progression opportunities.
Case Study 2: Transforming Lives in Construction
At the Urban&Civic Waterbeach development, the Combined Authorityfunded Youth Guarantee Trailblazer programme is transitioning young adults who are Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET) into stable construction careers. Delivered with Constructed Pathways, this model removes barriers to entry through a two-step pathway: a lowpressure taster session followed by a rigorous six-week bootcamp.
Instructors note that the most profound changes aren’t technical, but behavioural. The curriculum heavily emphasizes discipline, conduct and maturity.
“Now I’m actually doing this course… yes, it’s knackering, but at the end of the day, I’m getting a good qualification and a stable job that will set me for life. I’d recommend it 110 per cent. They treat you amazingly.”
– George, Bootcamp Graduate (Now in full-time employment)
Out of a recent cohort of 11 learners at the Waterbeach facility, nine were previously NEET, proving the huge value of targeted, supportive interventions.
Charlotte Horobin, CEO of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, said:
“Businesses across our region want to hire and develop young talent, but there are still barriers for young people and employers. We welcome this programme, which provides support, apprenticeships, and clear pathways into work. It also backs employers who are creating these opportunities, helping ensure training and roles meet real local needs.”
The success of these programmes reinforces the value of combining high-quality employer engagement with intentional, fully supported programme design. When you partner with the Combined Authority, you aren’t just filling a vacancy; you are investing in the long-term success of your business and our community.
“Now I’m actually doing this course… yes, it’s knackering, but at the end of the day, I’m getting a good qualification and a stable job that will set me for life. I’d recommend it 110 per cent. They treat you amazingly.”
– George, Bootcamp Graduate (Now in full-time employment)
Our IT Support & IT Security Packages
Below are some packages we offer, each can be designed to provide tailored cyber security solutions to meet your organisation's specific needs.
Cambridge Support - IT Support Services
Unlimited Remote IT Support - 7am-7pm
Unlimited remote IT support, available 7am-7pm, Monday to Friday.
Inclusive Onsite IT Support
Expert engineers available on-site whenever you need hands-on support.
Connectivity & Network Support
Fast, secure, and reliable network connections for seamless operations.
Proactive Maintenance and Monitoring
Detecting and resolving IT issues before they impact your business.
Backup Monitoring & Alerting
Constantly safeguarding your data with real-time monitoring and alerts.
Dedicated Service Delivery Team
A committed team ensuring smooth IT operations and great service.
IT Roadmapping and Transparent Reporting
Strategic IT planning with full visibility into your technology.
IT Consultancy and Technical Pre-Sales
Expert guidance and tailored solutions to align IT with your goals.
Enhanced Security Services - Partnering with CCS
Monthly Vulnerability Scanning & Remediation
Identify, assess, and remediate IT enviroment security risks.
Monthly Phishing Simulation & Online Training
Simulate, educate, and strengthen against phishing threats.
Security Consulting Team & Roadmap
Strategic consulting for a safer future.
Incident Response & Disaster Recovery Testing
Resilient planning, audited assurance.
Enhanced Security Services with Certification - Partnering with CCS
Annual Cyber Essentials Standard Certification
Strengthening security with certified audits and certification.
Quarterly Enhanced Security Reporting
Stay ahead with real time security insights.
Peterborough Top 100 Awards
Marking 100 years of Cambridgshire Chamber of Commerce in Peterborough
Centenary Dinner
Nominate your:
Innovator
Rising Star
Civic Leader
Talent Champion
Environmental Impact Champion
Global Growth Champion
Community Impact
Workplace Champion
Business Leader
Nominations close Sunday 31 May!
CambsB2B North Returns
Thursday 11 June | Holiday Inn Peterborough West
One Day. Hundreds of Businesses. Endless Opportunity.
CambsB2B North is our annual event and exhibiton to bring the Peterborough, Stamford and Cambridgeshire buisness community together to:
Enable businesses to reach new audiences
Catalyse trading opportunities
Share experiences and inspire success
Discuss local, regional and national issues facing business
Galvanise the economic community
Agenda
8.00-9.45am - Business Breakfast
10.00am-3.00pm - Exhibition
An agenda of speakers will feature expert insights for business growth
3.00-5.00pm - Drinks Reception
Exhibit your business at this event and showcase your products and services directly to your target audience, build valuable connections, and increase brand visibility.
Sponsorship opportunities are available to support a number of activities across the day, benefit from pre-event marketing, event-day visibility, and post-event recognition. Put your brand in front of the decision-makers. To learn more, please reach out to events@cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk or call 01223 237414.
Click here book your place
Celebrating 100 years of the Chamber in Peterborough.
A milestone moment for the North Cambridgeshire Training Centre
When 16-year-old Oliver Newman walked through the doors of the North Cambridgeshire Training Centre (NCTC) to begin his apprenticeship as a machine technician, he became the centre’s 500th apprentice – a landmark moment celebrated during National Apprenticeship Week in February. “Every single day I’m learning something new; I’m really enjoying it,” he said.
Oliver’s milestone reflects a much bigger story unfolding across the region. Over the last 12 months, the Cambridge and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) has reported a 171% increase in apprenticeship starts, nearly tripling the number of opportunities created for local people compared to the previous year. NCTC sits at the heart of that growth. The state-of-the-art training facilities, based in Chatteris, were built as part of a collaboration between Stainless Metalcraft Ltd and Eastern Education Group, with support from CPCA. The centre offers specialised courses in engineering, advanced manufacturing, management and business support
apprenticeships, alongside leisure learning options, maths and English qualifications, management programmes, science pathways and commercial courses. It has quickly become a vital hub for local residents looking to upskill, retrain, or take their very first steps into employment.
Oliver trains at Stainless Metalcraft Ltd, a long-standing engineering firm based next to the training centre. Chris Duggan, Managing Director at Stainless Metalcraft, has seen first-hand the value of the partnership: “Working with organisations like NCTC and Eastern Education Group can really smooth the process. They are specialists in education delivery.
