Delivering the ambition for a greener, healthier and more prosperous Thames Valley
The State of the Region event returns for 2026, bringing together business leaders, policymakers and industry experts to unpack the forces shaping our regional economy.
This year’s event puts the latest British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) results under the microscope, alongside expert perspectives on the national and global trends driving business confidence. It’s also your opportunity to help shape the policy priorities we’ll be championing on behalf of Thames Valley businesses over the year ahead.
Whether you’re planning investment, navigating uncertainty, or simply want a clearer picture of where the region stands, this is the essential briefing for anyone doing business in the Thames Valley.
First Speakers Announced
Mike Bagshaw, Managing Director and Founder, International Taste Solutions
Olly Glover, MP for Didcot and Wantage and Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Transport)
Darren O’Connor, Partner, James Cowper Kreston
Two panel discussion session will cover –
- Reading the Signals – Growth Resilience and What’s Next – What the past year’s results reveal about business confidence, and the signals worth watching going into next year.
- The Bigger Picture: Global and UK Forces Driving Business Outlook – How shifting domestic and international dynamics are shaping the outlook for Thames Valley businesses.
Agenda –
9am – Arrival and registration
9.30am – 9.35am – Welcome from Chamber CEO, Paul Britton
9.35am – 9.45am – Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) update
9.45am to 10.45am – Session 1 hosted by Tim Major, Account Manager, TVCC
10.45am to 11.15am – Break and networking
11.15am to 12.15pm – Session 2 hosted by Natasha Staines, Account Manager, TVCC
12.15pm to 12.30pm – Closing remarks
12.30pm to 1.30pm – Lunch and networking
1.30pm – Close
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