This week's in my view comes from... Peter Smith, President of Bracknell Chamber Council

After seven years as President of Bracknell Chamber Council I’ve made the decision to step down. The role is an honorary one and I have thoroughly enjoyed playing my part in supporting the local business community.

For some time now the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce has been reviewing its offerings to the business community and considering how to provide the best possible support that includes costs savings, networking, international trade services and more recently the Business Awards.

Coming into effect from the 1st January, companies will now have the choice of a membership package that is right for their business depending on their goals and needs, not on number of employees, which has been the approach historically. The established Global and Business Alliance tiers will remain unchanged but will be bolstered by new products and services.

Paul Britton, CEO at the Thames Valley Chamber commented:

“Our new approach means we will be adding greater value to our membership, building on our success as the leading voice for business in the region, and growing the number of companies trading internationally by equipping them with the knowledge, connections and confidence to do so.

“The transition between the old and new tiers will be fully revitalised with exciting new identities - namely Connect, Discover, Inspire, and Lead. Each will have a comprehensive range of benefits added to their individual portfolio with flexibility key to our new approach.

“Across the whole of the UK, the Chamber network is growing, and continues to play a vital role in business support, providing the best possible platform for companies of all sizes to work together for the mutual benefit of local, regional and global interests.

“At the heart of our work is our mantra “Local Engagement, Regional Representation and Global Opportunity”. Each new tier can be further enhanced with our global membership, which provides bespoke solutions and services through our International Trade Services experts, to help aspiring and established business grow on a global stage.

“We will be working with our members to continuously improve our offering throughout 2020 and beyond.”

It just remains for me to wish you all a very happy festive season and to have a very rewarding and enjoyable 2020