Two Suffolk business bodies have agreed to closer ties to enable members to enjoy the benefits of more co-operation.

A ‘linked to’ agreement between Suffolk Chamber of Commerce and Suffolk Coast Business (SCB) was formally launched today (Wednesday, June 28) at Suffolk Coast Business Event, held at Ufford Park Hotel and Spa, near Woodbridge.

It means that the two organisations will have a closer working relationship to benefit members and add weight to their respective campaigning and lobbying initiatives.

Suffolk Chamber will also have a seat on the Suffolk Coast Business board.

The agreement allows both organisation’s to share ideas, policy initiatives, publicity and improve working relationships at all levels.

Both believe the deal gives them all a bigger, better and more credible voice when lobbying government, MPs, councils, quangos and other bodies and have welcomed the momentum it adds to their organisations.

Suffolk Chamber is the oldest member-based business body in the county with strong representation in Bury St Edmunds, Greater Ipswich, Haverhill & District, Lowestoft & Waveney and Newmarket & District areas, while Suffolk Coast Business has a solid presence in Suffolk Coastal district.

Suffolk Coast Business chair Jenny Stockman said: “The bespoke ‘linked to’ agreement with Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is a much needed, very exciting and timely development for SCB.

“I very much look forward to seeing our members making the most of these extra resources and reaping the benefits from the amazing opportunities evolving in our area.”

Suffolk Chamber chief executive John Dugmore said: “Although the county is generally a good place in which to run a business, there is a positive advantage in our two organisations more closely co-operating together to share opportunities and to ensure that the voice of business is heard loudly and clearly on all the key issues that affect us.

“The beauty of this bespoke and carefully crafted ‘linked to’ arrangement is that it preserves the unique identity of both bodies, but offers tangible benefits to members of each in taking advantage of our respective offers and strengths.”