Congratulations and the best of luck at awards

Apr 15 2009 by James Ramsbotham, The Journal

MANY of you will have read the feature in The Journal on the creation of an organisation to champion North East business and been more than a little confused.

Isn’t there already an organisation that has been working and campaign- ing to create better conditions for North East business for nearly 200 years? I’m sure the penny dropped for most when they saw the date on the top of the paper, April 1st.

But while the piece was somewhat tongue-in-cheek, it carried a serious message.

For at this time when businesses all over the country are facing unprecedented challenges, the importance of organisations that support and represent businesses in the most beneficial ways becomes ever more pronounced.

It may have been created back in 1815, but today NECC is more relevant than ever. And its proud history is only mirrored by that of its member companies.

Many of these companies sprung from humble origins and their histories tell of the hard work, and dedication that has brought them into being and continues to drive them forwards.

I am incredibly honoured to head up an organisation comprising such a variety of excellent businesses.

In this, my last column before The Journal Business Awards, I must reiterate my admiration for these companies and congratulate their achievements.

It is heartening to witness the phenomenal success of many of these businesses when we are constantly surrounded by news of recession, and it is testament to their commitment as well as their competitiveness that they are continuing to prosper.

The North East is well placed to ride out this recession. I have no doubt there are more tough times ahead, but I am confident in the strength of our businesses to go on and create the next 200 years in our region’s history.

I wish every company the best of luck in the regional final and I really look forward to celebrating the success of all North East companies and taking the winning company down to London to showcase their achievements in the Annual Chamber Awards in November.

James Ramsbotham is chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC)