PwC Cambridge spearhead initiative to hear views on the drivers of business growth across Cambridgeshire & Peterborough

New piece of qualitative research gives local businesses the opportunity to have their say via an online survey.

A new survey, facilitated by PwC Cambridge, in conjunction with Cambridge Ahead, ‘Business being Heard’, launches today, Monday 12th February. The survey provides businesses with the chance to have their say, as well the opportunity to take part in ‘deep dive’ interviews, which will also be conducted by PwC Cambridge. The output of this survey, alongside material from other research parties, will add to the call for evidence issued by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Independent Economic Review (CPIER).

PwC Cambridge believe that all businesses in the region should have the opportunity to provide real insight into what they feel impacts or inhibits growth and what they want to see addressed as part of the independent economic review. It views the survey as a substantial, tangible way of achieving qualitative detail at the same time as quantitative contribution.

Commenting for PwC Cambridge, Senior Office Partner Sian Steele said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Cambridge Ahead on this vital piece of research. We see the value that businesses in the region bring locally, as well as on the world stage, but also the challenges they face. This is an exciting and vibrant region but we need to ensure the eco-system remains effective.”

Phil Melia, Fast Growth and Private Business Leader at PwC Cambridge, is the driving force behind the survey. Phil commented: “It’s always fascinating to hear what attracts businesses to this area, what keeps them here and, conversely, what factors influence them to consider moving away. This survey gives business leaders a vehicle via which to have their say – it gives business a voice.  Both the survey and the in-depth interviews will provide the CPIER commission with real stories from real businesses – ‘business being heard’.”

Jane Paterson-Todd, CEO of Cambridge Ahead added: “Working with one of our members in this way is a superb method of obtaining current data to input into the CPIER call for evidence. In addition, as part of an ongoing initiative, this work led by PwC Cambridge will enable a regular dialogue with our local businesses and we are keen to see what qualitative information is uncovered.”