They care about what they are doing and are willing to adapt delivery models to meet the specific skills needs of the employer, which is incredibly valuable.”
Oliver was awarded a commemorative certificate by the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Paul Bristow, who visited the centre for the event.
“Addressing the skills gap in our region is central to achieving the level of growth we’ve set out in our Local Growth Plan,” he said. “It’s only with the help of education facilities such as NCTC that we can create the next generation of skilled workers.”
Laraine Moody, Group Principal of University and Professional Development at Eastern Education Group, described the milestone as a moment to savour –and a springboard for what comes next.
“We are delighted to have signed up our 500th apprentice and we are very grateful to the CPCA, Stainless Metalcraft Ltd and other industry partners for their ongoing support.
“They have all been incredibly supportive and our relationship with them all continues to go from strength to strength. We are going to continue to push the boundaries, keep pushing the skills levels and upping the ante in everything we do.
“Finally, a massive thank you to the community of Chatteris and Cambridgeshire for trusting us to support them to get the skills they need to flourish.”
That ambition is already translating into action. Eastern Education Group has plans to open further training centres in Ely, Soham, and St Neots, extending the NCTC model to more communities across the region.
This significant milestone is not just a celebration of numbers, but of people, partnerships and the lifechanging power of education.
Chamber Case Study
From your perspective, what makes Gen Z’s approach to job hunting so different from previous generations?
We know that Gen Z are looking for more than a job title and a decent salary. Although they still want career progression, there is a greater focus on work life balance, learning and development. These people want a balance between meaningful work and climbing the career ladder.
When job hunting, they want to be reassured that any prospective employer can match their values, and social media is a great platform to show a brand’s true culture. Many Gen Z jobseekers are using these platforms to identify brands they want to work for, when job boards can feel outdated, overly formal, or disconnected from the real working world.
In a recent study by Potentialpark, a third of candidates said they have found information on career websites that they deemed untrustworthy. Social media can provide a more grounded, realistic and trustworthy view of an organisation.
You highlight the importance of transparency and authenticity – how do you help clients strike the right balance between being “on trend” and staying true to their brand values?
For Gen Z applicants, authenticity is key. We start by helping clients clearly understand who they want to attract, what motivates them, and where they are most likely to engage with employer content.
Being “on trend” is one thing and can help with visibility, but it must always be rooted in a company’s true brand values and employee proposition. Gen Z candidates quickly spot inauthentic messaging, so it’s really important to genuinely reflect your business culture and experience.
How can employers prepare young people for a recruitment landscape driven by content creation and social engagement?
Recruitment driven by content and social engagement changes what “job-ready” really means, for young people and employers.
Young people need to understand how social platforms work, how algorithms shape visibility, and how to tell their story online in a way that feels authentic.
To attract younger talent, employers have to show up and be more open about who they are, sharing real people, real culture and real values, whilst staying on brand.
What challenges come with recruiting through platforms like TikTok?
Social media can be great for visibility and reach, but there are some things to watch out for. Algorithms tend to prioritise content based on engagement, which can unintentionally amplify stereotypes or favour certain demographics, limiting diversity in who sees job opportunities.
The format also encourages quick, punchy content, which can oversimplify roles if you’re not careful. It’s easy to make a job look great in 15 seconds, but that needs backing up with clearer detail somewhere else. We just need to
appreciate that this is a top-of-funnel channel for sparking interest, rather than to run the whole hiring process.
How can smaller employers with limited resources tap into this trend effectively?
Social media is the perfect channel for smaller businesses with limited budgets. The key is to keep it simple. Pick one platform and do it well, based on who you’re trying to attract and where they’re most likely to spend their time.
Focus on telling stories and being real. Potentialpark found that 52% of UK candidates rated real employee stories, showcasing concrete examples of professional growth and development opportunities, as an authentic way to demonstrate company culture.
By Stephen Anderson, CEO, crooton
Corporate Connections, Elevated at Newmarket Racecourse
Set against the rolling Suffolk countryside, Newmarket Racecourses offers far more than world-class horse racing – it provides a unique platform for businesses to connect, reward, and grow. For organisations across Cambridgeshire and beyond, corporate annual memberships present a powerful opportunity to elevate client relationships and enhance team experiences in a setting synonymous with prestige and heritage.
In today’s competitive landscape, meaningful engagement matters more than ever. Entertaining clients over a memorable day at the races creates lasting impressions that go far beyond the boardroom. From the thrill of live racing to exceptional hospitality, Newmarket delivers an environment where conversations flow naturally and partnerships are strengthened.
Corporate annual membership unlocks a full calendar of racing events, giving businesses the flexibility to host clients or reward employees throughout
the season. Whether it’s the energy of a summer evening meet or the elegance of flagship fixtures, each raceday offers a fresh opportunity to showcase your brand in a premium setting. Members enjoy access to exclusive facilities, discounted hospitality, and dedicated support –ensuring every visit runs seamlessly.
But the benefits extend well beyond raceday. Membership positions your organisation within a network of likeminded businesses, opening doors to new connections and collaborations. In a region as dynamic as Cambridgeshire, where innovation and enterprise thrive, these moments of informal networking can be invaluable. Sharing a table overlooking the famous Rowley Mile or July Course often sparks conversations that lead to real commercial opportunities.
Equally important is the internal impact. Recognising and rewarding your team is essential for retention and morale, and few experiences match the excitement of a day at Newmarket. Corporate membership allows you to offer staff something genuinely special – an
occasion that blends sport, socialising, and celebration. It’s a gesture that resonates, reinforcing a culture where people feel valued and motivated.
For businesses seeking a distinctive way to entertain, engage, and inspire, Newmarket Racecourses provides a compelling solution. With its rich heritage, exceptional facilities, and unrivalled atmosphere, it remains one of the UK’s premier destinations for corporate hospitality.
