STAMFORD Chamber of Trade and Commerce is to merge with Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce following a vote by the group’s membership on January 15, 2014.

The move will see more than 75 existing members of Stamford Chamber of Trade and Commerce transfer to Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, where they will benefit from regular networking opportunities across Cambridgeshire and will receive an enhanced membership package including free legal expenses insurance and a 24/7 legal helpline, the Chamber HR service and discounts on a range of key business services.

Following the completion of the merger, which is due to be formalised on 1 February 2014, businesses in Stamford will continue to have their own identity and views communicated with local decision-makers by their representatives on the Stamford Chamber of Commerce committee. Similar committees already exist within Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce to represent businesses in Peterborough, Ely, Fenland, Huntingdonshire and Cambridge and South Cambs.

Tim Lee, president of Stamford Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said, “As a business community we are focussed on growth and pursuing new opportunities. By becoming part of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce our members will benefit from increased opportunities to network, share expertise and develop their businesses. This is a very positive step for the Stamford business community. We will continue to lobby local organisations on issues relevant to Stamford and we look forward to helping our members establish new relationships with potential customers and suppliers within Peterborough and across Cambridgeshire.”

John Bridge OBE, chief executive of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, added, “Over the last few years businesses in our region have excelled in adapting to new markets and changing conditions, and it is a great pleasure to welcome members of the Stamford Chamber into our Chamber Network. Businesses are no longer constrained by geographical boundaries. More natural economic boundaries are emerging and businesses in and around Stamford are recognising that Peterborough and the wider Cambridgeshire area offer excellent opportunities for successful business growth.

“Under this new arrangement, Stamford Chamber of Commerce will also continue to work closely with colleagues at Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce to ensure we maximise those opportunities for all of our members.”