Dorset’s chamber of commerce has retained its prestigious status as one of the country’s leading business support organisations.
Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) gained the official seal of approval after successfully becoming re-accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).
Fast growing DCCI, the voice of business in Dorset, is the only chamber in the county to hold accreditation status and one of a select band of just 52 nationwide.
Accreditation status recognises DCCI’s good practice and continued improvement in high standards of governance, resources management and member services.
It comes after a robust assessment process, which the BCC uses to evaluate its chambers every two to three years.
Ian Girling, DCCI chief executive, said: “We are extremely proud of our accreditation with the British Chambers of Commerce.
“This demonstrates our commitment to the Dorset business community and provides Dorset businesses with a powerful and influential link to Government.
“It also places us in the unique position as the voice for business in Dorset.”
President Rob Mitchell added: “This achievement is due to hard work and dedication of the staff at DCCI.
“It comes as we continue to modernise and forge stronger links with the BCC to help support our members, drive growth in the local economy and make Dorset’s voice heard on the local, regional and national stage.”
The Government sees the BCC as an influential voice for business and regularly consults with the organisation on key issues for business.
Through accreditation, DCCI is able to offer valuable services such as advice and support, competitive exchange rates for international trade, legal advice and health products for companies and employees.
BCC director-general John Longworth said: “We are delighted to re-accredit the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, confirming its place at the heart of the nationwide network of Chambers of Commerce.
“Under Rob Mitchell’s presidency and Ian Girling’s leadership, the DCCI is well placed to go from strength to strength, continuing its excellent work of tirelessly supporting local businesses and making sure their voice is heard and listened to across the rest of the country.”
As a progressive chamber, DCCI is continuing to strengthen its relationship with the BCC.
It has actively engaged in the development of chamber services with the BCC, including the pilot Young Chamber project to help develop the links between education and business.
Five town chambers have or are in the process of affiliating to DCCI, building a countywide voice for business through a strong chamber network.
A party from DCCI, which has more than 760 members representing 37,000 employees, attended the BCC conference in London earlier this year.
David Riches, BCC executive director commercial and marketing, also spoke at a DCCI business partners lunch late last year.