In a world where relationships drive success, investing in experiences that bring people together is a smart move. Corporate annual membership at Newmarket Racecourses isn’t just about attending events – it’s about creating moments that matter, building stronger connections, and positioning your business at the heart of a vibrant professional community.
Cambridge: global powerhouse of innovation and investment
Cambridge continues to emerge as a global powerhouse of innovation and investment. Barclays’ Regional Investment Map showed that in Q4 2025, its home region – the East of England – saw £272 million in equity investment and counts over 510,000 active companies, with Cambridge driving much of this high-growth activity.
Cambridge’s strengths in life sciences, digital technologies, professional business services and advanced manufacturing align with the UK’s eight priority “Industrial Strategy” sectors (IS8) – fields that collectively attracted 88.5% of all UK equity funding in Q4. These sectors are also at the heart of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority’s Local Growth Plan published last year.
The region also benefits from strong collaboration between businesses, universities and accelerators, which contribute to accelerate innovation. That momentum is reflected in the East of England’s strong pipeline of commercialisation, with 345 spinouts based in the region. Together, this depth of innovation and capital underpins Cambridge’s significant contribution to UK’s economy and international trade.
Matt Keenan, newly appointed Relationship Director for Cambridge, notes: “Even amid geopolitical uncertainty and cost pressures, the Cambridge business community continues to nurture high-growth, innovative enterprises. Businesses have shown real resilience in a challenging environment – adapting with agility and a steadfast determination to
scale. As we enter the second quarter, there is an opportunity to convert that underlying confidence into further investment and growth, and Barclays is here to help bridge that gap.”
If you’re looking to unlock growth opportunities, our £22bn Business Prosperity Fund is available through some of our borrowing and refinancing options. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss or if you have any questions. You can reach me on matt.keenan@barclays.com and 07384 239596.
YOUR RECRUITMENT PARTNER FOR GROWTH
Businesses and residents invited to shape future events at East of England Showground
Businesses, residents and event organisers across Peterborough are being invited to help shape the future of leisure, entertainment and business events at the East of England Showground.
A new public consultation has been launched by Asset Earning Power Group (AEPG), a Patron of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, exploring ideas for how part of the historic venue could host a new programme of events in the years ahead.
The consultation focuses on a 50acre area of the Showground, which benefits from established infrastructure including the Arena, exhibition halls and extensive parking capable of supporting large-scale events.
AEPG is seeking feedback from the local community, businesses and event organisers on the types of activities they would like to see hosted at the venue. Potential uses could include exhibitions and trade shows, live entertainment and music events, festivals, conferences and business events, as well as community and cultural gatherings.
The Showground has played an important role in the region for decades, attracting visitors from across the UK to major events and helping to support the local visitor economy.
Ashley Butterfield, Chief Executive of Asset Earning Power Group, said:
“The Showground has been part of Peterborough’s story for generations. Our focus is on strengthening its role as a destination for major events and leisure activity while building a sustainable programme of events for the years ahead.
“We are keen to hear from residents, businesses and event organisers about the types of activities they would like to see take place here.”
Charlotte Horobin, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce said:
“The East of England Showground has long been one of the region’s most recognisable venues for major events, exhibitions and business gatherings.
“It is encouraging to see ideas being explored that could bring more visitors, events and opportunities to Peterborough while supporting the city’s growing visitor and events economy.
“We would encourage businesses and community groups to share their ideas and help shape the future of this important venue.”
Ideas and event proposals can be submitted by emailing info@aepguk.com
Further announcements about potential events and programming are expected later this year.
“We are keen to hear from residents, businesses and event organisers about the types of activities they would like to see take place here.”
Ashley Butterfield,
Chief Executive of Asset Earning Power Group
Princebuild Women in Construction Week
Lyndsey Hilton
Building Services Electrician (JIB Approved)
Overview of the role
Lyndsey works as a Building Services Electrician, delivering electrical services across a range of commercial and domestic installations.
What she enjoys about her role
Lyndsey enjoys the variety her role brings, with no two jobs or sites being the same. She values working across different environments, meeting new people, reconnecting with colleagues, and continuing to develop her knowledge and skills.
Challenges and barriers faced
Lyndsey’s route into the electrical industry was not entirely straightforward. When first looking to train, electrical courses were full, which meant exploring alternative options before returning to electrical training. In 2004, she began her career through an apprenticeship arranged via Boston Training Agency and Boston College.
Working within a traditionally maledominated industry has also presented challenges, particularly early in her career, as she adjusted to site environments and team dynamics. Alongside this, balancing work with family life following the birth of her son, including returning after maternity leave and arranging childcare, required adjustment. Over time, these challenges were managed, allowing Lyndsey to build a successful career in the electrical industry.
Izmaat Qureshi (Izzie)
Project Manager
Overview of the role
Izmaat (Izzie) Qureshi is a Project Manager and alongside her role, she is studying for a BSc in Construction Management through an apprenticeship degree. Her role involves ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget.
What she enjoys about her role
Izzie enjoys the variety and responsibility that comes with her role – one day resolving a site issue, the next meeting clients or reviewing budgets. She enjoys the problem-solving aspect and the satisfaction of seeing a project come together from start to finish. Building strong relationships with clients and site teams is also important, and she finds it rewarding to hand over a completed project knowing she has played a key role.
Challenges and barriers faced
Working in construction as a woman has come with its challenges. The industry remains male-dominated, and early on Izzie had to build confidence, establish credibility and ensure her voice was heard. There have been moments where she has had to prove herself more than others, but these experiences have strengthened her resilience and leadership skills. Over time, Izzie has built strong working relationships and gained respect through consistency, professionalism and delivering results. She is proud to be part of an industry that is becoming more inclusive and hopes to encourage more women to consider careers in construction.
