Business confidence remains fragile in wake of Budget says Black Country Chamber of Commerce
26 Nov 2025
Published in: Black Country Chamber of Commerce News
The Black Country Chamber of Commerce today welcomed a £900million boost for the Midlands in today’s Budget, but warned business confidence in the region remained fragile.
Chief executive Sarah Moorhouse gave a mixed reaction to the Chancellor's hugely-anticipated speech.
“There was some genuinely good news for the West Midlands. The new Local Growth Fund, worth £902 million over four years for mayoral regions including ours, shows the government recognises the potential of our area.
“The Black Country Chamber of Commerce stands ready to work with national government and the West Midlands Mayoral Combined Authority to support businesses make the most of the regional opportunities.
“We work day in, day out, to stand up for our business community, which is rooted in both innovation and determination. When our region flourishes, the impact is national.
"However, we recognise that the concerns our members raised pre-Budget about the rising costs of doing business still remain following today’s announcements. Our survey showed many companies had adopted a wait and see approach to investment, fearing that new measures would erode margins and dampen growth.
"The salary sacrifice scheme changes, for example, will certainly increase costs for employers. By reducing the limit to £2,000 a year before National Insurance becomes payable, the Chancellor is penalising people saving for their future and simultaneously heaping more costs on business.
"The increase in the minimum wage is another added cost to employers at a time when there is little growth in the economy to pay for it.
"However, we do welcome the launch of the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, which will help cut electricity costs for more than 7,000 manufacturers at a time when soaring energy bills are hampering our ability to trade on the world stage.
"The permanently lower business rates for retail, hospitality and leisure properties will provide much-needed relief to our high streets but for many of our SME members and larger employers, this Budget will see the cost of doing business go up again after last year’s NIC increases.
The Black Country Chamber of Commerce represents more than 750 businesses in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley and Sandwell and plays a key role in lobbying Government and policy makers on their behalf.
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