Banbury MP listens to local business owners' concerns at round table meeting

Concerns about hiring, economic confidence and public service pressures on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) were the focus of the meeting hosted by the Banbury Chamber of Commerce.

The meeting held at Bloxham Mill Workspaces was attended by business representatives from the recruitment, finance, education, legal, insurance, accountancy and local enterprise sectors.

Speaking after the event, Banbury Chamber of Commerce chair Lisa-Marie Mallier said: “Banbury has a strong and diverse business community, but today’s discussion made it clear that many are facing real barriers to growth.

“This roundtable was about ensuring those voices are heard, locally and nationally, and working together to find practical solutions that support businesses and our wider community.”

During the meeting, some business owners highlighted that rising employment costs have been discouraging growth and recruitment.

They stated that additional costs such as National Insurance, payroll and business rates are making employers more cautious when it comes to hiring.

It was also discussed how some businesses have turned to digital solutions and automation to manage costs and reduce the need to hire new staff.

Other issues spoken about included the gap between education and employment, and how “short-term policy-making and frequent changes in direction at a national level has been undermining long-term confidence” for local SME businesses.

Representatives from the legal sector also spoke about the underfunding of civil legal aid and the limited legal aid provision based in Banbury.

Sean Woodcock MP added: “It is always incredibly valuable to hear directly from our local business community and hear their concerns and suggestions.”