Elisha Temple
Pre Construction Manager
Overview of the role
Elisha’s role varies depending on the client. For Waitrose, she is responsible for pre-construction and design management, as well as commercial management including tendering, valuations, change management, cash flow, final accounts and invoicing. For Boots, she oversees all of the above in addition to full project management responsibilities.
What she enjoys about her role
Elisha enjoys that no two projects are the same, each bringing its own challenges that require problemsolving. She thrives on process and organisation, particularly working on spreadsheets and providing clients with clear, comprehensive information.
Challenges and barriers faced
Earlier in her career, particularly when running projects on site, Elisha found working alongside individuals with extensive experience could be challenging, as some did not always appreciate being managed by someone younger and female. Although now rare, she still occasionally encounters subtle sexism, particularly with new contacts.
Once her knowledge and capability are understood, any initial doubt tends to subside. Over time, Elisha’s confidence in holding individuals accountable has grown, supported by strong professional relationships with colleagues who consistently back her.
From Scrap to Sustainability: Using Strategic Communication to Tell a Rubbish Story
Behind every recycling bin and waste transfer note sits a complex system that underpins all British business, a system that is rarely talked about. That system was thrown into the spotlight when Waste Mission asked We Do Stories to support its rebrand, transitioning from scrap metal recycling into sustainable waste management.
Building credibility with manufacturers
Waste Mission partnered with PR agency We Do Stories to raise awareness of the new brand and strengthen its reputation.
We Do Stories delivered a series of storycentric campaigns to increase visibility across both traditional and digital media. The work demonstrated Waste Mission as a credible partner for manufacturers and engineering firms, making complex waste streams simple from a single point of contact.
For four decades, the business operated as Alchemy Metals, a family-owned scrap metal recycling company. Over time, the company evolved to handle a broad range of commercial waste streams. By 2024, the team recognised that the original brand no longer reflected the scope of the operation. A new name, Waste Mission, was developed to signal a broader purpose and commitment to responsible waste management.
The company needed brand recognition, reassurance for long-standing clients, credibility across all waste streams, and a way to introduce its services to new manufacturing partners.
We Do Stories shared articles across owned channels, with industry news, updates and stories shared through Waste Mission’s customer portal, monthly newsletters and website to keep audiences engaged while building credibility and loyalty.
We Do Stories also managed Waste Mission’s website, including redesigning pages to improve conversion rates and building new high-value pages to support enquiries and lead generation.
Topics covered included how manufacturers could manage waste responsibly, work towards ISO 14001 certification, improve ESG reporting, and reduce operational costs, all supported by practical case studies from Waste Mission clients.
Putting waste management at the heart of sustainability
The campaigns secured 164 pieces of media coverage, generating backlinks and brand mentions from respected industry outlets and tier-one media. Those articles reached a combined audience of over 600 million viewers.
Through We Do Stories’ work, search and AI performance improved. The Waste Mission website ranked on Google for more than 750 relevant industry search terms and 200 AI citations. That meant procurement managers, operations teams and environmental managers searching for waste solutions increasingly encountered the brand.
Digital activity reinforced the campaigns. Targeted social posts increased engagement by more than 1,800 per cent, while impressions increased by over 900 per cent.
Content shared through the website, client portal and monthly newsletters kept audiences coming back to owned media channels while increasing the brand’s visibility, credibility and conversion rates.
Turning expertise into industry authority
For Waste Mission, the campaigns achieved more than a successful rebrand. It helped translate technical knowledge into stories that resonated with manufacturing audiences.
Nicola Guest, Group Marketing and Procurement Manager at Waste Mission, says
“They helped us build real momentum, delivering a wide range of content and campaign assets and supporting several key exhibitions and announcements. They were consistently responsive, organised and straightforward to deal with.
Like any long-term partnership, our requirements evolved over time, and they adapted with us...we genuinely appreciate the work delivered over the past two years and the platform it has helped us create.”
Written by Anne Buckland, Co Founder & Director of PR
Price Bailey announces five new Partner level appointments
Leading accountancy firm Price Bailey announces the successful appointment of five senior team members who will move into the firm’s Partner team, including two external appointments and three internal promotions. This comes following the appointment of Matt Leggett, who joined Price Bailey through the acquisition of External Accounts Ltd back in November 2025, a move that expanded the firm’s presence across Norwich and Great Yarmouth. The new appointments bring the Price Bailey Partnership team to a total of 51. Bryn Anderson joins as Partner in the Strategic Corporate Finance team, bringing specialist expertise in valuations. Bryn has particular expertise in the sports sector and in the valuation of brands and intellectual property, supporting strategic business and IP decision-making.
Anthony Davies joins as Partner in the Tax team, adding further technical depth to the firm’s tax advisory team. His experience includes M&A, tax due diligence and business restructurings. He also advises clients on a broad range of UK and cross-border tax matters, including exit planning and the practical application of double tax treaties.
A longstanding member of the firm, Karen Buttrey, who first joined Price Bailey in 2000, is promoted to Partner within the Finance team. Her appointment reflects her enduring contribution and deep operational knowledge developed over 26 years within the business.
Stella Athanasiadou is promoted to Partner in the Audit & Assurance team. Stella joined Price Bailey as a trainee in 2015 and has since become a trusted specialist supporting a wide portfolio of clients. Stella specialises in delivering audit services to large companies and
complex groups, with a particular focus on the retail and manufacturing sectors.
Stephan Schmitt is also promoted to Partner in the Audit & Assurance team. Stephan joined the firm in 2017 and has specialist expertise working with UK subsidiaries of international groups, alongside UK based international groups.
Martin Clapson, Managing Director at Price Bailey, comments: “Our Partnership team plays a central role in the delivery of our exceptional service to our clients and the development of our people, so these appointments mark an important milestone. Each new Partner brings valuable experience and perspective, and we are pleased to recognise both long-standing colleagues and talented new joiners.”
