“September was a poor month for UK trade. Goods exports fell to the US, EU and the rest of the world. The impacts of the JLR cyber-attack were clearly felt in a slump in automotive exports to the US, but other export sectors also declined.

“It is also a concern that services exports took a hit too. Across the third quarter of 2025, goods exports saw a small decline. But tariffs continue to have an impact, with an 11% year-on-year drop in the value of goods exports to the US in Q3.

“It is crucial that policy measures accompanying the forthcoming Budget relieve the pressures on traders. This means customs reforms to make goods movements quicker and simpler including a firm commitment to the UK Single Trade Window.

“The government should also look to boost the export capacity of established exporting companies through trade accelerators.”

Goods Exports – September

UK goods exports fell by 5.1% in volume terms when compared with August, with the EU dropping by 2.4%, alongside a 7.6% decline to the rest of the world.

Sales to the US fell by 11.4% month-on-month in value terms, with drops across multiple sectors.  These included a £0.3bn fall in chemicals exports and a £0.1bn decrease in machinery and transport equipment exports, including automotives (affected by the JLR shutdown). UK goods exports to the US are now 20% lower in value terms than they were in September 2024.

Goods Imports – September

The volume of goods imports into the UK also fell in September by 1.6% overall. This was comprised of a 3.8% fall from the EU, set against a 0.7% rise from the rest of the world.

Services – September

UK services exports were 0.7% lower than August, in volume terms. Imports of services into the UK rose by the same percentage.

The picture for Q3

Taking Q3 2025 as a whole and comparing UK goods exports to the US with the same quarter last year, they are now 11% lower in value terms.

Comparing Q3 2025 with Q2 2025, total exports in goods and services declined by 0.2% in value terms, with imports rising by 1%.

Goods exports fell by 0.7% in value terms compared with Q2 2025, while imports rose 1.5%. Services exports and imports increased by 0.2% and 0.1% respectively.

More detail on the ONS data can be found here.

The post September Trade Slump Rounds Off Weak Q3 appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

“With a backdrop of weak business and investment confidence, sluggish Q3 growth of just 0.1% is unsurprising. 

“But the data suggests the cyber-attack on JLR hit manufacturing badly and made a mediocre performance worse. The overall 0.5% contraction in production counteracted growth of 0.2% in services and 0.1% in construction. 

“The lack of strong, consistent growth means this month’s Budget is a make-or-break moment for business – it must deliver for firms across the UK. Our latest survey of over 4,600 businesses shows a quarter have scaled back their investment plans, and a fifth are expecting their turnover to worsen over the next year.  

“That’s why we are clear, there must be no more taxes on business in November’s Budget. The Chancellor must also use her statement to tackle the skills crisis, help firms export and turbocharge infrastructure projects.  

“She faces difficult choices, but hitting businesses in the pocket again would be the wrong move. Recent speculation about a new cap on pension salary sacrifice schemes is worrying, as it would pile more costs on employers and limit investment. 

“The economy will continue to struggle unless business costs are cut and firms are given the right tools to invest, recruit and trade.”

More information on the GDP data for Q3 can be found here.

The post Budget Must Kickstart Sluggish Economy appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The event, on Saturday November 29 welcomes anyone curious about university life. From young people preparing to leave school to adults considering a career change, the Open Day is a chance to find out more about what’s on offer for people interested in full or part-time study.

Professor Sally Moyle, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University said: “Maybe you’ve always dreamed of a career teaching or working with children, or you feel like a career in healthcare might be your calling, if you’re ready for a change in your life, come and find out how Worcester can give you the step up you need.”

The University has highly rated courses with excellent employment prospects across a multitude of areas, from business and computing to psychology and counselling, and from education and teaching to nursing and midwifery.

Graduates from the University of Worcester have the highest rate of sustained employment, further study or both, for any multidisciplinary university in the UK, according to the Government’s Longitudinal Education Outcomes data 2017-2025.

Professor Moyle said: “The Open Day is an opportunity for you to come and explore the campus, meet staff and ask questions. Our Student Finance Advisors and admissions experts will also be on hand to help you understand how the application system works, particularly if you’ve been out of education for a while.”

She added: “The University of Worcester has mature students across all of its courses, and we have a thriving network of people who return to study later on in their lives.”

The Open Day runs from 10am until 3pm on Saturday November 29 across the University’s Campuses.

