South Wales Chamber of Commerce were pleased to host a table at the annual ACCA St David’s Day business breakfast on Friday 28 February. The popular, sold-out breakfast was held in support of the Marie Curie Daffodil Appeal, helping the charity to provide free care and support to people living with terminal illnesses.

Sponsored by Menzies LLP and the University of South Wales, the event included a Bucks Fizz drinks reception and delicious breakfast to start the day in the best way possible. Entertainment by choir Only Men Aloud roused the spirits of those in attendance as they performed a set in Welsh ahead of the keynote address.

Following an introductory speech from ACCA Global Deputy President Mark Millar in which he encouraged Welsh businesses to “think ahead”, referencing ACCA’s long-term slogan, Frank Holmes took to the stage to address the packed room. A partner at Gambit Corporate Finance and the Chair of the Cardiff Capital Region Economic Growth Partnership & Investment Panel, Frank spoke about the Cardiff City Deal, a £1.28 bn GVA-growth and jobs programme involving ten South Wales local authorities.

South Wales Chamber of Commerce and their guests listened with interest as Frank discussed how public bodies, social enterprise and businesses should collaborate to create a more connected, competitive and resilient region which in turn will lead to maximised investment and economic growth opportunities in Wales.