Critical Discussion Held Between Local Businesses and MP Lee Pitcher

Held at Amazon Fulfilment Centre, Doncaster, the venue served as a reminder of the scale of opportunity linked to the area’s logistics strengths and connectivity.

The discussion focused primarily on the rising cost of employment, with businesses highlighting the cumulative impact of increases in national minimum wage, National Insurance contributions and pensions. Attendees described significant pressure on operating costs alongside growing wage compression between entry-level and experienced roles. While recognising the importance of improving living standards, there was a clear call for a more balanced and sustainable approach. One participant also urged a shift in how sustainability is positioned, emphasising economic efficiency and cost savings as a more effective way to engage businesses.

Workforce challenges were also a key theme, with ongoing skills shortages and reliance on overseas labour raised across sectors including construction and social care. Businesses stressed the need for more practical solutions, particularly around skills development and wage subsidies, while noting that many current schemes are too complex and place too much risk on employers. There was also concern that uncertainty in Westminster and ongoing political distractions are making it harder to focus on long-term local priorities and business confidence.

Investment in the defence sector was also raised, with attendees highlighting the growing importance of digital and AI-driven capabilities in modern defence and the vital role this plays in national security. Participants noted that defence represents a significant opportunity for economic growth, particularly for regions like Doncaster, and stressed the importance of improving access to supply chains for businesses of all sizes. The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to working with partners to ensure these opportunities are accessible not only to large organisations, but also to SMEs, enabling more local businesses to benefit from future defence investment.

The roundtable provided a valuable opportunity for open and honest dialogue, allowing businesses to share real-world experiences directly with policymakers. Doncaster Chamber will continue to facilitate these conversations, ensuring that the voice of business is clearly represented in the decisions that shape the region’s future.

Dan Fell MBE, CEO of Doncaster Chamber, said: "Today’s discussion underlined the scale of the challenges businesses are facing. These pressures are real and immediate. What’s clear is that businesses want to be part of the solution, but they need policy that works with them, not against them. Bringing voices from across our local economy into the room with decision-makers is essential, and we will continue to champion those views to help drive growth, confidence and long-term prosperity for the region."