Registration for the event is now open. Search for ‘Open Days’ on the University of Worcester’s website, or follow this link to book directly.

For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries telephone 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk

The post University of Worcester Open Day to Welcome Career Changers appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

By joining the Chamber of Commerce, our aim is twofold: to gain greater exposure and support as a local independent business, and to contribute our own experience and resources to help strengthen the business community around us.

Managing Director, Ben Panesar says “Hospitality has always been about people making connections and creating memorable experiences. Joining the Chamber allows the Westmead to extend that same philosophy beyond our doors, working together with other local businesses to share knowledge, support one another, and celebrate what makes our community special”.

Our highlights include:
• Hotel Accommodation: Comfortable, modern rooms ideal for leisure or business stays.
• Restaurant & Bar: Seasonal menus showcasing quality local produce, with a welcoming atmosphere for guests and locals.
• Meetings & Events: Versatile conference, wedding, and private function spaces, supported by an experienced events team.
• Location & Parking: Easily accessible, located close to J2 M42 with ample free parking.

We look forward to being an active part of the Chamber network and working together to promote and support the amazing businesses that make our region thrive.

Telephone: 0121 445 1202
Website: www.westmeadhotel.co.uk

The post The Westmead Hotel Joins the Chamber of Commerce — A Proudly Independent, Family-Owned Business Strengthening Local Connections appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

In the foreword to a new BCC digital report, Baroness Martha Lane Fox raises concerns that businesses will continue to face barriers, if the country’s infrastructure and connectivity are not urgently improved. The crossbench peer tells ministers “you can’t build a new house on shaky ground.”  

The report examines whether the UK’s digital connectivity is supporting business growth, and what more needs to be done to harness new technology.  

Among the report recommendations, the BCC is calling for ministers to:   

• Provide a business specific assessment on threats to broadband, mobile connectivity and data centres in the UK – outlining how outages will be minimised.  

• Confirm long-term funding in the Budget to ensure full gigabit coverage for the UK by the government’s updated target of 2032.  

• Take urgent steps to address the persistent geographical disparities in gigabit broadband rollout.  

• Provide an up-to-date assessment on mobile connectivity and outline ways to provide consistent reliable coverage across the UK.  

In the report, Baroness Lane Fox calls out “buffering connections” for businesses, as a “brake on growth”. The BCC President says Government “must be laser-focused” to unlock the economic potential of digital technology “so every community, every business and every citizen can benefit.” 

The report highlights the continuing challenges facing businesses in rural areas. BCC research from 2023, found that only 56% of SMEs agreed that their area had reliable broadband, compared with 82% in urban areas.  

The BCC is calling on the Government to ensure that both broadband and mobile connectivity programmes are funded properly, and delivery targets are met. The organisation is also looking for reassurance that the growing number of data centres in the UK are built in a sustainable and resilient way, to support business growth.  

Baroness Martha Lane Fox, President of the British Chambers of Commerce said:  

“The digital revolution is reshaping the UK economy and presenting huge opportunities to businesses of all shapes and sizes.  

“But without reliable connectivity in every part of the country, economic growth will be held back. Businesses need a digital infrastructure they can rely on, now and in the future. Firms will struggle to fully harness the opportunities of AI if their broadband is patchy. We need to get the basics right.  

“The Budget later this month is an opportunity for the Chancellor to confirm long-term funding arrangements for gigabit rollout.  

“Connectivity is the foundation of a thriving digital economy – it’s time to finish the job.” 

The post Fix Digital Foundations to Unlock Growth appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Hereford FC is delighted to announce that a deal has been agreed that will see Westons Cider extend their sponsorship of the club for another five years.

Westons have been a key sponsor of the club since 2015, with signage on the Len Weston Stand and the Meadow End, having previously been a long-standing supporters of Hereford United for many decades prior to that.

The extended sponsorship deal will see Westons continue to supply cider around Edgar Street, as well as supporting the club with giveaways to volunteers and in the Hereford Suite for hospitality guests on matchdays.

In addition, the new deal has seen Westons invest in a significant makeover of Radford’s Bar, with new signage outside and redecoration being undertaken inside which sees Stowford Press branding to the fore.

Speaking about this deal, Hereford FC’s Commercial Director, George Webb, commented:

“We are absolutely delighted with this deal and on behalf of everyone at the club I’d like to thank Westons for their generous, ongoing support.

