Last week, the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce celebrated its remarkable 230th anniversary with a special event at Elliot House, its headquarters located in the heart of the city center. This milestone marks over two centuries of the Chamber’s significant impact on local commerce and its evolution into the largest Chamber of Commerce in the UK, representing not only the 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester but also extending its influence further afield.
The event was a vibrant gathering of sponsors, members, and staff, along with past Presidents and Chairs who have contributed to shaping the direction of the Chamber in more recent years. Together, they celebrated the Chamber’s key milestones and its foundational role since the inception of the Manchester Commercial Society in 1794.
Clive Memmott OBE, the Chamber’s Chief Executive, addressed the attendees, expressing gratitude for their sustained support and reflecting on the deep historical roots and achievements of both the Chamber and the Greater Manchester region.
Lucy Mulligan, Head of Marketing at the Greater Manchester Chamber, shared her enthusiasm: “This was a wonderful celebration of over two centuries of representing local businesses. I’d like to thank all our Birthday Partners who helped to make this event such a success. We were not just celebrating our own birthday but also the achievements of the entire business community.”
Mulligan further highlighted the Chamber’s ongoing role and its future orientation: “Although the area we now call Greater Manchester has changed beyond recognition over the past 230 years, we continue to act as the voice of business, highlighting the key issues affecting our members. This event was not just about acknowledging our long history, but also looking forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
She added, “The Chamber looks ahead to the significant development of Greater Manchester as a region, with the new trailblazer devolution deal, a potential new government leading the UK, and of course, our Mayor re-elected for a third term. It’s never been a better time to do business in Greater Manchester – and the Chamber is a key part of the eco-system to deliver this.”
The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce continues to play a crucial role in supporting and advocating for the business community as it navigates both current opportunities and future challenges.
