Dorset Chamber urged local businesses to “stay positive” through a difficult economic climate at its annual general meeting (AGM) last Thursday.

Chief executive Ian Girling added that the chamber’s leadership would be vital over the coming year.

The business support organisation – which has almost 700 members representing 37,000 employees – celebrated its 75th anniversary this year, with several new initiatives already lined up for 2025.

This year’s AGM also saw the election of Tony Brown of Y-Not Finance for a second term as president, while Gareth Sherwood of YMCA Bournemouth will continue as vice-president.

Ian, marking his own 11th year with the chamber, said: “As we look to the future, we will continue to stand by the side of business.

“We’ll always seek to do our very best to support business and foster a vibrant and prosperous community that really enhances the quality of life of all in the area.

“It’s a tough economic climate out there at the moment, and trading conditions are hard.

“Employer national insurance increases are going to be a huge challenge for business in Dorset and across the country.

“The leadership of the chamber is really important, and positivity within business is crucial.

“As a chamber, we really try to unite the business community and help push it forward.”

Among the highlights of the past year were a 75th anniversary ball and the Dorset Business Festival, which attracted more than 1,000 guests.

The chamber unveiled its new vision for “a vibrant and prosperous Dorset business community that enhances the quality of life for all” and its mission “to drive the growth and prosperity of businesses as the county’s leading business support and representative organisation”.

Plans for 2025 include leadership and sales programmes, plus more initiatives like its Future Leaders Forum and Campfire initiative with the Intergage Group to help businesses harness the power of AI.

The chamber is also looking to develop new income streams.

Ian thanked the organisation’s members for their support, including business partners, event sponsors, BCP Council, Dorset Council and education providers, as well as its own staff, ambassadors and board members.

The newly re-elected Tony Brown added: “It’s been a fantastic year and I’m thankful for the opportunity.

“It’s a privilege to work alongside such an amazing group of professionals at the chamber and its members who care deeply about supporting each other and making Dorset a better place in which to live and work.”

Other board appointments at the AGM included Caron Khan as past president, Helen Stacey as chair of the council of ambassadors, Matthew Fretten as honorary solicitor, Lesley Fox as honorary treasurer and Future Leaders Forum chair Toni Taylor, along with Simon Boyd, Nicky Busst, Lesley Keets and Gail Polkinghorne as non-executive directors.

The meeting at the Highcliff Marriott Hotel in Bournemouth was followed by the chamber’s Christmas lunch, which raised £1,775 for Wessex Heartbeat.