Colin Marr

2025: A Year of Progress, Stability and Strong Foundations

By Marc Wilson, Board President of Inverness Chamber of Commerce Supporting our members to connect, grow and be heard has been at the heart of everything we’ve achieved in 2025. It has been a year of strong delivery for Inverness Chamber of Commerce, with increased membership, a thriving events programme and expanded international activity – […]

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Highlands must not continue to be overlooked in Scotland’s clean energy future, warns Inverness Chamber

Inverness and the Central Highlands must receive sustained investment from the next Scottish Government or Scotland risks missing a major opportunity to strengthen energy security, create jobs and deliver long-term economic growth. The call comes as Inverness Chamber today launches its Manifesto for the Scottish Parliament Election 2026, setting out a clear blueprint for unlocking

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New Diplomatic Advisory Hub Offers Crucial Insight for Businesses Amid Middle East Tensions

Businesses across the UK have received timely geopolitical insight this week following the first emergency briefing delivered through the newly launched Diplomatic Advisory Hub, a joint initiative between the British Chambers of Commerce and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. The online session, attended by hundreds of businesses, explored the potential implications of the escalating

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Inverness Station Quarter – Chamber Backs Once-In-A-Generation Opportunity To Rebuild The City’s Front Door

The Inverness Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses and residents to engage with the new Inverness Interchange Feasibility Study – a major step towards creating an integrated transport hub and revitalised Station Quarter that connects bus, coach, rail, active travel and modern parking in a single, joined-up civic quarter. Commissioned by The Highland Council in

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Comment: Business Rates Reform is Now a Matter of Urgency

By Colin Marr, Chief Executive, Inverness Chamber of Commerce – published in the February 2026 edition of Executive Magazine, page 48. Many Highland-based businesses are due to see significant rises in their rates bill from April 2026. An increasing number of businesses have been in touch with Inverness Chamber of Commerce about the planned increase

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A96 dualling - road signs pointing towards Aberdeen and Inverness

Comment: Dualling the A96 – How Much Can We Really Rely On The Latest Scottish Government Announcement?

By Colin Marr, Chief Executive, Inverness Chamber of Commerce Earlier this week, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop announced provisional dates for work on the A96 dualling. She said construction “could” start on the Inshes to Smithton A9/A96 link in 2028/29, and on the Nairn Bypass in 2029/30. Any progress is welcome, but it’s important to put

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Driving Year-Round Tourism: VisitScotland CEO Shares Insights with Highland Business Leaders

A stronger, more sustainable visitor economy was the focus for local business leaders last week as Inverness Chamber of Commerce hosted Vicki Miller, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, for two key events at Ness Walk Hotel – an Industry Roundtable Dinner on Wednesday 29 October, followed by a Business Breakfast on Thursday 30 October. The roundtable

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Get Ready to Network, Learn and Celebrate – Be Part of Highland Business Week 2025

The most anticipated week in the Highland business calendar is returning this September – and it’s one you won’t want to miss. Delivered by Inverness Chamber of Commerce, Highland Business Week 2025 will take place from Monday 22 to Friday 26 September, offering a dynamic programme of events that bring the region’s business community together

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Chamber CEO Presents to Royal Bank of Scotland’s Scotland Board During Inverness Visit

Inverness Chamber of Commerce was delighted to take part in Royal Bank of Scotland’s ‘Scotland Board on the Road’ visit to the Highlands this week. Chamber Chief Executive Colin Marr had the opportunity to present directly to the Scotland Board, offering a comprehensive overview of the region’s economic landscape, business environment, and future opportunities. During

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Business Breakfast with HIAL Highlights Opportunities for Growth and Connectivity

Inverness Chamber of Commerce members enjoyed an insightful Business Breakfast this week with guest speakers Paul Kelsall, Chief Executive of Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (HIAL), and Graeme Bell, General Manager of Inverness Airport. Held at the Kingsmills Hotel, the event attracted over 50 delegates and offered a unique opportunity to hear directly from the

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Connecting Supporting Representing