Scottish Borders businesses are urging government to invest in skills, workforce development and infrastructure as the region prepares for significant inward investment and job creation opportunities.
Speaking in a recent interview for ITV News ‘Representing Border’, Trevor Jackson, Chair of Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce, described the region as being at a critical “inflection point” with major renewable energy and tourism developments on the horizon, but growing concerns about workforce capacity and business confidence.
Major Investment and Job Opportunities in the Scottish Borders
Several large-scale projects are set to bring substantial economic impact to the Borders, including:
- The proposed Center Parcs development, expected to create around 1,200 jobs
- Renewable energy projects such as Berwick Bank
- Growth in sectors including renewables, electronics, space, and food and drink
These developments represent significant inward investment and long-term growth potential for the region.
However, the key question remains: does the Borders currently have the workforce and skills capacity to fully deliver and benefit from this growth?
Skills and Workforce Challenges
While the region welcomes new businesses and investment, there are concerns about:
- Existing skills gaps
- A limited working-age population
- The need for improved transport connectivity
- Ensuring access to childcare to unlock workforce participation
The Chamber is calling for increased and sustained investment in:
- Further education and colleges
- Lifelong learning and retraining programmes
- Targeted skills development aligned to future projects
- Support to help economically inactive individuals re-enter the workforce
Ensuring that local people can access training and progression opportunities will be critical to keeping economic benefits within the region.
Business Confidence and Cost Pressures
Recent surveys indicate business confidence across the South of Scotland has dipped in recent months. Uncertainty surrounding national budgets, alongside rising operational costs including energy prices and National Insurance contributions, have contributed to caution among employers.
Hospitality businesses in particular continue to face pressure, especially in relation to business rates.
While the Scottish Government has announced over £320 million in transitional relief schemes and retail, hospitality and leisure support over the next three years, businesses are seeking clarity, stability and long-term policy alignment to support investment decisions.
”“We’re seeing green shoots of growth in the Scottish Borders, but targeted investment is essential to help them flourish.”
Trevor Jackson
Driving Innovation, Finance and Future Growth at SBCC Annual Expo and Conference 2026
As the region prepares for significant economic change, events such as SBCC Annual Expo & Conference 2026 will play an important role in supporting Scottish Borders businesses to navigate innovation, investment and future growth.
Taking place later this month, the Expo will bring together businesses, partners and stakeholders to explore key themes including:
- Innovation and emerging sectors
- Access to finance and funding opportunities
- Workforce development and future skills
- Building resilient, future-ready businesses
With major projects on the horizon and supply chain opportunities emerging, the Expo provides a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and practical support to help businesses position themselves for what comes next.
Find out more about SBCC Annual Expo & Conference 2026 here:
https://borderschamber.com/sbcc-expo-2026/
A Pivotal Moment for the Scottish Borders Economy
Despite the challenges, there are signs of optimism. Many businesses across the region continue to innovate, expand into new markets and pursue growth opportunities. The Chamber is actively working to raise the profile of the Scottish Borders nationally and internationally, including exploring trade and inward investment opportunities.
The message from the business community is clear: the Scottish Borders has enormous potential. With the right strategic investment in skills, infrastructure and workforce development, the region can secure sustainable, inclusive growth for the long term.
Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce will continue to work with partners, government and industry to ensure the region is well placed to capitalise on the opportunities ahead.
👉 You can watch the full interview on ITV News here:
https://www.itv.com/news/border/2026-02-04/catch-up-on-representing-border-4th-february-2026
(Interview timings: 11:58–22:28)