From left to right: Anthony Davies, Stella Athanasiadou, Karen Buttrey, Matt Leggett, Bryn Anderson, Stephan Schmitt
Why Doing Nothing on AI is the Biggest Risk for Small Businesses
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant prospect. It is here, reshaping how businesses operate at every level. For smaller businesses, the question is no longer whether to engage with AI, but what happens if they fail to. Organisations that adopt it effectively will use it to learn, improve and scale. Those that don’t, risk falling behind competitors that move faster and build stronger foundations.
Major technological shifts have always created winners and losers. Companies that failed to digitise during the rise of the internet often didn’t survive, and AI represents a similar inflection point. Some roles will change, others may disappear, but the opportunity to achieve more, for businesses and society, is enormous. The key is to engage in a structured way and build capability over time. Doing nothing is the real risk.
Buying new technology and truly transforming how a business operates are two very different things. Many organisations invest in new tools without seeing meaningful operational change, and the difference usually comes down to leadership. Leaders need to bring their teams on the journey, explaining why change is happening and what success looks like. Without that, even the best technology struggles to gain traction.
There needs to be a culture of challenging assumptions. Teams need systems that they can tweak and extend with confidence, rather than rigid platforms that cannot evolve with the organisation. One example is Petals Charity, which replaced dozens of spreadsheets with a unified Kinabase system that automated workflows, improved reporting, and freed the team to focus on supporting more families. Digital knowledge plays a critical role. Organisations that invest time in understanding the full capabilities of a tool, through hands-on configuration rather than theory alone, are consistently the ones that see the biggest outcomes. Ask what the fastest, most effective way to keep your customers happy looks like, then work backwards. Don’t just digitise a broken process, but question whether that process should even exist.
For many businesses, modernisation is complicated by legacy systems and fragmented tools. Process mapping is the best first step. Get your team together and draw out what happens from the moment a client makes contact through to final invoice. Teams often discover things about their own operations they did not previously realise, and that clarity is essential because you cannot modernise what you do not fully understand.
Organisations need to know what ‘good’ looks like, and which systems
are duplicated or not talking to each other. Legacy migration can be difficult, but the answer is to return to first principles: what are we trying to achieve, and what customer service do we want to deliver? From there, progress should be practical and phased. Tackle one thing at a time, improve it, then move on. The goal is a single source of truth, and cleaner data flows.
AI will widen the gap between organisations that embrace this shift, and those that delay. The ones that benefit most will not be chasing hype but building the confidence and systems to use it well.
The Kinabase team is running digital transformation workshops, designed to help businesses take practical steps towards smarter operations. Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce members get 5% off. Get in touch to find out more.
In-House IT vs Managed IT Support: A Comparison for Growing Companies
As your business grows, so does your reliance on technology which poses a valid question. Should you build an in-house IT support team, or partner with a managed IT support provider?
What Is Managed IT Support?
Managed IT support is a service model in which a business outsources its day-to-day IT operations to an external provider, known as a Managed Service Provider (MSP). Rather than employing a dedicated in-house IT team, you pay a fixed monthly fee. This is in exchange for proactive monitoring, helpdesk support, cyber security management, software patching, data backup, and strategic IT guidance.
The Case for Managed IT Support
Instead of one or two generalist employees, managed IT support gives you access to a team of specialists across various areas. These are cyber security, cloud infrastructure, networking, and compliance, at a predictable monthly cost. Technology moves quickly, and an MSP employs specialists across each discipline, meaning your business benefits from deep knowledge without continuously hiring for every emerging skill area.
Availability is another critical factor. An in-house employee works standard business hours and takes holidays. An MSP provides coverage well beyond the working day, with 24/7 support plans (if required) available for businesses where downtime is expensive.
The Case for In-House IT Support
For some businesses, building an internal IT team makes complete sense. Having staff on-site who know your systems intimately and can respond immediately to physical hardware issues is genuinely valuable. This is usually beneficial for larger organisations with complex, bespoke infrastructure. In-house IT tends to work best when a business has highly specialised or regulated systems, strict data sovereignty requirements, or 200+ employees operating across multiple sites.
Scalability and Growth: Which Model Keeps Up?
When your business grows, your IT needs to grow with it. With an in-house team, growth means hiring; a process that typically takes three to six months, during which existing staff absorb additional pressure. Managed IT support scales differently. Adding new users is as straightforward as notifying your provider and adjusting your contract, with no recruitment delay or gap in coverage.
The Hybrid Option: Co-Managed IT Support
The choice isn’t always binary. A growing number of UK businesses retain one or two internal IT staff for strategic oversight whilst outsourcing day-to-day monitoring and security to an MSP. This works particularly well for businesses in the 50–200 employee range.
Which Model Is Right for Your Business?
Under 50 employees, managed IT support will almost certainly offer better value. Between 50 and 200, a co-managed hybrid is often the most sensible approach. Beyond 200, a full internal department may be justified, potentially supplemented by specialist managed services.
Whatever model you choose, the most important decision is to choose proactively before a security incident or rapid growth makes the decision for you.
“An MSP provides coverage well beyond the working day, with 24/7 support plans (if required) available...”
Mark
Endersby
Supply Chain Cyber Security Risks
Modern businesses rely on complex, supply chains and while this connectivity drives efficiency, it also creates potential risk. Supply chain cyber attacks have become one of the most dangerous and difficult-to-defend threats in the digital landscape.
A supply chain cyber attack occurs when a malicious actor infiltrates a business not directly, but through a trusted third party in its supply chain. Rather than attacking a hardened target head-on, adversaries exploit weaker links, such as a software vendor, or hardware manufacturer, to gain a foothold and move laterally into the primary target. This is how last year attackers were able to infiltrate M&S, through a third party supplier. M&S estimated that the breach cost the company over £300 million in lost profit.
Why Supply Chains Are Difficult to Secure
The fundamental challenge is one of visibility and control. Companies can rigorously secure their own networks, but they often have limited oversight over their supply chain. A supplier may lack the resources or expertise to maintain robust defences yet hold the keys to sensitive data or critical systems. Supply chains are also inherently dynamic, with vendors being added, updated, or replaced frequently. Each change introduces new potential vulnerabilities, and security assessments conducted at onboarding can quickly become outdated.
