Chambers East backs BCC’s call for action to reduce the cost of doing business

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is calling on the Chancellor to use the Autumn Budget 2026 to reduce the cost of doing business and restore confidence in investment, recruitment and growth.

At Chambers East, we recognise the growing pressures facing businesses, from employer National Insurance and the National Living Wage to business rates and rising compliance costs. BCC research shows that a typical mid-sized business with 50 employees and a £5 million turnover now faces around £1.98 million a year in domestic policy-driven costs — an increase of £827,000 since 2016.

Reducing these pressures is essential to helping businesses across our region invest, create jobs and drive sustainable economic growth.

We support the BCC’s call for action and encourage businesses to explore its proposals for a more competitive and supportive business environment.

Read more about the BCC’s proposals and campaign to lower the cost of doing business:
https://www.britishchambers.org.uk/budget/