The Devon Business Show was hosted by Devon Chamber of Commerce at the Plymouth Life Centre.
Helen Wylde-Archibald, CEO of Devon Chamber of Commerce, said businesses in the county were “planning for a better future”.
She said: “I think what we just need is that soft touch with the Budget so that businesses get the chance to grow and I think Devon will be right at the front of the pack.”
The government insisted it was “on the side of business” and said easing the cost of doing business was one of the chancellor’s five priorities.
A spokesperson for HM Treasury said: “The chancellor is giving firms the breathing space to invest and grow, with business rates cuts, a cap on corporation tax, £4.3 billion of support to limit bill rises, and employer National Insurance contributions relief when hiring under-21s and apprentices under 25.
“As has always been the case, decisions on tax are a matter for the chancellor to set out at fiscal events, rather than routinely commenting on rumour, speculation or proposals.”
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