Reducing Your Risk with Cyber Essentials
Businesses should adopt a zero-trust architecture from the outset, verifying every connection and access request regardless of its origin. This would be treating no user, device, or system as inherently trustworthy. Proactive vendor risk management programmes, including regular security audits and contractual security requirements established before onboarding suppliers, are essential to preventing vulnerabilities from entering the supply chain in the first place. Network segmentation, strong identity and access management, and continuous monitoring for anomalous behaviour all help reduce the likelihood of a supply chain compromise and limit its impact if it occurs.
Critically, organisations should consider requiring their most vital suppliers to achieve and maintain a valid Cyber Essentials or Cyber Essentials Plus certification. These government-backed schemes provide a clear, independently verified baseline of cyber hygiene. It covers fundamental controls such as firewalls, secure configuration, access control, malware protection, and patch management. By embedding this as a minimum standard within supplier contracts you can produce a securer supply chain. This is instead of relying on self-reported assurances that may be difficult to verify.
St James’s Place, a wealth management firm, reported an 80% reduction in cyber security incidents after mandating
Cyber Essentials Plus across its partner network. Companies that hold a Cyber Essentials certification are reported to be 92% less likely to make a cyber insurance claim. Therefore, we strongly recommend that your company becomes Cyber Essentials certified first, then set it as a standard for doing business within your supply chain.
Conclusion
Supply chain cyber security is no longer a niche concern; it is a boardlevel priority. As attackers grow more sophisticated in exploiting trusted relationships, companies must extend their security posture beyond their own perimeter, treating every third-party connection as a potential vulnerability.
Need Support?
If you’re unsure how secure your supply chain really is, or whether your organisation meets the expectations of customers, insurers, or defence partners, we can help.
At Cambridge Cyber Security, we support organisations with practical, proportionate solutions from Cyber Essentials and Defence Cyber Certification to ongoing security guidance. Start by understanding your current position and where your risks may be.
For IT That Just Works –It Helps to Be Local
When you run a business in Cambridgeshire, you rely on things working. People, partnerships and increasingly, technology.
As the Chamber celebrates 100 years, it’s a good moment to reflect on what keeps businesses here running smoothly and how that’s evolving.
IT Naturally is a Peterborough-based IT Managed Service Provider. From our offices at Lynch Wood, we support organisations across the UK and internationally delivering enterprise-grade IT for businesses where technology simply has to work.
Our story started in 2019 as another came to an end. Condor, an airline under the Thomas Cook Group, knew it had to strike out on its own to survive the travel giants’ collapse. They needed a company that would take over their IT infrastructure services.
From the very beginning, the goal was ambitious: to seamlessly take over Condor’s fragile IT infrastructure, keeping everything running smoothly, and then to downsize it from supporting 23,000 employees to 5,000 – all without a hitch.
But we did it, and that same calm, structured approach underpins every customer we support today.
We’re proud to be part of the Cambridgeshire Chamber community,
not just as club members, but as active contributors. Whether that’s hosting roundtables at our office or sharing insights on topics like cyber security and sustainable IT.
And when it comes to IT, proximity can make all the difference. When something goes wrong, or when you’re planning change, having a partner nearby who understands your business environment and can be on-site when needed, makes a real difference.
From our base in Peterborough, we deliver 24/7 proactive support, cyber security, cloud and Microsoft 365 services, and full infrastructure management. Our customers range from local charities and businesses to complex, high-stakes organisations, all with one common goal: they want IT to just work.
There’s another side to our approach that often surprises people when they visit us.
After the recent Chamber roundtable at our office, we had some great feedback on our team and space. What many didn’t realise? Much of our furniture is reused, and we configure our tech sustainably because as a B Corp™, it’s simply how we work.
At home, we’re learning to buy less, reuse more, and recycle properly. But in the workplace, it’s often the opposite.
New starter – new laptop.
Old kit – stored and forgotten.
Does your office have a cupboard of doom? (You know the know with old cables, laptops, and bits we’ve saved for a rainy day?
At IT Naturally, we bring the home mindset into business technology:
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
Reduce what you’re running. Reuse what you already have. Recycle responsibly when you’re done.
It’s a simple shift, but it makes a real difference; lowering energy use, reducing waste, and helping businesses run more efficient, sustainable IT.
As the Chamber continues to champion businesses across Cambridgeshire, we’re proud to play our part, combining local presence with enterprise capability, and helping organisations build IT environments that are smooth, secure and sustainable.
We’ll show you how secure your M365 environment really is, highlighting risks, gaps, and what to fix first.
Better IT isn’t just about performance; it’s about running smarter and more sustainably too.
If you’re an SME in Cambridgeshire with 50+ users, here’s how to get started: 01733 964 964 enquiries@itnaturally.com www.itnaturally.com
High-net-worth blind spots: areas of financial advice you can’t afford to miss
Most entrepreneurs we meet can easily recite figures about business revenue and margins. But with all the focus on growth, it’s easy for wider financial planning to be missed. In our experience, three areas tend to be overlooked, and the consequences can be dramatic.
Asset rich, option poor – the problems with wealth concentration
It’s natural for business founders to concentrate the bulk of their net worth in one company – but does this indicate conviction or undue risk? The drawback is that assets can become illiquid and tax-inefficiencies appear outside the business, and can give rise to complex wealth succession issues for your family.
There are ways to de-risk your position without the need to dispose of the business assets in full, improving your personal position while retaining control.
One such example is pensions, which can be an extremely tax-efficient tool and are too often underutilised as they allow Corporation Tax-deductible contributions, with a £60,000 standard annual allowance per employee and carry forward possibilities.
