Essex Global Summit welcomed to Chelmsford

Over 100 people attended the Essex Global Summit event on Wednesday 22 May 2024, where experts and industry leaders gathered to discuss the future of international trade. The event, packed with insights and shared expertise of global commerce, was hosted by Essex Chambers of Commerce in partnership with Chelmsford City Council at Chelmsford’s Hylands House.

Cllr Marie Goldman, Deputy Leader of Chelmsford City Council and Cabinet Member for a Connected Chelmsford, opened the event alongside Essex Chambers of Commerce CEO, Denise Rossiter. The pair shared examples of their own experiences trading internationally as well as how both organisations can help the Essex business community to grow in the world of global commerce.

Cllr Marie Goldman was delighted to open the event alongside Denise and welcome guests to the Chelmsford City Council venue:

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“Small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of the Essex economy. I’m proud to be the Deputy Leader of a council that understands the importance of supporting them and working in partnership with excellent organisations like the Essex Chambers of Commerce. Together we can create opportunities and an environment in which businesses can grow and thrive. I was very pleased to welcome them to Chelmsford at the start of the Global Summit event focusing on international trade.”

Cllr Marie Goldman, Deputy Leader of Chelmsford City Council and Cabinet Member for a Connected Chelmsford

Key highlights from the day

Throughout the day, guests heard from keynote speakers, including William Bain (British Chambers of Commerce Head of Trade Policy) and Sally Jones (EY’s UK Partner for Trade Policy & Strategy). Sally shared her insights about The Windsor Framework, discussing the latest position, how businesses can respond, and what the future might bring for trade between Great Britain, Northern Ireland, and the EU.

There were two panel discussions. One about the benefits of freeports, and a second later in the day about building a successful international business. Speakers on the second expert panel included Scott Goodfellow, the Managing Director of Wilkin & Sons – well known across Essex (and beyond!) for their jams, chutneys and tearooms, and Joe Denham, Founder and Chairman of the VegTrug Group, one of the most successful and recognisable garden product brands in the world.

Several breakout sessions took place across the event, with seasoned professionals leading hands-on workshops to encourage deeper understanding of critical trade strategies.

The event was closed with final words from Denise Rossiter from Essex Chambers of Commerce.

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The Essex Global Summit is further proof that the county is open for business and global trade opportunities. With two Freeports, two airports and a wealth of expertise and passion, there is endless potential for Essex to make its mark in the world of international commerce. I would like to personally thank our outstanding speakers for taking the time to share their knowledge with our attendees.

“Essex Chambers of Commerce is here to support you in all your international trade needs. Our dedicated service is available to anyone who needs guidance, documentation or access to training including funding opportunities. Our support maybe local to Essex but it has international reach."

Denise Rossiter, CEO of Essex Chambers of Commerce

The event was held at Hylands Estate in Chelmsford