by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Kent firms are doing better than those in the rest of the south east, according to a chamber chief.

Jo James, chief executive of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, said that while overall growth and confidence remain weak, “Kent business overall continues slightly stronger than across the South East as a whole.”

Her remark follows the publication of the latest British Chambers of Commerce quarterly economic survey which reveals glimmers of growth.
But while the latest results suggest that businesses are growing, the pace is sluggish and inadequate for a sustainable recovery.

The survey of nearly 8,000 businesses, including Kent Invicta Chamber members, found that growth indicators, including confidence, remain below pre-recession levels. However, the survey also shows improvement in exporting activity.

Mrs James added: “Whilst it is obviously disappointing that the overall picture remains weak, there are some positive aspects, especially with regard to the upsurge in exporting activity.

“Our own members have reported a significant improvement in exports, with 85% of respondents now exporting, and four out of five regular exporters saying that export sales have increased compared with the previous three months.”

BCC director-general John Longworth said: “Growth cannot wait. The Government must take an imaginative and brave approach to stimulating the economy and helping businesses thrive.”