Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Group has become the first UK Chamber of Commerce to become a COBCOE member. Until a change to the COBCOE articles of association at the AGM in April, members had to be based in continental Europe.
As the leading voice of businesses for the region the Chamber represents companies of all sizes from micro to multinational organisations. It helps drive better economic conditions and new opportunities for members and the wider community.
Paul Britton, Chief Executive of the Chamber commented: “Joining the established COBCOE network provides the Chamber and our aspiring international customers with unique and valuable commercial opportunities. We are delighted to be the UK’s first Chamber member.”
The Chamber has a strong international focus and was one of the first Chambers to become a network on the COBCOE Connects platform helping businesses find trusted contacts in new markets. It recently launched a new global membership package which includes membership of COBCOE Connects. The service allows members to not only look for business opportunities but also put forward opportunities across the trusted network. The Chamber helps with facilitation of introductions and moderates the site.
Anne-Marie Martin, COBCOE Chief Executive, said: “We are both pleased and excited to have such an internationally focused and forward thinking chamber on board as our first UK member. This brings a whole new dimension to our membership offering and will be of tremendous benefit to Thames Valley Chamber members and the businesses within our membership network across Europe.”
Thames Valley is one of the highest performing regions in Europe. It accounted for 15% of the UK’s exports in 2016 and is the UK home of many global brands, including 11 of the world’s top 15 tech companies. It also ranks highly for economic potential, human resources, cost effectiveness, quality of life, infrastructure and business friendliness.
