Paul Britton, CEO, Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce |
The Q2 2026 Quarterly Economic Survey presents a picture of a Thames Valley business community that continues to demonstrate resilience in the face of persistent economic uncertainty. While businesses are finding opportunities for growth, they remain cautious about the challenges that lie ahead. Encouragingly, many firms have reported increased UK sales and improved turnover, while workforce expectations remain largely stable.
Businesses continue to invest in their people and equipment, reflecting long-term confidence in the region’ s strengths. These are positive indicators that underline the adaptability and ambition of Thames Valley businesses. However, this resilience should not be mistaken for complacency. Inflation, taxation and rising labour costs remain significant concerns, with many businesses expecting further price pressures over the coming months. Recruitment continues to be a challenge, particularly for skilled and professional roles, highlighting the ongoing need to develop the workforce our economy depends upon.
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The findings reinforce a clear message for policymakers, that businesses need bold, and business friendly interventions and we will be working with members to hit home as a new Prime Minister is anticipated before the summer recess. Businesses need stability, confidence and a policy environment that encourages investment, innovation and growth.
By addressing barriers to recruitment, reducing unnecessary cost pressures and supporting business investment, we can unlock the full potential of one of the UK’ s most dynamic regional economies. Thank you to the businesses that contribute to the survey, I wanted to take this opportunity to remind our members and the wider business community of the significance of the findings to champion policies that enable businesses to thrive.
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CHAMBER NEWS QES |
Darren O’ Connor, Partner, James Cowper Kreston |
The Quarterly Economic Survey continues to provide a timely and valuable insight into the sentiment and performance of businesses across the Thames Valley. As one of the UK’ s most established and closely watched business surveys, it remains an important indicator of economic direction, often highlighting trends ahead of official data.
This quarter’ s findings reflect a picture of cautious resilience. While there are encouraging signs in UK sales and order books, overall conditions remain challenging. Cost pressures— particularly labour, inflation and wider overheads— continue to weigh on margins, and businesses are responding with a measured approach to recruitment and investment rather than pursuing rapid expansion.
Encouragingly, the data also highlights the adaptability of the region’ s businesses. Many are focusing on strong cash flow management, operational efficiency and longer-term sustainability, balancing immediate pressures with future opportunity. This pragmatic approach underpins a degree of confidence in the medium term, despite ongoing uncertainty.
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It reinforces the importance of clear, forward-looking advice in helping businesses navigate complexity and plan with confidence.
At James Cowper Kreston, we see these dynamics first-hand through our work with clients across the region. It reinforces the importance of clear, forward-looking advice in helping businesses navigate complexity and plan with confidence.
We are pleased to support this report and thank all contributors for ensuring the voice of the regional business community is clearly heard.
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