BUSINESS REPORT


EXPORTERS MAKING MOST OF WEAK POUND


Milton Keynes firms are seeing increased growth in overseas markets, according to the latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) by Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce. The business barometer, released on 12 April 2018, gives an insight on


the performance, concerns and trading experiences of local firms in Q1. A total of 71 per cent of respondents saw


growth in export sales in the first quarter of the year, up significantly from zero in Q4 of 2017, likely to be due to the weak pound making exports more competitive. And in another positive move, almost a quarter of respondents reported an increase in workforce during the time period with a similar number planning to further increase their teams in the coming months. Domestic sales saw a considerable dip,


‘WE NEED GOVERNMENT


TRANSPARENCY, INFORMATION AND POSITIVE ACTION OVER BREXIT’


as did business confidence for the first part of the year, with just 15% of companies expecting an improvement in turnover this year. Milton Keynes Chamber chief executive Paul Griffiths said: “It is


fantastic to see export sales booming and Milton Keynes firms taking great advantage of sterling being weak. The British Chambers of Commerce are forecasting export growth of 3.6% across the UK this year and it seems local firms are beginning to follow that trend. “Now we need government transparency, information and positive


action over Brexit so that we can help advise our members and the wider business community and hopefully improve business confidence.” Milton Keynes Chamber’s QES is part of the largest and most


representative survey of its kind in the UK and provides feedback of the performance, concerns and views of businesses across the area.


To read the full QES report visit: chambermk.co.uk/ representation/quarterly-economic-surveys


BRAND NEW BEGINNING FOR INSURANCE FIRMS


In 2017, Jelf and Bluefin joined forces. Together, the pair are one of the UK’s leading insurance brokers and risk advisers with an enhanced range of services and solutions for clients, delivered locally. Operating as both Jelf and


Bluefin is confusing for clients. Therefore the companies have rebranded their core offering to a single master brand – Jelf. The new Jelf has a new look and


client experience that reflects what is valued from the current Bluefin and Jelf businesses, as well as the


additional capability as a combined business. Jelf’s Heather Coupland said:


“While you will see a new logo and look and feel introduced, there will be no changes to the service that our clients receive. We will maintain our strong focus on meeting the insurance, risk management and employee benefits needs of our commercial clients.”


Visit www.jelf.com to see the new look and feel as well as find out more about what Jelf can now offer.





With over 40 years experience, we have carved out a reputation as one of the country's experts in the design, installation and maintenance of luxury relaxation spaces; from domestic saunas to commercial steam rooms and spa plunge pools.


From conception to completion, our aim is to make every part of your project as stress free as possible. Please get in touch to see what we can do for you.


Grimbald Crag Close St James Business Park, Knaresborough North Yorkshire, HG5 BPJ


T +44(0) 1423 798630 F +44(0) 1423 798670


 JUNE/JULY 2018 inbusiness 7


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