Nichola Mallon’s Post

To realise fully the potential of Northern Ireland’s economy, we are urging the Northern Ireland Executive to develop and deliver a NI-specific logistics strategy. In our new report “Logistics: underpinning Northern Ireland’s economy”, we highlight the significance of the sector to the economy and identify five key areas where we believe the NI Executive must focus attention to drive sustainable growth: unlocking investment through public-private partnerships; innovative and integrated infrastructure; a fair transition to a green economy, addressing the skills challenge, and growing trade by building on easements under the Windsor Framework and maximising Northern Ireland’s unique selling point and market access to Great Britain and the EU. The report can be downloaded here: https://lnkd.in/ej46JhFs

One of the stated aims released today in the NI Executive’s new draft Programme For Government is to “grow a globally competitive and sustainable economy.” The document also states that we “need the right infrastructure which will create the foundations for a more productive and prosperous economy.” Commenting on this, RHA Policy Lead for Northern Ireland John Martin said: “We welcome the draft programme for Government, and we note and are encouraged by the stated priority of growing the economy. For the NI economy to grow and thrive, particularly in the manufacturing and agrifood sectors - the vast majority of materials and products need to be transported by vehicles to markets outside the region. To that end, we must do all we can to keep the supply chain resilient and to protect the free circulation of goods. “The logistics industry is a key economic growth enabler. It’s also essential that Northern Ireland has a well-supported coach sector to support growth in tourism. Supporting the overall road transport sector is critical to this stated priority and to supporting the wider economy. “Investment in the road network would improve journey times and can unlock growth through better connectivity... We look forward to more detail on specific infrastructure commitments. “At a time of growing cost pressures and uncertainties for businesses, it’s important that policy makers understand the key pressures and challenges facing the logistics and coach sectors in Northern Ireland..." READ our reaction in full 👇 https://lnkd.in/ezj-MyYz #RHACostsAndRegulation #RHAInfrastructure

The Scottish Chambers of Commerce Network has unveiled the ‘Rally for Growth’ report, a dynamic business-led action plan for the next UK government to invigorate our economy. This strategic plan emphasises: 📈 Unleashing Business Growth 💰 Accelerating Investment 🌍 Boosting Global Trade 👩💼 Prioritising People & Talent Key actions include: 🔹 No new taxes or levies on businesses 🔹Introduction of a Green Industrial Strategy to drive investment 🔹 VAT reductions for hospitality, leisure, and tourism 🔹 Boosting SME exports and strengthening EU market ties 🔹 Develop a skilled migration strategy to attract international talent Discover the full set of actions here: Rally For Growth report #RallyforGrowth #ScottishBusiness #westlothianchamber

Ibec’s “More than meets the eye” report on Ireland’s Experience Economy highlights how it runs much deeper than the surface of traditional front-of-house, embracing a supply chain with many ancillary suppliers and contractors. Ibec is calling for deliberate and co-ordinated action at the highest level of Government to ensure the sustainable and economic development of this key business economy across all regions of Ireland. Discover More: https://lnkd.in/eZT2vJM #ExperienceEconomy #YourExperienceEconomy #MoreThanMeetsTheEye

After facing a tough 2023 in the UK logistics sector with a 43% decrease in take-up, many were looking forward to a more promising 2024 as economic indicators began to show signs of improvement. Although the Bank of England has not yet lowered base rates, the focus has shifted to when it will happen rather than if. This shift is due to the ongoing progress in inflation readings, which are gradually moving closer to the target of 2%. The recent general election outcome was centered around the theme of 'change', and while it is too soon to make definitive statements, financial markets have reacted positively. The Labour Party included planning reforms and a plan for sustainable economic growth in its manifesto, which could bring hope for increased activity in the latter part of the year and beyond. See more:

After facing a tough 2023 in the UK logistics sector with a 43% decrease in take-up, many were looking forward to a more promising 2024 as economic indicators began to show signs of improvement. Although the Bank of England has not yet lowered base rates, the focus has shifted to when it will happen rather than if. This shift is due to the ongoing progress in inflation readings, which are gradually moving closer to the target of 2%. The recent general election outcome was centered around the theme of 'change', and while it is too soon to make definitive statements, financial markets have reacted positively. The Labour Party included planning reforms and a plan for sustainable economic growth in its manifesto, which could bring hope for increased activity in the latter part of the year and beyond. See more:

📈 Northern Ireland's Manufacturing Sector Shines! 🌟🏭 Northern Ireland's manufacturing sector continues to shine in 2024, experiencing its best performance in over two years! The Ulster Bank PMI report highlights a significant rise in new orders across nearly all sectors, boosting confidence and job creation. 💼📊 While services, construction, and retail saw slower growth, manufacturing led the charge, showcasing Northern Ireland's resilience and potential. 🌍🔧 At Hanley, we are impressed by the accomplishments of Northern Ireland's manufacturing sector. We believe that this will continue to unfold new developments and innovation in the future, showcasing the region as one of the global leaders in the industry. #ManufacturingSuccess #EconomicGrowth #Innovation #hanleyautomation #LifeScience

"Let us continue building on this momentum, embrace the lessons we’ve learned, and work together to position Trinidad and Tobago as a formidable player in the global marketplace..." Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry, delivered these remarks while acknowledging the accomplishments of the Fit4Europe II project. She highlighted that the project is strategically aligned with Trinidad and Tobago's National Development Strategy 2016-2030 and supports the Roadmap to Recovery for Trinidad and Tobago: Phase II. This initiative focuses on cultivating globally competitive businesses and fostering export diversification. The Minister also emphasized several key areas in her speech: • The alignment between the EU's Green Deal and the government’s commitment to green economy initiatives and sustainable manufacturing practices under Vision 2030. • Efforts to create an enabling environment for private sector growth and enhanced export capabilities. This includes initiatives such as the National Export Booster Initiative, the National Quality Policy, the National E-Commerce Strategy, the expanded TTBizLink platform, and the recently established UK Commercial Office, which provides real-time information and support for exporters. In closing, she urged companies to share the rich culture and heritage of Trinidad and Tobago as they present their products and services to the world.

Our new Business Strategy is our commitment to delivering for Northern Ireland business and our economy. This strategy is designed to: ✅ Simplify processes for businesses of all sizes ✅ Foster innovation and sustainability ✅ Support regional growth to create a stronger, more balanced economy https://okt.to/cD8mYi Listen to our Chair, John Healy, to learn how we’re shaping the future of Northern Ireland’s economy.

Have you heard of Ontario’s Regional Development Program? This program helps companies across the province to: ✅grow their businesses ✅improve productivity ✅pursue new markets ✅create good-paying jobs Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eEu_hMJ #ManufacturingMonth