About Dawlish Chamber of Trade and Commerce

The primary aims of Dawlish Chamber of Trade are to inform its members about issues affecting the local economy in general and business in particular; and to influence councils and government to further the interests of the businesses trading in the town.  It is the voice of local businesses, providing information about events and activities which impact or may conceivably impact on the future prosperity of the businesses in the locality so that business owners can make informed comment on matters that concern them.  The chamber is supporting the Dawlish Fairtrade campaign and encourages members to do so through their businesses and shopping habits.

Through monthly meetings which are open to members and non-members as guests, and through this website the Chamber provides a forum for views to be aired and action to be taken jointly to make our representatives in local government and other appropriate bodies aware of the issues which concern the local business community.  While this not taking the place of individual lobbying a joint approach of an official body is often more influential than that of individual businesses.  The success,and degree of influence is dependant upon being an informed and representative voice, and members of the Dawlish business community are therefore encouraged to participate.  Attendance at the monthly meetings is of course welcomed and at the same time the chamber leadership recognises that for many of our local businesses available time is limited, particularly during the holiday season when many are at their busiest.

For those able to attend meetings they have the opportunity to network, meet with other people in a similar situation, sharing ideas and concerns.  As plans for a major supermarket come to fruition this opportunity becomes even more relevant as businesses need to consider the opportunities as well as the threats that this presents and plan effective action to make the most of the changing situation.

As a lobby group and source of information for its members the chamber is represented on the Dawlish Regeneration Trust, the Dawlish Local Produce Market management team, the Dawlish Town Council Civic Amenities Committee and has a good working relationship with Dawlish Town Council.  In this way the influence of Dawlish Chamber of Trade is growing.  It is not however resting on its laurels and really needs increasing backing from local businesses in order to maintain the flow or relevant information as well as to generate sufficient funds in order to continue the research carried out by our diligent Chamber Secretary, Lynne Nichols who works tirelessly (and for very little reward) to keep our membership abreast of relevant issues.