Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce called on incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham to put business at the center of his growth agenda as he takes office after an unopposed Labour leadership win.
The group said firms across Birmingham and the West Midlands are still struggling with rising employment costs, persistent inflation and uncertainty over future taxation, which it said have weakened confidence.
Recent National Insurance increases have made it harder for employers to recruit, invest and expand, the chamber said, warning that any further tax rises would add to an already difficult operating environment.
Greater Birmingham businesses also want more investment in transport, skills, innovation and town-center regeneration, alongside greater fiscal devolution so regional leaders can direct funding to local economic priorities.