2024 marks a significant milestone for Lochaber Chamber of Commerce as it widens its scope to provide enhanced business support and events throughout the wider West Highland area.
Lochaber Chamber of Commerce has recently announced exciting proposals to include businesses in Skye and Lochalsh, Raasay, Wester Ross and Oban as well as in Lochaber.
New opportunities for west highland businesses
This expansion heralds a new era of networking, skill-building, and collaboration across the region.
Sarah Riddle, President of Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, and a leader in aquaculture innovation, said: “Being a part of a chamber of commerce offers huge opportunities for businesses – in making business connections, trade opportunities and practical business assistance.”
Lochaber Chamber believes that the proposed expansion will help to amplify the business voices of the whole of the West Highlands, as well as offer valuable business benefits through being part of the Chamber network.
Inspirational hospitality entrepreneur, Anne Gracie Gunn, is delighted that Lochaber Chamber is now offering chamber services to businesses beyond Lochaber. Anne is the director of the Sonas Collection, a family of four stylish boutique hotels across Skye and Oban. Speaking of the expansion, she said: “This is something we’ve hoped would happen for many years, and we’re excited to be part of a strong business network that connects us to other businesses in the west highlands and beyond.”
“The support available through the chamber gives us the confidence to expand into new markets and we’re excited to be going forward collectively and truly working together.”
Strengthening West Highland Connections
This expansion isn’t just about geographical reach; it’s about fostering stronger connections within the local business community. Existing Chamber members and businesses throughout the West Highlands now have a platform to build working relationships and explore new opportunities.
Frazer Coupland, CEO of Lochaber Chamber, said, “Extending our reach will allow us to work more closely together for the benefit of all our communities, and to raise our voices together to ensure that our particular needs are not only heard, but also acted upon.”
Well-attended networking events have already been held in Oban, Skye and Ullapool and there’s a great feeling of west highland collaboration in the air!
