British Chambers of Commerce celebrate 150th anniversary

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), one of the country’s leading business groups, celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

Established in 1860, the organisation now sits at the heart of a national network of accredited Chambers of Commerce, serving over 100,000 businesses across the UK, who employ over five million people.

Commenting, BCC Director General David Frost, said:

“The BCC has been in business for 150 years. During that time we have helped hundreds of thousands of companies grow, generate wealth and create jobs in their local communities.

“Chambers are uniquely placed to help businesses of all sizes, and this role is even more important as the UK economy moves from recession to recovery. Chambers will be at the heart of this drive, ensuring that we help create the best possible environment for British business in the future.”

The first Chamber of Commerce in the English-speaking world was founded in 1768 in Jersey. Most Chambers came into being in the last quarter of the eighteenth century – during the Industrial Revolution – to help manufacturers and merchants deal with radical changes to industry and commerce.

Posted 7th Jan 2010  by member Cornwall Chamber of Commerce & Industry