The most important survey that we do with our members is the Quarterly Economic Survey. This goes out to members of every accredited Chamber in the UK and is the biggest and most representative business survey in the country. We use it to assess how our members are performing and it allows us to compare between cities and over time.

The fieldwork for Quarter 1 2010 has now begun and we hope you will take just four minutes to complete the online survey. It's multiple choice and easy to fill out.

You can do it at http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/qes. Our Chamber ID is 46 and the password is economy.

I hope you'll take a few moments to ensure that Sheffield businesses are properly represented. That way we can truly be the 'voice of business' for the city. The deadline is Friday 12th March.

Businesses play a vital role in the whole community. They provide jobs, goods and services that are essential to daily life. Unfortunately, obesity is a becoming the single biggest health problem facing the UK. It is estimated that 24% of the adult population is currently classed as obese. More worryingly, the prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing quickly. In 2004/05, 16% of Sheffield children in reception year were obese or overweight. In 2008/09 this had risen to 22%. The trend is similar for higher age groups.

 

Sheffield Let's Change4Life is an innovative programme that is aiming to tackle obesity and as part of this they are seeking the support and expertise of the business community. Here at Sheffield Chamber of Commerce we are raising the profile of the initiative through our extensive networks. Not only are we trying to get support for the family side but we are also showing the benefits of a healthier workplace. Not many know that obesity causes an estimated 19,000,000 sick days a year and costs the UK economy billions in lost productivity.

Make sure that your business and the people you employ are fit and health and see productivity and morale increase. For further details on how we can work with you contact iain.smith@scci.org.uk  

What a start to the New Year. 2010 has already been eventful for a number of reasons. First, the snow brought the country to a stand still, then we ran out of grit. The country came out of recession and Tony Blair faced the Iraq enquiry.

Not a quiet start to a new decade, the year is certainly going to be eventful and quite a journey I'm sure. Let's hope that we see some positive stories as the year unfolds.

We are keen to hear how the New Year was for your business, was it a "snow" start or did you get off to a flying start?

Get in touch via the blog or e-mail info@scci.org.uk