Department for Enterprise becomes a strategic partner of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce

The Department for Enterprise has entered into a strategic partnership with Liverpool Chamber of Commerce (Liverpool Chamber), marking a significant step in developing and strengthening existing ties between Liverpool and the Isle of Man.

The relationship between Liverpool and the Isle of Man has been developing since 2018 when the Isle of Man Government signed the MOU with Liverpool’s economic development agency, Liverpool Vision. This longstanding partnership has been further cemented with the recent development of the new Ferry Terminal, the Island’s largest single investment ever into the UK.

The Department for Enterprise is committed to developing meaningful relationships with Liverpool businesses in order to diversify the Manx economy. Liverpool Chamber is a not-for-profit organisation and offers a platform to highlight trade opportunities with Isle of Man businesses to their 600 members.

Last week Liverpool Chamber hosted the first inaugural “Welcome to the IOM” networking event attended by Minister Johnston MHK and Liam Robinson, Leader, Liverpool City Council. Also in attendance were senior members of the Liverpool and Isle of Man Chambers of Commerce and industry leaders from both Merseyside and the Isle of Man.  

Tim Johnston MHK, Minister for Enterprise, said:

‘This partnership will enable us to strengthen our ties with the Liverpool business community and explore new opportunities for growth and development. We believe that this collaboration underlines the strong partnership between Liverpool and the Isle of Man, economically and culturally. We have a lot of common interests in areas such as maritime, financial services and tourism, as well as long-standing cultural links.

‘The Isle of Man is home to a diverse range of businesses across various sectors, including financial services and wealth management, business and professional services, creative, ICT and digital services. We are confident that our membership in the Liverpool Chamber will help us to showcase the strengths of our local businesses and foster new partnerships that will drive economic growth and prosperity for both the Isle of Man and Liverpool.’

Paul Cherpeau, Chief Executive of Liverpool Chamber, commented:

‘Liverpool Chamber is delighted to be working with the Isle of Man Government. The relationship between both places is of great benefit and potential. The business connections at firm level could be hugely beneficial to organisations amid the ever-changing economic and trading environment.

Our reception gave us a first opportunity to introduce business leaders in Liverpool with our counterparts from the Isle of Man. The creation of relationships, alignment of objectives and support for sustainable partnership development is an important objective to the Chamber and we expect these objectives to be achieved in the months ahead.’