Results of Chambers Wales’ Q1 Quarterly Economic Survey announced

Heather Anstey-Myers, Chief Executive of Chambers Wales

Announcing the results of Chambers Wales’ Q1 Quarterly Economic Survey, Heather Anstey-Myers, Chief Executive of Chambers Wales, said:

“The Quarterly Economic Survey is a litmus test of the mood and issues facing businesses and it is heartening that the findings today show that Welsh businesses are optimistic about the future, despite a difficult and challenging start to the year.

“With the country slowly reopening for business and the successful vaccination rollout ongoing, business confidence is growing, and more than half of Welsh businesses expect their revenue to increase over the next year. While the combined impact of the pandemic and end of the Brexit transition period is still being felt, continued government funding remains a vital support.

“Internally, businesses are looking to upskilling to overcome difficulties in sourcing suitable staff, especially for skilled roles. Almost two thirds of businesses have cited a lack of skilled and trained professionals available as barriers to recruitment; reflecting similar results of an in-event poll we held during an upskilling and reskilling debate earlier this year. As businesses repeatedly tell us, there is a real need for action in this area to enable firms to grow and thrive.

“As an accredited British Chamber of Commerce, Chambers Wales are helping to bridge this training gap with industry recognised qualifications to support members and boost business confidence when trading, as well as facilitating the link between businesses and educational institutions to provide access to upskilling opportunities.”