The Croydon Chamber of Commerce has just released the results of its Autumn survey which found members were generally optimistic about the next three years.

The survey was conducted in the days before the September 11 terrorist attacks, so although the outlook may have changed somewhat, the results suggest the local economy was in healthy shape.

Seventy of the Chambers 1,000 members responded, providing a snapshot of local business' expectation for the next few years.

Nearly 30 per cent of members expect substantial growth in their business, with 51 per cent expecting modest growth. More than half those surveyed were planning to take on more staff, while 41 per cent said they would remain at existing levels.

A fifth of companies surveyed said they will probably relocate premises, while another fifth said they may.

Accountants (74 per cent) came out as the most used source of business support and advice, followed by banks (63 per cent) and the Chamber (49 per cent).

To assess the demand for business services, 16 areas of business support were listed. The top seven were:

o making business

contacts;

o marketing/PR/sales;

o business development ;

o strategic/business

planning;

o IT/communications;

o sourcing finance/

grants;

o internet/website

support

Finally 16 areas of Chamber activity were listed with 28 per cent saying they have' used them, 37 per cent may', 27 won't', and 8 per cent were unaware'.

Networking events were the most popular activity, and the Chambers plans for 2002 will reflect this.

The survey contributes to a better understanding of chamber membership, and helps improve service provision. To see the full survey results contact Chris Hughes.

November 26, 2001 12:00