BCC Global Annual Conference 2026

News

15 Jul 2026

A few weeks ago, I travelled to a very hot London to represent the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce at the British Chambers of Commerce Global Annual Conference. Bringing together Chamber leaders, senior politicians and business representatives from across the UK, the conference focused on one fundamental question: how do we deliver sustainable economic growth?

With the Isle of Man preparing for an Election, the timing could not have been better.

What struck me most was how consistent the message was throughout the day. Whether speakers came from government, opposition or business, there was agreement on one point: economic growth must come first.

That is exactly the conversation we have been having with our members over the past year through our Future of the Economy work and it was reassuring to hear many of the same themes reflected on the national stage.

Five messages I brought home from the conference.

1. Growth is the foundation

The conference reinforced something Chamber has been saying for some time: Economic growth underpins everything else we want to achieve.

Better public services, improved infrastructure, investment in skills and stronger public finances all depend on creating an economy where businesses can invest and succeed.

2. Business creates growth – Government creates the right environment

One phrase I heard repeatedly throughout the conference was that government shouold be create the right conditions, while business delivers the growth.

Businesses are ready to invest, create jobs and innovate, but they need the right environment in which to do so. Stable policy, proportionate regulation, investment in infrastructure, access to skills and long-term decision making all help create the confidence businesses need to invest.

This closely mirrors Chamber's own position that our Government and business must work in genuine partnership if we are to unlock the Isle of Man's full economic potential.

3. Confidence is one of our greatest economic assets

Confidence was a recurring theme throughout the conference.

Investment decisions are driven not only by financial considerations, but also by confidence in the future. Businesses want certainty, consistency and a clear sense of direction. Frequent policy changes or unclear priorities make long-term investment more difficult.

For the Isle of Man, this reinforces the importance of providing businesses with confidence that the Island has a clear economic vision and a commitment to delivering it.

4. Skills and innovation remain critical

Skills shortages continue to be one of the biggest barriers to growth across every sector.

Alongside workforce development, Artificial Intelligence featured prominently throughout the conference as a significant opportunity to improve productivity and competitiveness. Rather than viewing AI as a threat, speakers encouraged businesses to embrace it as a practical tool that can support employees, improve efficiency and unlock new opportunities.

These discussions closely align with Chamber's ongoing work around skills, workforce planning and ensuring businesses are equipped to compete in an increasingly digital economy.

5. Long-term thinking wins

Perhaps the strongest leadership message from the conference was the need to think beyond electoral cycles.

Sustainable economic growth requires consistency, collaboration and long-term commitment. Businesses make investment decisions over many years, and they need confidence that economic priorities will remain clear regardless of political change.

As the Isle of Man approaches an Election, this message feels particularly relevant. Our next Administration has an opportunity to provide that long-term direction and create an environment where businesses can thrive.

My Biggest Takeaway

I left the conference more convinced than ever that Chamber is focusing on the right issues.

Across the UK, the conversation has moved beyond asking whether economic growth matters. The focus is now on how governments create the confidence and conditions that enable businesses to invest, innovate and create opportunity.

That is exactly the purpose of Chamber's Future of the Economy campaign.

As we approach the Election, we will continue to ensure the voice of business is heard. Our message remains clear: if we want stronger public finances, better public services, improved living standards and greater opportunities for future generations, we must first create an economy where businesses can thrive.

The conversations taking place across the British Chambers of Commerce network reaffirm that this is the right priority - not just for the UK, but for the Isle of Man too. Chamber will continue working with members and government to help make that ambition a reality.