Family matters – wealth transfer and Inheritance Tax
Over the next 30 years in the UK, it’s expected that up to £7 trillion will be transferred from ‘baby boomers’ to the next generation1!
Succession planning can be a highly complex and emotionally sensitive area of financial planning, with each
situation being unique. You’re likely to have questions such as; Will your children want to run the business? How do you treat active and non-active heirs fairly? When does it make sense to gift shares? How might changes to Business Relief affect your family’s position?
Significant changes have been announced by the Government that could impact on your plans, and finding the right financial advice can make a huge impact on your business and your family. We can help with planning opportunities that will help you, your business and your family plan for your future objectives in the most appropriate way, whether that be gifting, using the available tax allowances, trusts of other investment structures, to ensure maximum flexibility, efficiency and control.
Contingency planning – the importance of protecting your family’s assets
You wouldn’t consider leaving your company premises uninsured, but what about your key staff members?
If you were unable to work for a prolonged period, what happens to the equity you’ve built, and could this jeopardise a future business sale?
Business protection is one of the most common blind spots we encounter, and a lack of appropriate cover could have severe and lasting financial consequences. The good news is that there are many options available to ensure that your business protection requirements are provided for.
Conclusion
Entrepreneurs are exceptional at identifying opportunity, but spotting personal financial risk is a different skill. Protecting your accumulated wealth – whether held within the business or personally – safeguards what you’ve built for both you and your wider family, and gives you the confidence that you can keep growing your business and maximising the available opportunities.
AI is raising the baseline for speed and service - quoting, reporting, customer response, and day-to-day operations.
AI is raising the baseline for speed and service - quoting, reporting, customer response, and day-to-day operations.
Advantage AGI helps SMEs implement AI that produces real outcomes. Cambridge-based. Practical.
Advantage AGI helps SMEs implement AI that produces real outcomes. Cambridge-based. Practical.
Advantage AGI helps SMEs implement AI that produces real outcomes. Cambridge-based. Practical.
Built to be trustworthy, transparent, and genuinely useful.
Built to be trustworthy, transparent, and genuinely useful.
Built to be trustworthy, transparent, and genuinely useful.
We build AI across your business: automation, assistants, and customer workflows - plus AI that connects to your data and systems, letting your team ask questions and get answers instantly.
We build AI across your business: automation, assistants, and customer workflows - plus AI that connects to your data and systems, letting your team ask questions and get answers instantly.
We build AI across your business: automation, assistants, and customer workflows - plus AI that connects to your data and systems, letting your team ask questions and get answers instantly.
AI strategy • Automation • Customer service • Sales support • Internal knowledge • AI data queries • Training.
AI strategy • Automation • Customer service • Sales support • Internal knowledge • AI data queries • Training.
AI strategy • Automation • Customer service • Sales support • Internal knowledge • AI data queries • Training.
Have Questions?
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Event round-ups
Private Roundtable Lunch
with Darryl Preston
Businesses met with the Police and Crime Commissioner to discuss policing priorities, including funding pressures, workforce challenges, cyber crime, anti-social behaviour and the role of technology.
Ely Networking – AI
AI adoption is as much about behaviour as technology. With only 3% of the workforce currently proficient, businesses must prioritise critical thinking, communication and continuous skills development to remain competitive. Thanks to Peter Vasey (More Efficient AI) for his keynote. Sponsored by Grovemere Property.
Construction & Property Breakfast
Updates from Urban&Civic and industry leaders highlighted both opportunity and constraint across the sector. Constructed Pathways demonstrated practical solutions to skills shortages by linking training directly to employment and reducing barriers to entry.
Chamber Patron & Club Dinner
Hosted by The Old Hall, Ely, this exclusive dinner brought senior members together to share insight and strengthen partnerships. High Sheriff, Frances Stanley reinforced the importance of leadership and community in supporting regional growth.
Employment Rights Essentials
Legal experts from Birketts outlined key employment law updates, helping businesses manage risk, control rising labour costs and prepare for upcoming regulatory changes.
Recruiting & Retaining Talent in Fenland
Apprenticeships were highlighted as a critical solution to skills shortages. Employers were encouraged to invest early in talent to build loyalty and sustainability. Mark Thurston shared his journey from apprentice to CEO of Anglian Water, alongside insights from apprentices on their experiences.
Business Leaders Gathering – Citizen Hub
With major developments such as Universal coming to Bedfordshire and LSIP priorities identifying future skills demand, businesses were urged to engage early in workforce planning to maximise emerging economic opportunities.
Eastern Education Group Apprenticeship Levy Roadshow
We supported Patron member Eastern Education Group at their Apprenticeship Levy Roadshow, championing the Local Skills Improvement Plan and our role in aligning employers, educators and training providers to future skills needs.
The Strategic Cost of Compliance
In partnership with Avalara, this session explored rising compliance costs, offering practical strategies to reduce administrative burden, improve efficiency and navigate complex regulations.
Ely Networking with KPMG
Insights from KPMG’s 2026 Private Enterprise Barometer showed strong business confidence: 86% expect growth, over 80% forecast revenue increases, and 70% are pursuing international expansion. Sponsored by Grovemere Property.
Centre for Green Tech Tour
Hosted at Peterborough College, businesses saw green skills training in action. With green jobs growing five times faster than the wider market, strengthening talent pipelines is critical.
Manufacturing Roundtable & Tour (NCTC)
Manufacturers highlighted ongoing skills shortages, recruitment challenges and limited forward visibility. A tour of Stainless Metalcraft showcased apprenticeships in action. Sponsored by RecruitMint.
Cross-county collaboration at Horiba Mira showcased investment, innovation and job creation opportunities, alongside the need for skills development and cyber resilience.
International Women’s Day
Speakers championed inclusive leadership, shared initiatives such as Buses Against Abuse with Stagecoach and Pledge United with Cambridge United Foundation, whilst also celebrating Women in Construction Week.
