Associated British Ports (ABP) has teamed up with British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) to offer port-based companies a year’s “guest” membership of the chamber movement, one of the UK’s biggest business networks.

The partnership includes ABP’s two ports in Suffolk, Ipswich and Lowestoft, where companies will have the chance to make use of the services provided by Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, an accredited member of BCC.

ABP says that, as well as representing a “thank you” for their custom, the scheme aims to give port business communities a bigger voice.

James Cooper, ABP chief executive, said: “We take our responsibility to contribute to the economic wellbeing of the region seriously. One of the best ways to do that is to support our customers to make the connections they need to become even more successful.

“By making their voice heard and taking part in the business life of the region, they will also have the chance to play a part in making our region a better place to do business. And that’s something we can all benefit from.”

John Longworth, BCC director general, added: “As an island nation, ports are vital to the UK economy and the businesses based there play a huge role in creating jobs and driving growth. This is why we are pleased to welcome these businesses into our chamber network.

“Being part of this network will provide these businesses with a strong voice and influence to ensure they are given the right business climate in order to thrive. The BCC and chambers at a local level will be on hand to provide practical support.”

For further information about the scheme, call 01292 670144 or email bccmembershipoffer@abports.co.uk and quote “ABP Guest Membership Offer”.

ABP’s ports in East Anglia, Ipswich, Lowestoft and King’s Lynn, together contribute £340million to the economy every year and support 3,577 jobs in the region and 5,000 jobs nationally.

The three ports last year handled more than 1.3million tonnes of agribulks and more than 150,000 tonnes of timber. In all, ABP operates 21 ports around the UK.