The South Wales Chamber of Commerce has been in existence since 1846. Over 160 years later, 2009 saw the establishment of a fully accredited pan South Wales organisation. We are affiliated to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), through whom we have access not only to their UK membership base of in excess of 100,000 businesses, but also the International Chamber of Trade and its overseas members.

Over a period spanning three centuries, the Chamber has worked to form strong links with local businesses and firmly establish itself as one of the most prestigious and valued members of the local business support sector. Recent mergers with Newport & Gwent Enterprise, the West Wales Chamber of Commerce (est. 1846), and the awarding of the Cardiff area to the Chamber by the BCC has further strengthened this stance. Our new capacity to represent and support local businesses on a regional level as the South Wales Chamber signifies a more prominent, powerful and effective independent business voice ready to speak on behalf of our members. Although we have grown in size and stature, our principal aim remains the same: to continue to support hundreds of local companies and organisations in making their businesses as successful as possible – regardless of size, age or sector. The needs and aspirations of the members of our new pan-South Wales Chamber continue to be, and will always be, of the most paramount importance.

Timeline

1st December 2009

The Chamber merged with the West Wales Chamber of Commerce, establishing stronger representation for local businesses, a greater range of business support services and a larger business network through its new pan South Wales footprint.

1st October 2008

The Chamber is re-branded and becomes ‘The South Wales Chamber of Commerce’ following an announcement by the British Chambers of Commerce that the Chamber would henceforth additionally represent Cardiff and its surrounding areas.

1st April 2003

The Chamber merges with Newport & Gwent Enterprise to become ‘The Newport & Gwent Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise & Industry.’

2002

David Russ becomes Chief Executive of the Chamber, leading to an even closer working relationship with Newport and Gwent Enterprise.

2000

The Chamber comes under the management of Newport and Gwent Enterprise. It was re-branded to become ‘ngb2b’ but retained its identity as ‘The Newport and Gwent Chamber of Commerce and Industry.’

1987

The Chamber becomes ‘The Newport and Gwent Chamber of Commerce and Industry.’

1975

The Chamber name is changed to ‘The Newport and Gwent Chamber of Commerce (Incorporated).’

1948

The Chamber is known as ‘The Newport and Monmouthshire Chamber of Commerce (Incorporated).’

1846

The West Wales Chamber of Commerce is established.