“Westons continue to be a huge Herefordshire success story and our partnership with them has been of great benefit to our club in a huge number of ways. We are looking forward to developing that partnership still further and we are already talking about freshening up the signage that they have in various other parts of the ground.

“As with all our sponsors, the support we receive from Westons is absolutely vital as we continue to look to drive Hereford FC forward on and off the field, which is why extending this deal for the next five years is fantastic news for the club because of the long-term commitment it provides.”

Gemma Evans, Brand Manager at Westons, said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to continue our partnership with Hereford FC for another five years. Our connection with the club runs deep – built on shared values, local pride, and a love for great cider and great football.

“Seeing the new Stowford Press branding at Radford’s Bar is a real celebration of that bond — the perfect pint poured right here at Edgar Street.”

The post Westons Cider Extend Bulls Partnership For Five More Years appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The event is a fantastic opportunity to discover how MBH’s Conductive Education sessions are transforming lives. Conductive Education is a holistic approach designed to help both children and adults with conditions such as DCD (Dyspraxia), Cerebral Palsy, Stroke, Parkinson’s, or Multiple Sclerosis to build independence, confidence, and joy through movement and connection.

Visitors can meet the expert team, learn about subsidised programmes, and even book a free assessment — which includes three no-obligation sessions. Families, carers, and anyone interested in discovering more about Conductive Education are warmly encouraged to attend.

“Unleash Your Spark with Megan Baker House” is more than just a motto — it’s a promise to help individuals move, laugh, and soar together.

For more information or to book your free assessment, call 01531 633840 or email Sue@meganbakerhouse.org.uk.

The post Megan Baker House Invites You to an Inspiring Open Day in Bromsgrove! appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The event is being held as part of the Our Shared Futures: Climate & Migration Community Film Festival, organised by City of Sanctuary UK in partnership with Counterpoints Arts, Earth Refuge, Climate & Migrant Justice Organising Group.

The Festival, taking place across the UK from November 21-30, coincides with COP30 in Brazil and Climate & Migrant Justice Day on November 22.

The Worcester event takes place on Wednesday, November 26 from 7pm to 9pm in the Charles Hastings building at the University’s City Campus on Castle Street.

Lecturer Elena Lengthorn said it was an opportunity to watch a series of powerful and thought-provoking films and have conversations about these global issues.

At the event, there will also be a formal launch of the University’s new Sustainability Forum, chaired by Elena, which provides a space for the community to come together to discuss a range of issues relating to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

You can book free tickets to the via Eventbrite at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/our-shared-futures-climate-migration-community-film-festival-tickets-1922351036699?aff=oddtdtcreator

The post Evening of Powerful Films Exploring Climate Change and Migration appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

The post Bankside College – Employer Open Event in Partnerships with EBC Group appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.

When Matthew joined Ballard Dale Syree in 2005, the firm employed just over 30 people. Today, Ballards LLP has more than 150 staff and is recognised nationwide for its expertise in the medical sector.

Matthew built Ballards’ medical specialism from the ground up, expanding from a small local portfolio to a dedicated team now working with more than 50 GP Partnerships and over 600 Medical Consultants and Surgeons across the UK, including prestigious clients such as the Confederation of British Surgeons.

“I wanted to create a medical accounting service that would really make a difference to doctors’ lives and businesses,” says Matthew. “Twenty years on, I’m proud of what our team has achieved.”

Matthew merged his family firm, WW Watson Chartered Accountants, with Ballard Dale Syree in 2005, bringing with him his wife Janet, who also celebrates 20 years with Ballards this year.

“The scale of medical practices has changed dramatically,” Matthew adds. “We’ve gone from one or two GPs in a partnership to large, complex organisations with twenty or more partners. We’ve grown alongside them.”

Matthew says he’s still as enthusiastic as ever. “I’ve always said I only work with nice people,  and after 20 years, I still love what I do.”

About Ballards LLP
Ballards LLP is an award-winning accountancy practice based in Droitwich Spa, providing audit, tax, and advisory services across the Midlands and beyond. Its specialist medical division supports GP Partnerships and Consultants across the UK, helping them navigate financial and regulatory challenges with confidence.

The post Local Partner Celebrates 20 Years with Ballards LLP — Building a National Success Story In Worcestershire appeared first on Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce.