The chambers represent 50,000 businesses, which the BCC claims employs 6 million people.

During the 19th century, the organisation lobbied regarding a range of issues, including intellectual property law, transport, bankruptcy law, and tariffs, and promoted adopting the metric system.

Post-World War 2, the organisation lobbied for the UK to join the European trade area.

[4] In modern times, the BCC has been regarded as less prominent than its rival, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

[5] In 2023, the organisation set up the Business Council as a rival to the CBI, which had faced a crisis following sexual harassment and assault allegations.