Business NH Magazine’s Post

We have just received the following report in today. Does this match up with your experience? NEWS RELEASE Some optimism has returned to the German-British business community, but challenges remain According to the recent Spring Survey of the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce, the German-British Business community has become more optimistic in comparison to six months ago, not only in terms of the outlook for their own activities in the UK, but also for the development of the UK economy overall. As a result of the increase in confidence, more than 40% of respondents will invest more in the medium term and a similar number expect to employ more staff. The main reason for investing in the UK continues to be the importance of the British market with 70% planning to invest in sales and marketing activities. However, the UK’s appeal as a manufacturing location should not be underestimated, as approximately 15% of respondents plan to increase investment in production and manufacturing activities - a higher share than the manufacturing sector’s overall contribution to the UK economy (10%). Political uncertainty and the lack of demand (despite the somewhat improving economy) continue to feature most prominently as challenges for our businesses. These are followed by trade barriers, shortage of skills, and regulatory uncertainty. In comparison to our survey results in 2023, energy costs are having a smaller impact on business operations, moving from most (in spring 2023) to third most influential factor (in autumn 2023) and now settling in twelfth position. With regard to long term geopolitical challenges, political “interference” in supply chain structures, the drive to sustainability and the digital transformation is what keeps companies awake at night. However, overall they feel relatively well prepared to face these challenges. In terms of the efficacy of the UK government’s policies to address climate change, our respondents’ views suggest that UK policy has not become more effective over the last two years. Dr Ulrich Hoppe, Director General of the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce, commented, "The survey results suggest that a bit more optimism has returned to the German-British business community, but challenges remain.” 64 online interviews were conducted with members of the German-British business community with UK operations. The study was part of the World Business Outlook and conducted in conjunction with the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK). Fieldwork was conducted between 4 and 21 April 2024. The full results can be found at: https://lnkd.in/dXxifi3 – ends – Press contact: Silke Schöling, Press & PR German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce, 16 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6LB Tel: 020 7976 4113       Fax: 020 7976 4101      Email: press@ahk-london.co.uk

Local businesses beware! Vanity award schemes are on the rise, promising prestige without merit. Learn how to spot and avoid these traps in our latest blog post. #BusinessAlert #StayInformed Read more here: https://ow.ly/nII450SKq8w

A useful read here for membership organisations - 5 key points to ensure a bright future.

ICYMI - The Massachusetts Business Roundtable released its 4th Annual Talent and Competitiveness Survey last month, in collaboration with McKinsey & Company The survey found that Massachusetts continues to be a hub for education and technological innovation. However, macroeconomic headwinds outweigh tailwinds as factors influencing where employers are growing their workforce and footprint. The rising cost of living, led by the cost of housing, is the dominant factor influencing organizations’ decisions to remain in Massachusetts. This is impacting hiring, as it is becoming increasingly difficult to recruit talent to Massachusetts and more employers are planning to grow their presence outside of the state. The survey also includes solutions to address the state’s challenges and positively impact its position as a global leader, including focusing on housing production, workforce development partnership, and incorporating artificial intelligence. As we highlight in the CommonWealth Beacon op-ed below, "Now is the time to bet on Massachusetts." Check out media coverage: Boston Globe: https://lnkd.in/ep3u3fMv Boston Business Journal: https://lnkd.in/esuZJJFm CommonWealth Beacon: https://lnkd.in/ewVjwGDQ Boston Business Journal Greg Ryan Boston Globe Media Jon Chesto CommonWealth Beacon CommonWealth Beacon Michael Jonas bruce mohl Lucy Perez Alec Wescott

In the Lead – Best Women-Owned Businesses If there’s one thing that Idaho Business Review has become adept at, it’s highlighting women-owned businesses https://lnkd.in/gKsWDRs5

