The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is a national representative body for chambers of commerce in the United Kingdom. The BCC was established in 1860 and has since become a leading business advocacy organization in the country. The organization's primary goal is to promote and support the interests of British businesses, both domestically and internationally.
History and Structure
The British Chambers of Commerce has a long and rich history, dating back to the mid-19th century. The organization was founded by a group of business leaders who recognized the need for a unified voice to represent the interests of British commerce. Today, the BCC is a federation of 53 accredited chambers of commerce across the UK, representing over 100,000 businesses of all sizes and sectors.
Governance and Leadership
The BCC is governed by a council of directors, which includes representatives from each of the accredited chambers of commerce. The organization is led by a director general, who is responsible for implementing the BCC’s strategic vision and advocating for the interests of British businesses. The current director general of the BCC is Shevaun Haviland, who has been in the role since 2021.
| Year | Director General |
|---|---|
| 2021-present | Shevaun Haviland |
| 2017-2021 | Adam Marshall |
| 2014-2017 | John Longworth |
Policy and Advocacy
The British Chambers of Commerce is a leading voice on business policy issues in the UK. The organization works closely with government ministers, parliamentarians, and other stakeholders to promote the interests of British businesses. The BCC’s policy priorities include brexit and trade, infrastructure and transport, and skills and education.
Research and Publications
The BCC publishes a range of research reports and briefings on key business policy issues. The organization’s quarterly economic survey is a leading indicator of UK economic trends and is closely watched by policymakers and business leaders. The BCC also produces a range of guides and toolkits to help businesses navigate complex policy issues and regulatory requirements.
- Quarterly Economic Survey: a comprehensive survey of UK business trends and sentiment
- Brexit and Trade Guide: a practical guide for businesses navigating the UK's exit from the EU
- Infrastructure and Transport Report: a detailed analysis of the UK's infrastructure and transport needs
What is the British Chambers of Commerce?
+The British Chambers of Commerce is a national representative body for chambers of commerce in the United Kingdom. The organization promotes and supports the interests of British businesses, both domestically and internationally.
What are the BCC’s policy priorities?
+The BCC’s policy priorities include brexit and trade, infrastructure and transport, and skills and education. The organization works closely with government ministers, parliamentarians, and other stakeholders to promote the interests of British businesses.
What research and publications does the BCC produce?
+The BCC publishes a range of research reports and briefings on key business policy issues. The organization’s quarterly economic survey is a leading indicator of UK economic trends and is closely watched by policymakers and business leaders.
