Chair’s Report

Through a new Government Energy Bill Relief Scheme, the Government will provide a discount on wholesale gas and electricity prices for all non-domestic customers (including all UK businesses, the voluntary sector and the public sector such as schools and hospitals) whose current gas and electricity prices have been significantly inflated in light of global energy prices. This support will be equivalent to the Energy Price Guarantee put in place for households. Excellent news, and I’m hoping there is potential to extend the scheme beyond the six months, ending March 2023, following a planned review three months into the scheme. Personally, I’ve taken some time out over the last few weeks to get my work–life balance in order, so don’t have a lot of Chamber news to report. The Chamber, of course, continues to deliver numerous events right through the winter months. One notable event was our Board meeting on the 27 September where Ben Mannion, Hewett Recruitment, handed over the Presidency of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce to Mark Smith, Lloyds Bank. Ben has been a Board member for six years, with the last two as President. Many thanks to Ben for his input and support for our local Chamber - he continues to be a Patron Member, so we’ll be seeing him at many Chamber events. A full list of upcoming events can be found on the Chamber website, including the Food and Drink Forum, sponsored by Worcestershire County Council and mfg Solicitors. Find a full list of events here:

Until next time, Mike.