🚨 Addressing Massachusetts’ Housing Crisis: A Call to Action for Business Leaders and Startups 🚨 Massachusetts has long been celebrated for its world-class education, technological innovation, and vibrant business community. However, the 2024 Massachusetts Talent and Competitiveness Survey from the MA Business Roudntable reveals a growing concern that threatens that competitive edge: the soaring cost of living, with housing at the forefront. 🔑 Key Insights from the Survey: • Housing Costs: An overwhelming 83% of companies cite the cost of living, particularly housing, as critical to their decision to remain in Massachusetts. This is a 2.5x increase since 2022. • Recruitment Challenges: Over 50% of organizations report that candidates are unwilling to move to Massachusetts due to high housing costs, making talent acquisition increasingly difficult. • Economic Impact: 73% of respondents rate economic risks, magnified by housing costs, as their top worry impacting business operations. I believe that investing in housing production is paramount to maintaining Massachusetts’ status as a hub for talent and innovation. 91% of respondents agree that such investments will significantly boost our state’s competitiveness. 🏡 Our Call to Action: 1. Accelerate Housing Initiatives: The Senate just approved the Housing Bond Bill, which will streamline permitting processes, and make investments in housing innovation, access and affordability initiatives. 2. Collaborate with Government: Advocate for state-level policies promoting housing supply and incentivize businesses and investors to invest in local housing projects. 3. Innovate and Invest: Embrace innovative solutions and encourage support and investment in the housing ecosystem. Massachusetts has the potential to lead by example, demonstrating how a robust housing strategy can sustain economic growth and attract top talent. #HousingCrisis #Massachusetts #TalentRetention #Innovation #BusinessLeadership #ADU #ModularConstruction

I'm looking forward to attending the #PRIinPerson conference next week in my own backyard of Toronto! For investors or colleagues interested in discussions on promoting respect for workers’ rights in investment stewardship, here's my list of can't miss events in the city next week: 1) ❇ The CWC's 2024 Annual Conference❇ from October 7-8 will connect over 100 trustees and trade unions colleagues from around the world to discuss the responsible investment of workers' capital. This year’s keynote speaker John Coates, author of "The Problem of Twelve: When a Few Financial Institutions Control Everything", is primed to spur discussions on how collective action can shift the financial landscape, ensuring that workers' rights are prioritized in the face of concentrated power. 2) ❇ The Labour Rights Investor Network's (LRIN) side event at the PRI on Supporting Investor Stewardship on Trade Union Rights ❇ is taking place on Wednesday October 9th at 8am. With case studies on Tesla and Starbucks, and insights from experts like John Adler, Kiran Aziz, Delaney Greig, and Aleksandar Zuza, the event promises to offer practical guidance for engaging companies on labour rights risks. Breakfast will be provided - you can register to attend here: https://lnkd.in/guf2yUwK 3) ❇ The PRI's break-out session on Two Years of 'Advance': Lessons Learnt on Using Stewardship to Tackle Human Rights Issues ❇ will underscore the critical role of engaging with affected stakeholders, like workers and trade unions, to support investors' understanding of companies' human rights impact. After working on the initiative's technical advisory committee since its inception, I'm thrilled to moderate the panel with my dear colleagues, Liz Umlas, Igor Kareld Díaz López, Mary Beth Gallagher, Wilhelm H Mohn and Nabylah Abo dehman. What excites me most is the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded peers. If you’re attending any of these events, I’d love to connect. There’s so much to learn and share. #PRIinPerson #ESG #ResponsibleInvestment #LabourRights #InvestorStewardship #TradeUnionRights #SustainableFinance

Survey finds only one in 10 executives thinks the party understand what is required to help make companies more successful

Check out our article in the new look glossy magazine Business Times 👀 🏆 Find out how awards can enhance your credibility and the benefits of entering...👇 Read the full article ➡ https://lnkd.in/e4Ue8WRF #PRAgency #BusinessTimesMagazine #NorthamptonshireBusiness

Stay ahead in the ever-evolving business landscape with our monthly e-newsletter - "In The Know". Every month, we deliver the latest insights, industry news, and strategies to help Tasmanian businesses thrive. Quartz Consulting is here to support your journey to success. p: 1300 936 223             e: info@quartzconsulting.com.au #TasmaniaBusiness #InTheKnow #QuartzConsulting #BusinessGrowth #Newsletter