The Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce has launched its Q1 2026 Quarterly Economic Survey, calling on businesses across the county to make their voices heard at a time of mounting financial strain.

The latest findings from Q4 2025 paint a stark picture. Taxation has re-emerged as the dominant concern for local firms, cited by 63 per cent of respondents, a sharp rise from 44 per cent in the previous quarter. Cost pressures are once again tightening their grip on Northamptonshire’s business community.

Yet beneath the strain lies a current of resilience. Despite persistent headwinds, firms across the county continue to adapt, invest and trade, demonstrating a steadiness that has become characteristic of the local economy.

The Chamber is now urging companies to contribute to the Q1 2026 survey, ensuring that the lived realities of Northamptonshire businesses are reflected in national decision-making.

Louise Wall, Chief Executive of Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, said:

“Businesses across Northamptonshire are continuing to show remarkable resilience in the face of sustained economic pressure. However, the sharp rise in concern around taxation signals that many firms are once again feeling the weight of policy decisions on their day-to-day operations.

“The Quarterly Economic Survey is one of the most powerful tools we have to ensure that the real experiences of local businesses are heard at the highest levels of Government. The data gathered here feeds directly into discussions at the Treasury and the Bank of England, influencing decisions that affect interest rates, taxation and wider economic policy.

“I would strongly encourage every business, regardless of size or sector, to take a few minutes to complete the survey. Your insight matters, and together we can ensure Northamptonshire’s voice is represented clearly and credibly on the national stage.”

The Quarterly Economic Survey, run by the British Chambers of Commerce, is the largest and longest-running independent survey of business sentiment in the UK. Established in 1989 and drawing around 5,000 respondents each quarter, it provides detailed insight into domestic sales and orders, exports, recruitment intentions and difficulties, investment plans, cash flow, confidence levels and price pressures.

Its findings are closely watched by HM Treasury, the Bank of England and the Office for Budget Responsibility, and frequently attract national media attention.

Businesses can read the latest QES report here:
https://northants-chamber.co.uk/representation/quarterly-economic-surveys/

The Q1 2026 survey can be completed online at:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NNMKQ12026

By participating, firms will help ensure that Northamptonshire’s business community continues to be heard clearly in Westminster and beyond.