Commenting on ONS GDP figures for August 2021, published today, Claire Walker, Co-Executive Director at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

“While UK GDP is only a little way off pre-pandemic levels and there are clear indications that the economic headwinds caused by labour shortages and supply chain disruption are beginning to bite.“While some sectors such as arts, accommodation and hospitality, which opened later in the roadmap, have done well. Other sectors, such as construction, have seen a contraction which is very likely down to the issues of shortages of both people and materials.

“The increasing pressure that businesses, particularly SMEs, are facing around supply chain costs and disruption, labour shortages, price rises, soaring energy bills and taxes is stifling the recovery.

“The focus of October’s budget must now be on creating the best possible environment for businesses to grow and thrive. There must be no further up-front costs piled on business, including a commitment not to raise business rates in the coming year. Government must look to support firms through the difficult months ahead so they can secure the long-term recovery.”

Read the full ONS GDP report here