Q3 2025 Quarterly Economic Survey Report

We are proud to have sponsored the Q3 2025 Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) Report, recently published by the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce (TVCC). This report follows the release of the national results by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), providing invaluable insights into the economic landscape.

The Q3 2025 Quarterly Economic Survey reveals a picture of reserved confidence among regional businesses. Confidence remains strong, with around 80% expecting turnover growth and over 60% anticipating improved profitability, supported by a rise in UK and overseas sales. However, challenges persist: 67% of firms are operating below full capacity, and cost pressures (particularly from labour, taxation, and raw materials) remain significant. While recruitment difficulties continue to affect many employers, the region’s resilient performance and growing export activity suggest that the Thames Valley economy is well positioned for recovery if cost and capacity constraints can be addressed.

Conducted between August 18 and September 15 2025, the survey gathered valuable input from local businesses, focusing on key economic indicators to offer a clear snapshot of the region’s business climate.

Alan Poole, Partner, commented: “The Q3 survey shows a mixed, but cautiously optimistic outlook for the Thames Valley with most of the survey measures tending towards expectations of growth and improvement in business fortunes. Overall, confidence seems quite high with almost 80% expecting to see revenue growth and over 60% expecting improvements in profitability; both figures improved on last quarter.”

Paul Britton, CEO of Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, commented: “These latest results paint a mixed picture - one of cautious optimism amid continuing pressure. Whilst many businesses remain resilient, confidence and investment appetite are still fragile. As the Budget draws near, it is essential that it delivers a comprehensive set of measures to restore confidence, ease cost pressures, and remove the obstacles holding businesses back.

Our region has enormous potential for growth, and we must seize this moment to secure long-term economic recovery and expansion. We hope the optimism captured in this report will translate into real progress - driving business success and strengthening the wider economy.”

We are proud sponsors of the TVCC's event 'State of the Region' taking place on 24 October - bringing together exclusive insights from the survey, perspectives on national and global trends, and a unique opportunity to influence future policy priorities.

Click here to download the QES Q3 report in full.