Industry leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire say firms in the region can be ‘extremely proud’ after Her Majesty The Queen offered praise to the business community for their efforts during the Coronavirus crisis.
Her Majesty The Queen offered support to businesses as they reopen, and praised the contribution Chambers of Commerce across the UK and around the world are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities, in a letter released today.
The letter from Her Majesty, Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, comes as businesses across the UK are reopening and adjusting to a new normal.
The letter reads: “At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities.”
Her Majesty also recognised the contribution Chambers of Commerce and their members have made during the pandemic: “As Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, it gives me great pride to see the contribution you and your members are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities.”
Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This has been a truly testing time for the whole country and businesses across our patch have faced the most difficult circumstances any of us can remember.
“As ever, companies have shown incredible resilience and, in many, cases have come forward to be part of the fight against the virus – whether that has been producing PPE, ventilators or supporting their community.
“Companies can be extremely proud that Her Majesty The Queen has written a letter in support of business, particularly as we are beginning the process of restarting our economy.
“As the Chamber of Commerce representing businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire, I am extremely humbled to receive this show of support and I must thank the team here at the Chamber for their incredible efforts in supporting firms in our area through this period.
“We will continue to support companies across the area as many begin to open again or return in greater numbers to their place of work, and will act at as their voice to decision-makers at a local, regional and national level.”
Welcoming the letter, BCC President Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith said: “The Queen’s personal message of support will be a huge morale boost to our business communities at this complex and sensitive time.
“We are grateful that Her Majesty has recognised the crucial role Chambers of Commerce play supporting businesses and communities through the pandemic, and as we restart, rebuild and renew the economy.”