Record Number of New Companies Created in Guildford

Published on: 3 Aug, 2012
Updated on: 20 Aug, 2012

Guildford has seen a record number of new companies set up during the first half of 2012 according to research carried out by leading company formation agent, Duport.co.uk.

440 new companies were formed, more than any other first half year on record, and a improvement on the significant improvement on the 424 that were set up during the same period in 2011. The number of new companies is an encouraging sign in a difficult economic climate, and could be due to the pro-active approach the city is taking towards attracting new business.

One of the key objectives in the most recent Sustainable Community Strategy Delivery Plan (published by Guildford Local Strategic Partnership) is that more businesses will be based in the Borough. It promises to facilitate new businesses by providing “start-up” premises, assistance and information to potential entrepreneurs.

The plan states that it will establish “a pro-active programme of marketing to attract inward investment” and places emphasis on “providing opportunities for investment, supporting significant business clusters, ensuring the availability of land and premises, providing a planning system that supports business formation, development and growth and ensuring that there is sufficient housing stock to meet the needs of the local workforce.”

Derek Corden of the Guildford Business Forum said: “This report by Duport is very encouraging news. Guildford Borough Council have been working hard to promote the town as a centre of excellence and all those involved in the Guildford Business Forum support the desire to see a more pro-active Local Borough Council.

“New businesses are the engine room for growth and the future success of the town. The town truly does offer any business a fantastic working environment with great communications via road, rail and air to the rest of the Country, London and overseas.This is backed up by a town environment that we believe is second to none and sport, leisure and retail facilities that rival most large cities.

“Historically Guildford has rested on its laurels but we are seeing plenty of signs that there is a desire to make Guildford a really special place. Long may this attitude continue and long may companies realise why they should be here.”

Council Leader Tony Rooth (Con Pilgrims) said: “These figures are very good news for Guildford and Guildford business, especially during these very depressed economic times. We remain, I think, the No. 1 non metropolitan competitive area in the UK and there is a very happy relationship between the council and local businesses. Some good examples are creators of computer games, for example Electronic Arts, and those involved in satellite technology at the Research Park. These are in addition, of course, to our existing successful retail sector. I think it shows that Guildford is doing as well, if not better, than most other UK towns.”

Managing Director of Duport.co.uk, Peter Valaitis said: “Guildford has enjoyed a strong start to the year with a record number of new companies being formed. This already successful town is showing signs of increased growth that bode well for the future.” The record number of new businesses set up so far this year shows Guildford is a town that is remaining resilient in the face of tough economic conditions.