As the strong voice of Highland business, one of our key roles is to lobby effectively on matters that are important to our members and businesses across the Highlands & Islands. As a truly independent organisation, we are uniquely placed to comment swiftly with insight and authority.
Our Chief Executive leads this activity for us, actively engaging with all forms of media and politicians from across the political spectrum. Working closely with other Chambers of Commerce across the region, policy colleagues from Scottish Chambers of Commerce and British Chambers of Commerce means that we can press the case for business locally, within Scotland and at a UK level. Our numerous and regular business articles give a further opportunity for our business voice to be heard.
We make sure your voice is heard on what matters most to your business. Our Executive Partners particularly benefit from our close support and input in this area.
Quarterly Economic Indicator (QEI)
The QEI is Scotland’s longest-running business survey of its kind, run by Scottish Chambers of Commerce in partnership with the esteemed Fraser of Allander Institute. It plays an essential role in setting the business agenda and informing the most senior levels of government and policy making of the needs of local Chambers and their members.
The short survey enables Scottish businesses to share their views on current trading conditions and highlight ongoing challenges and opportunities in the Scottish economy.
In turn, these inform your local and national Chamber of Commerce’s representations, to both your local and nationally elected representatives and Scottish and UK Government Officials, from the First Minister to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, allowing us to campaign and influence effectively on the issues that matter to your business and our community.
The latest survey (Quarter 3 2024) received widespread coverage in the national media, indicating widespread fears over increased taxes and uncertainty over the impact of the Autumn Budget are hitting Scotland’s businesses, while pressures on cashflow and profit margins are limiting and squeezing growth.