Our Story

The long history of Witney Chamber of Commerce starts on 22nd October 1920, when 32 of the town’s traders met together to form a local trade organisation. Some early Chamber debates were about what time shops should stay open until, the importance of the Rural District Council keeping the rates as low as possible, and about engaging a chap to ‘rid the town of rats’!

And over the next century, Witney Chamber of Commerce rose and fell, and rose again... Just like most Chambers of Commerce everywhere! But the Chamber has always reflected an intense pride in Witney, and its evolution as a splendid small market town, with its long and handsome High Street... And, of course, with its ancient and world-famous association with blanket-making.

Looking back through the Chambers minutes, it is clear the best and most productive times have been when the Chamber has marched in step with Councils and other local bodies. These are the times when all have worked together to advance the prosperity of the town, and not been side-tracked by agendas unconnected directly with Witney’s needs.

These successful partnerships of town, traders, Chamber, and Council is epitomised by the ‘blue plaque’ to a local planner on the wall of the Woolgate Centre, a commercial shopping centre. Fantastic common cause!

So, Witney Chamber of Commerce is still here, still representing its members and the traders and other local businesses in the area, still working with others who have Witney’s best interests at heart, still promoting the town to residents and visitors... In short, still saying: ‘Long live Witney!’

The Commitment

The Chamber:

• Celebrates the achievements of its members, and the importance of business to the success of Witney and the surrounding area.
• Promotes businesses in the town to both residents and visitors.
• Provides a forum encouraging its members to discuss business issues, and to learn from each other and from invited experts.
• Welcomes involvement from national and local government and others in any discussion, consultation, and other engagement concerning any aspect of local business.
• Is happy to represent local business alongside all other local institutions and special-interest groups.

The Operation

The Chamber:

• Has an executive committee to manage activities.
• Holds regular meetings for members and invited guests.
• Maintains a website to include Chamber news, a members’ directory, and calendar of internal and external events.
• Actively promotes Witney’s heritage and other attractions to bring visitors to the High Street.
• Helps co-ordinate access for members to take advantage of national and local government grants and other opportunities.