In his regular column for Caerphilly Observer, Caerphilly Business Forum’s chair Tony Sheehan looks ahead to 2013.
The last few years have shown that it is impossible to predict what the future holds for businesses, but looking ahead I think it is safe to say that 2013 is once again going to be a difficult year for both companies and individuals alike.
Following the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement and the news that industry output has plunged to its lowest level in 20 years, there is increasing talk again about a triple dip recession looming. However, over the last few years businesses in Caerphilly have shown great resilience and I am hopeful that many of them will continue to stay strong despite these challenging times.
With welfare set to take a battering in 2013 thanks to planned government cuts, it makes me even more convinced that Caerphilly County Borough Council’s introduction of a Living Wage policy earlier this year was a move for the best.
It is a tough time for everyone at the moment but as always it is likely to be the poorest that are the hardest hit. However, the living wage, a salary increase for staff in the public sector which is substantially above minimum wage, will go some way towards mitigating this for some families in the borough.
I know I have mentioned this before but I would like to see the Living Wage embraced by more businesses. The world’s economic situation has an impact on us all and we as individual companies must do our utmost to look after our staff and employees. Here at Joyner’s we have paid well above the minimum wage for some time and I believe it encourages a level of loyalty that is second to none.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all Caerphilly businesses a successful and prosperous 2013.
Tony Sheehan
Chairman, Caerphilly Business Forum
For more information about Caerphilly Business Forum and its events call 029 2125 1395 or email Natalie@cbforum.co.uk