It’s almost a cliche at this point but when it comes to starting a business: location, location, location. When it comes down to it, the matter of location can be a critical factor in your success. While major cities like London, Manchester and Birmingham often steal the spotlight, hidden gems like Worcestershire, in the heart of England, have much to offer aspiring entrepreneurs.
From costs to logistics to support frameworks, there’s plenty in the region to make it a serious contender. We explore why Worcestershire is an excellent place to start a small business.
A Thriving Business Community
Worcestershire already boasts a thriving business community. The county is home to a diverse range of industries, from manufacturing and technology to agriculture and healthcare, including many cost-cutting startups. This diversity means that regardless of your business niche, you’re likely to find a supportive ecosystem and useful networking opportunities.
Worcestershire has seen a steady increase in the number of new business registrations and Worcestershire-based businesses have managed to attract serious attention from the biggest lenders over the past few years, reflecting a growing entrepreneurial spirit in the region.
Supportive Legal Environment
Running a business involves various legal considerations, and being at least aware of – if not prepared – for any unforeseen circumstances is essential. This is particularly crucial when it comes to protecting your business from liability claims, for example, accidental injuries sustained by customers or staff. More serious cases like PTSD compensation claims or life-term rehabilitation and care costs can be enough to close a business that isn’t covered legally, whether they can be held liable or not.
Highly-rated insurance and legal support in Worcestershire is readily available, and the area is well-connected, providing peace of mind to a budding entrepreneur. While no one wants to anticipate negative incidents, having the right coverage and legal guidance ensures that your business can weather unexpected challenges, if they arise.
Strategic Location
Worcestershire’s strategic location in the heart of England offers numerous advantages for small businesses. It provides easy access to major cities like Birmingham and London, making it convenient for trade and potential client meetings.
Additionally, the county is well-connected by road, rail, and air, ensuring the transportation of goods and services isn’t going to cost you the earth, or be threatened with delays and wait times. This connectivity significantly reduces logistical challenges, allowing a business to operate smoothly.
Low Overheads and Competitive Costs
Compared to larger urban centres, Worcestershire offers surprisingly low overheads and competitive costs for businesses, largely thanks to its status as a hidden gem in the region. This cost-effectiveness extends to various aspects, including office space, utilities, and employee wages. A recent survey indicated that the cost of living and doing business in Worcestershire sits below the national average, making it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs looking to maximise their budget.
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Access to Skilled Workforce
A key factor in the success of any business is access to a skilled and motivated workforce. Worcestershire benefits from several esteemed universities and educational institutions, ensuring a steady supply of talent across various fields. The region has also witnessed an increase in apprenticeships and training programs, further enhancing the availability of skilled workers for small businesses.
Simply put, Worcestershire’s combination of all these factors; its community, location, cost-effectiveness and skilled workforce makes it an underrated place for small business success. Whether you’re starting a new venture or looking to expand an existing one, Worcestershire offers a welcoming and conducive environment for entrepreneurs to thrive. If you take anything from this, consider the charming Worcestershire as your next destination for entrepreneurial endeavours.
This is a submitted article
