Why does the Chamber of Commerce exist?
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) sits at the heart of a business network that spans the length and breadth of the UK, with links to markets across the world. There are now 53 Chamber in the UK.
Chambers of Commerce provide a voice to the business communities they represent, amplifying their priorities and concerns. In every region and nation of the UK, Chambers and their members work to improve the local business environment in which they operate.
The Chamber of Commerce network exists to support and connect companies, bringing together firms to build new relationships, share best practice and foster new opportunities. Through practical on the ground support they also help firms trade locally, nationally and globally, including specific support for international trade.
What is the history behind the Chamber of Commerce?
The long history of the Chamber movement can be traced back to 1599, when the term ‘Chamber of Commerce’ appeared for the first time, in Marseille, France.
Moving beyond individual interests to that of a collective group, the establishment of Chambers provided merchants, traders, craftsmen and industrialists a public forum to discuss issues facing them as a business community. This representation of common interests became, and remains, the foundation of chambers of commerce worldwide.
Gaining acceptance from public authorities also helped the Chamber cause. Public authorities rapidly established close dialogue with chambers, seeing them as the legitimate and institutionalised common voice of business.
The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1916. Today, Chambers of Commerce exist in almost every country of the world.
Who owns and runs the Chamber of Commerce?
The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce is owned, directed and lead by its private sector members. The Board of Directors is responsible for developing and implementing the Chambers strategy, and programme of action and for overseeing the financial affairs of the organisation. The Chambers Council of Members are the determining authority on policy affairs.
We have a clear governance framework which includes:
- A memorandum of Association
- Articles of Association
- Bye-Laws
Our ongoing compliance with the requirements set out in our governance framework are reviewed by the British Chambers of Commerce as part of our accreditation process.
The North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce is a company limited by guarantee and not having share capital under the 1985 Companies Act.
How big is the Chambers’ international operations?
Huge. The International Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organisation, representing more than 45 million companies in over 100 countries. Its core mission is to make business work for everyone, every day, everywhere.
The Council of British Chambers of Commerce in Europe is the membership organisation for British Chambers of Commerce and business associations in Europe. With members in most countries across the region, its represent a unique network of around 12,000 businesses, the only pan-European British business network.
And there is EUROCHAMBRES. EUROCHAMBRES represents over 20 million businesses in Europe through 46 members (42 national associations of chambers of commerce and Industry and two transnational chamber organisations) and a European network of 1,700 regional and local chambers. More than 93 percent of these businesses are small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). Chambers’ member businesses employ over 120 million.
How can the Chamber help develop my network of contacts?
Our events programme offers members and non-members a variety of business networking, business development and corporate hospitality opportunities. Our aim for all our events is to create an ideal forum for trading, and to help you make new and valuable business connections.
Or if you’re looking for a contact within a specific industry simply give us a call.
How can the Chamber help me promote my business?
Members can promote their business to fellow members through our searchable online directory. To reach a wider audience, a variety of promotional and sponsorship opportunities include sponsorship of one of our events.
Our Member Relationship team offers help and guidance to ensure members take full advantage of all the services on offer. You can contact the team on 01772 653000 or email membership@lancschamber.co.uk.
Who does the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce represent?
All businesses operating in Lancashire, Wyre, Fylde, Blackpool, Preston, South Ribble, Chorley and West Lancashire. We represent the interests of our member companies across London and the surrounding regions, from all sectors of industry and all sizes of organisation.
Who does the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce influence?
As Lancashire’s largest independent business voice, we campaign on behalf of our members’ commercial interests on a local, national and international basis by identifying and influencing key policy and decision makers.
How do I find out about your activities?
You can keep up to date by visiting www.lancschamber.co.uk and by viewing our regular e-newsletter communications or by reading our monthly newspaper, Business Lancashire as well as our quarterly magazine The Voice. You can also keep up-to-date with us through Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.
Does my company have to be a member to attend your events?
Many of our events are open to non-members. This gives companies a feel for the type of event they could benefit from by joining North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce. However, many events are offered free, or at significantly discounted rates, to members only.
Is membership value for money?
Membership of the Chamber is corporate, so all the employees in your business can use our extensive range of business services, which are significantly discounted, exclusive or free for members. If you’re prepared to invest the time, it is great value.
