News

Chamber says future is looking very positive

Published

11 years ago

February 6, 2014

THE business future is looking very positive, according to the latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) from the South Wales Chamber of Commerce.

The Q4 survey for 2013, released on January 7, shows that sales are up, exports have increased, advance order books are healthy, and productivity has improved over the last 12 months. It also shows more businesses are investing in future growth and most are expecting to increase their profit margins over the next year. The results of the QES monitor the performance of businesses in south and mid Wales, and acts as a barometer for the strength of the Welsh economy.

More than three-quarters (85%) of businesses surveyed reported improving or consistent sales in the UK market, an increase of 10 percentage points since the start of the year (75%), while the figure for overseas exports was 84%, up from 76% in Q1 of 2013.

South Wales Chamber of Commerce director Graham Morgan said:

“Our final survey for 2013 is our strongest yet, with sales and export figures in particular at the highest levels we have seen for many years, and order books continuing to track sales upwards.

“Businesses are no longer simply trying to weather the conditions of the economic storm of the last few years but are actually expecting to increase their profits and grow over the next 12 months.

“We have called consistently for more support for Welsh businesses to help them access markets across the rest of the UK and overseas. There are plenty of businesses producing fantastic products, and delivering outstanding services, that are capable of penetrating markets around the UK and Europe, that would add real value to the Welsh economy.”

Almost all businesses surveyed (96%) maintained or increased their levels of investment in staff training, and more than three quarters (89%) are expecting their businesses to become more profitable over 2014.

Graham Morgan said: “Although there has been a modest rise in businesses recruiting new employees, the numbers are nowhere near where we would like to be seeing them, and this is a reminder that we continue to exist in a difficult economic climate.”

He added: “But, as we move into 2014, the future is certainly looking very positive.”

News

Crash closes Pembroke road for over two hours

Published

18 mins ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY SERVICES were called to St Daniel’s Hill, Pembroke, this morning (Thursday, December 5) following a two-vehicle collision that left one person injured.

The crash occurred on the B4319 at around 7:30am, leading to the road being closed while both vehicles were recovered. The route was reopened at approximately 9:30am.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson confirmed: “Officers received a report of a two-vehicle road traffic collision on the B4319 at about 7.30am. The road was closed while both vehicles were recovered and reopened shortly after 9.30am. The ambulance service attended to assist one person who was reported to have sustained injuries.”

An ambulance also attended.

News

Milford Haven Christmas event cancelled due to weather warning

Published

40 mins ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL has cancelled this Saturday’s (Dec 7) planned visit by Father Christmas following an amber weather warning, which includes a “threat to life.”

In a statement on social media, the council expressed disappointment but emphasized the need to prioritise public safety.

“Absolutely everything has been considered to try and get the event to go ahead,” the council said. “But safety is and must always be paramount.”

Despite the cancellation, the town’s Christmas lights will be switched on as planned. The council has pledged to explore options for organising another community event at a later date.

The decision comes as strong winds and heavy rain are forecast to hit the area on Saturday, posing risks for outdoor gatherings.

Milford Haven Town Council will provide further updates as plans for a rescheduled event develop.

News

Pembrokeshire Vikings to Host Christmas Bingo Night

Published

55 mins ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN RFC will play host to a festive evening of fun and prizes as the Pembrokeshire Vikings Mixed Ability Rugby team invites the community to their Christmas Bingo Night.

The event, set for Friday, December 6, promises an evening filled with holiday cheer, mince pies, and an opportunity to win a turkey and other fantastic prizes. Attendees can also enjoy turkey and stuffing rolls available for purchase.

Doors open at 6:30pm, with the games beginning promptly at 7:00pm. The cost to join the festivities is £10 per book, offering a chance to take home great prizes while supporting a valued local team.

The Pembrokeshire Vikings are well-known for their dedication to inclusivity in sport, and events like these help them continue their important work in the community.

For a night of bingo, delicious treats, and holiday fun, head to Milford Haven RFC and join the Vikings in celebrating the season.