QES

Confidence among firms remained fragile at the start of 2026, despite some small shoots of recovery, according to the UK’s largest business sentiment survey. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey also shows labour costs continued to be the biggest cost concern for

Confidence among firms has continued to weaken, with tax remaining the biggest concern, according to the UK’s largest business sentiment survey. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey also found more businesses now expect to raise prices in 2026. Less than half of

The latest British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) economic forecast suggests last month’s Budget is unlikely to kickstart the UK economy. The first forecast by a major business organisation since the Chancellor’s statement shows the UK’s growth outlook will remain subdued. The key points:    •

The UK’s largest business sentiment survey before next month’s Budget, shows most firms remain bruised, with no improvement to business sentiment. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Survey for Q3 has found confidence and investment levels remain at 2022 levels. Less than half

Fewer than one fifth (18%) of micro-exporters (fewer than 10 employees) increased export orders in Q2, with 29% reporting a decrease. By comparison, 29% of large exporters (more than 250 staff) increased their export orders with a fifth (20%) reporting a drop. More than a

Business confidence remains weak following the employer NI rise, with just under half of firms (49%) expecting turnover to increase in the next 12 months The proportion of businesses expecting to put up prices over the next three months eases to 44% (from a spike

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Quarterly Economic Forecast (QEF) has increased growth predictions for 2025, but the UK economy will remain sluggish. Better-than-expected business investment in Q1 is forecast to boost GDP across 2025. Inflation is projected to increase further in the coming months,

59% of businesses say tax, including national insurance, is now a concern, the second highest level on record following a peak in the previous quarter Business confidence remains subdued, with less than half of firms (48%) expecting turnover to increase in the next 12 months

63% of businesses say tax, including national insurance, is now a concern, following the Chancellor’s Budget – the highest level since 2017 Business confidence has slipped to its lowest level since the aftermath of the mini-Budget in Autumn 2022 A majority of firms (55%) now