This month I had the pleasure of attending the annual Sevenoaks Business Show, organised by the Sevenoaks Town Team — a partnership between the Town Council, local businesses, and resident representatives. It’s an event I look forward to every year, and it was a privilege to welcome this year’s exhibitors alongside the Sevenoaks Mayor and Town Team Chairman, Tony Clayton.
There were many exciting new participants, including Zoe Barnes, who recently opened Retro Zo’s Sweets on St John’s Hill. It was also great to meet Loxal Security, who were showcasing their innovative solutions for key storage and security.
Regular supporters of the show were once again out in force, including Berry & Lamberts (an event sponsor), Birketts, and Warners. Another standout is Maxine Morgans, owner of the Sevenoaks Specsavers franchise. Maxine is a fantastic example of a local business owner deeply invested in her community. She is Deputy Chairman of the Town Team, and through Specsavers has supported numerous events and local causes over the years.
Local charities were also well represented. It was a pleasure to meet teams from Citizens Advice and West Kent Mind. These charities do vital work and rely on ongoing volunteer support and donations — so please do consider helping if you can.
Encouragingly, the local economy remains resilient. A recent survey by the Town Team shows that 95% of business premises in Sevenoaks are currently occupied — meaning vacancy rates are less than half the national average. In fact, smaller vacant units continue to attract strong interest, reflecting continued business confidence in the town. Sevenoaks was recently ranked 15th retail centre in the UK in the Harper Dennis Hobbs Vitality Index 2024, confirming its status as one of the best shopping destinations in the UK.
However, I know from my inbox that there is real concern among local business owners, and there have been a couple of high-profile closures locally. These are challenging times for businesses, not only in Sevenoaks but across the country. The recent increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions has hit many hard, and the abolition of Business Property Relief is a blow to family-run enterprises. The proposed changes in the Employment Rights Bill are causing serious anxiety, and we are already seeing the impact — with rising unemployment and falling job vacancies.
The Labour Government says its goal is growth, yet the measures it has introduced are having the opposite effect. You cannot tax your way to growth, while also burdening the very businesses that create jobs inevitably leads to a decline in employment.
My colleagues and I will continue to make the case for business in Westminster, and along the Town Council and Sevenoaks District Council, will always bang the drum for Sevenoaks and our excellent business community.
As ever, if you wish to discuss anything with me, please do not hesitate to get in touch at [email protected].
Laura Trott
MP for Sevenoaks and SwanleyTo see Laura's newsletter in full click here