Stamford Networking
The first Stamford event of 2026 brought updates from the Chamber and NSPCC, highlighting the importance of collaboration and businessled community support.
Ely Networking – Regional Skills & Community
Discussions from Patron, Eastern Education Group, focused on skills gaps and Further Education ‘cold spots’. Soham Town Rangers also shared plans to host the Knife Angel, promoting youth safety and awareness. Sponsored by Grovemere Property.
Cambridge Networking Evening
Leaders across business and tech explored how innovation drives growth, emphasising the need for clear strategy, strong data and effective processes to unlock AI’s full potential.
Business Dinner
At our annual dinner, Kevin Byrne, Former Founder of Checkatrade, shared lessons on scaling a business to £2.7bn impact, highlighting resilience, vision and customer trust.
Events are being announced and uploaded regularly, click here to head to our website!
New Members
Advanevo Limited
Cambridge 02087 980 320 contact@advanevo.com
PJH Law Solicitors LLP
18a Maiden Lane, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2AZ 01780 757589
Chameleon Studios Limited
1 Coles Lane, Oakington Cambridge, CB24 3BA 01223 232192
30 High Street, Newmarket, CB8 8LB 01638 491074 reception@medhub.org.uk
Optima Self Store Peterborough
Alpha Park, Mallard Road, Peterborough, PE3 8AF 07725 027623 info@optimaselfstore.co.uk
Connect Membership
“The Connect package has helped us build valuable relationships across the local business community and has increased our visibility in Cambridgeshire. The Chamber’s events, networking opportunities, and ongoing support have made a real difference to our growth and confidence as a business. It’s not just about networking; it’s about being part of a local business family that celebrates and supports each other’s success.”
– DragonHeart Homes
Quest Employment
19 Cowgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LZ 01733 555405
peterborough@questemployment.co.uk
Mattioli Woods
1 New Walk Place, Willie Snaith Road, Leicester, LE1 6RU 0116 240 8700 hello@mattioliwoods.com
Winter brings a natural pause for reflection. Shorter days and busier workloads can put added pressure on business owners and employees alike, making wellbeing not just a personal concern, but a strategic one. For organisations looking to build resilient, productive teams, investing in wellbeing is no longer a ‘nice to have’ – it’s essential.
At the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, we believe that strong businesses are built on healthy foundations. That’s why membership is designed to support wellbeing in its broadest sense – from physical and mental health, to financial confidence, operational security and peace of mind. When businesses feel supported, they perform better. When people feel valued, they stay engaged.
One of the most direct ways Chamber members can invest in employee wellbeing is through access to affordable healthcare and health support. Exclusively available to members, the Chamber Primary Health Plan from Westfield Health starts from just £7.41 per employee per month. It allows staff to claim money back on everyday health costs such as dental care, eye tests, glasses and therapy, while also providing access to GP services, counselling, expert medical opinions, gym discounts and retail rewards. Small interventions like these can have a powerful impact on morale, attendance and overall wellbeing.
We are also pleased to partner with AXA Health for their business healthcare cover.
At AXA Health, we know that your people are your greatest asset. Offering healthcare cover shows your employees that you really value what they do for you. That you’re ready to invest in their health and wellbeing – and in getting them back on their feet again if they become unwell.
Healthcare cover can help to provide you with peace of mind that your team’s health and wellbeing is being looked after, so you can focus on your business.
Wellbeing doesn’t stop at healthcare. Financial uncertainty, operational disruption and cyber threats all take a toll on business owners and teams. Chamber members benefit from access to trusted partners who help reduce stress and create stability –from Moneycorp’s foreign exchange expertise and Swoop’s Chamber Finance Finder to specialist HR, legal, tax and health & safety advice through Quest’s four essential services.
Digital wellbeing is also increasingly important. Reliable IT systems, secure data and efficient workflows enable teams to work confidently and collaboratively. Through exclusive member discounts with Cambridge Support, Cambridge Cyber Security and Kinabase – valued Patron members
“One of the most direct ways Chamber members can invest in employee wellbeing is through access to affordable healthcare and health support.”
– businesses can strengthen their infrastructure, protect against risk and unlock productivity – all contributing to a healthier working environment.
Even practical benefits like AA Roadside Assistance and DHL international shipping discounts play a role, reducing disruption, saving costs and freeing up time and resources to reinvest where it matters most – in people.
Chamber membership is more than a badge. It’s a cost-effective support system that promotes, protects and expands your business while putting wellbeing at its core. Investing in wellbeing isn’t just about looking after your team – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient future for your business and our wider business community.
Connected
Connect your business
Connect with like-minded professionals and businesses, from promoting your organisation in the next edition of our official Chamber magazine, connected, to sharing your news and stories through our weekly newsletters and social media channels.
By featuring your business in our connected magazine, you’ll reach thousands of local businesses every quarter. The magazine is available online, with links included across all our digital communications, and is distributed at every Chamber event - over 100 events annually. It’s an excellent way to increase your visibility and make an impact within the local business community.
Within connected, you can showcase a wide range of content - from advertorials and “Ask the Expert” features, to interviews, case studies, spotlights, event highlights, and thought leadership pieces. You can be as creative as you like!
For businesses looking to broaden their horizons, the Chamber can also help you connect globally. Whether exploring new markets or expanding existing operations, we connect you with key contacts, resources, and opportunities across global markets to help your business trade successfully and thrive internationally.
To place an advert or article, or to find out more about Chamber opportunities please email marketing@cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk
Grow your knowledge and build connections at the Chamber, through a variety of our events and marketing opportunities.
Secure Your 2026 Corporate Sponsorship
As Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce celebrates 100 years of impact in Peterborough, we invite corporate partners to align their brand with the region’s most influential business network. With 100+ events annually and access to senior decisionmakers across multiple sectors, Chamber event sponsorship positions your organisation as a trusted leader in the local economy. Packages start from £500, with bespoke corporate partnerships available for multi-event and year-long visibility.
