Press Release

7^thNovember 2013

New President for Barnstaple & District Chamber of Commerce

This week saw the election of the new President of the Barnstaple & District Chamber of Commerce. Caroline Bramwell, Managing Director of The Olden Group PR, Marketing & Graphic Design was awarded the mantle by outgoing President, Jon Dunkley of Toller Beattie Solicitors at the Chamber's AGM.

In his address to the membership, Jon précised the current economic market locally, saying that whilst we are informed nationally that the economy is relatively static, the Chamber is buoyed by anecdotal reports of increasing orders, recruitment and other positive indicators from members and other businesses locally. Whilst it is not thought that anyone expects the economy to boom in the short-term it does appear that we are moving into a phase of sustained growth.

In the last 12 months, the Barnstaple & District Chamber of Commerce has made significant internal changes to improve both the operations and communications of the organisation to support its membership. This has been rewarded with a continuously increasing membership.

Said Caroline: "On behalf of the Chamber Executive Committee, I thank Jon for steering the Chamber over the last two years through some tough times, and we are definitely coming out stronger and more positive. The Chamber continues to grow and as a membership organisation, it is our endeavour to provide more support to our members and listen to the issues that most concern them.

"A recent survey indicated that some of the most important issues affecting our members are Superfast Broadband, transportation links into the South West, and the desire to work more closely with local Council Departments. These we will be addressing through our lobbying activity.

"We are also committed to help boost business in North Devon and will again be hosting the Inspiring Business exhibition that was launched in April this year. The first business to business exhibition of its kind locally, this event drew exhibitors and visitors from far and wide, despite some pretty awful weather on the day! Stands are already being sold for the next event in April 2014.

"In addition, we shall be hosting regular networking social events, where members and non-members can meet and do business."

Businesses interested in joining the Barnstaple & District Chamber of Commerce, or exhibiting at the Inspiring Business 2014 exhibition, can find out more by visiting www.barnstaplechamber.co.uk or telephone 01271 533144.

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Further editorial enquiries:

Barnstaple & District Chamber of Commerce

01271 533144