About BCFI
An independent forum for British business and consumer insight
The British Consumer & Business Forum brings together business expertise, consumer insight and original research to inform public discussion of the issues shaping British business and everyday life.
Why we exist
Considered perspectives, grounded in evidence
Decisions affecting British consumers and businesses are increasingly debated in public, at speed and often with limited evidence. Those most affected — households, business owners, employees — are not always well served by that discussion.
BCFI was established to provide a measured contribution. By combining original consumer and business research with the practical experience of people who work in the sectors concerned, we aim to help journalists, policymakers and the public understand what is happening, and why.
We do not regard the interests of consumers and businesses as opposed. Trust, fair dealing and good service benefit both, and our work examines the conditions in which they flourish.
Mission & objectives
To bring independent insight and informed perspectives to the issues that shape British business and consumer life.
- 01
Inform
To contribute original research and evidence to public discussion of the issues affecting British consumers and businesses.
- 02
Convene
To bring together business leaders, specialists and informed contributors whose experience adds depth to that discussion.
- 03
Interpret
To explain developments in markets, regulation and consumer behaviour clearly and without exaggeration.
- 04
Contribute
To offer measured perspectives to policymakers, the media and the wider public.
Our approach
A commitment to independent insight
The principles that govern our research and our contribution to public discussion.
- Independence
- BCFI determines its own research questions and conclusions. Our perspectives are formed through evidence and expert judgement, and we are transparent about how our work is produced.
- Rigour
- Our research is designed and reported with care. We publish methodology alongside findings, state sample sizes and fieldwork dates, and distinguish clearly between evidence and opinion.
- Balance
- We recognise that the interests of consumers and businesses are closely connected. Our work seeks to understand both, rather than to advocate for one at the expense of the other.
- Clarity
- We aim to be useful. That means presenting findings plainly, avoiding overstatement and making our research accessible to those who rely upon it.
Our network
Business leaders, specialists and contributors
BCFI’s work is informed by a network of business leaders, industry specialists and subject-matter experts. They contribute research input, commentary and perspective drawn from their professional experience.
Contributors participate in a personal capacity. Their views are their own, and where they hold relevant professional interests we say so.
Our data partners
Organisations that support BCFI’s research programme with data and insight.
- Skubl
- Cartnio