19 Dec 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your continued support throughout this year. Let’s be honest: it hasn’t been an easy year. Increased Employers’ National Insurance Contributions, new tariffs on trade with the US, and a sluggish economy have all played their part. But we here at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce have been proud to champion our members and our city during what has been another busy, often challenging, but resilient year. None of what we have achieved would have been possible without you.
This was the year we celebrated Glasgow’s 850th anniversary, honouring our city’s rich history and, with thanks to our Platinum Partners Land Securities, even lighting up Piccadilly Circus with Glasgow 850 messaging, followed by a Parliamentary Reception at Westminster. Hosted by Maureen Burke MP, we invited members from some of Glasgow’s largest employers to urge the UK Government to align Glasgow’s funding with other major city regions and highlighted the ten projects we have been championing across the city region.
Continuing our celebration of Glasgow’s milestone, we launched Taste the Place, a campaign showcasing Glasgow’s vibrant hospitality scene, to huge success with it generating an impressive 6.6 million social media views.
Our commitment to celebrating and supporting business continued with the 27th Glasgow Business Awards, an evening recognising excellence across the city to an audience of over 700, and the third Congress of Business, which brought together delegates to drive meaningful climate action and empower businesses to lead on sustainability.
Beyond our city, Glasgow’s global footprint expanded through five successful international trade visits – from Tartan Week in New York to being the guest city at the China Shanghai International Technology Fair, alongside visits to Singapore and Bremen. We signed new MOUs with Bremeninvest and major Chinese institutions, and welcomed delegations from Germany and China to the city. These efforts mean Glasgow now boasts one of the UK’s largest Chamber trade development programmes, powered by ambitious Glaswegian companies ready to grow.
To strengthen Glasgow’s international position further, we welcomed the creation of the Destination Marketing and Management Organisation reinforcing Glasgow’s commitment to promoting trade and investment, ensuring the city remains competitive and attractive on the global stage.
At the same time, we secured Glasgow's first-ever Business Improvement District, with an overwhelming 87% YES vote. This landmark decision represents a £14.5 million investment over the next five years to create a city centre that attracts investment, supports growth, and offers a welcoming experience for all.
Our focus on sustainability has been equally strong. The Step Up to Net Zero programme, supported by Glasgow City Council, has helped over 90 companies make significant strides towards a greener future. Meanwhile, our new GROW initiative – backed by a £1 million investment from JPMorgan Chase – will support over 700 young people and deliver 40,000 hours of work experience across the Glasgow City Region, exemplifying our commitment to building a capable, inclusive workforce.
This is just a snapshot of the Chamber’s work. We remain dedicated to supporting your growth and the continued success of our city.
On behalf of everyone at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, thank you for your valued support. Wishing you a wonderful festive season and a prosperous 2026. We look forward to working with you to drive growth and opportunity for Glasgow.
Warm regards,
Stuart Patrick CBE
Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce
