Wales is an attractive place for doing business for several compelling reasons:
1. Innovation and Technology
Wales has a strong focus on innovation and technology, with a burgeoning tech sector.
It hosts various tech hubs and research centers, fostering a conducive environment for startups and tech-driven enterprises.
For instance, the development of the Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult in South Wales has propelled advancements in this cutting-edge field.
2. Skilled Workforce
The Welsh workforce is highly skilled and diverse, offering a wide range of talent across various industries.
The presence of leading universities, such as Cardiff University and Swansea University, ensures a steady stream of skilled graduates in fields like engineering, sciences, and business.
3. Government Support and Incentives
The Welsh government actively supports businesses through a range of incentives and grants.
Schemes like the Development Bank of Wales and the Wales Business Fund provide financial assistance, aiding in business growth and expansion.
4. Strategic Location
Wales’ strategic location within the UK provides easy access to major markets in Europe and the rest of the UK. Its proximity to major cities like London and excellent transportation infrastructure, including ports and airports, facilitates both national and international trade.
- Quality of Life: Wales offers an exceptional quality of life, attracting professionals seeking a better work-life balance. The picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and lower cost of living compared to some other parts of the UK make it an appealing place to live and work.
- Strong Economic Sectors: Wales boasts diverse economic sectors, including advanced manufacturing, life sciences, renewable energy, and creative industries. This diversification mitigates risks associated with reliance on a single industry, offering stability and opportunities for businesses in various fields.
- Supportive Business Environment: The Welsh government actively fosters a supportive business environment. Initiatives like Business Wales provide guidance, mentoring, and resources for entrepreneurs and small businesses, aiding in their development and sustainability.
- Renewable Energy Focus: Wales has a growing emphasis on renewable energy, particularly wind and tidal power. With ambitious targets for sustainable energy production, there are substantial opportunities for businesses involved in clean energy technology and services.
- Cultural Heritage and Tourism: Wales’ rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes attract tourists from around the world. Businesses catering to the tourism industry have ample opportunities to thrive, especially in hospitality, entertainment, and heritage-related services.
- Strong Community Networks: Welsh communities have a strong sense of identity and collaboration. This environment fosters close-knit business networks, making it easier for companies to integrate into local markets and build long-lasting relationships.
These reasons collectively make Wales an appealing destination for businesses seeking a supportive environment, access to skilled talent, and opportunities for growth and innovation.
Further Thoughts
Why Wales
Wales provides numerous business opportunities for several industries, sectors, and products. As part of the UK and as a trading partner with the European Union, Wales also has developing ties with countries including China, Japan, and South Korea.
Wales is equipped with an excellent infrastructure, technological equipment, and highly skilled workforces and with the potential for affordable business premises, compared to some other parts of the UK. With the capital of Wales only 2 hours by train from London and Birmingham, Wales as a business location is certainly a popular place with many national and international businesses.
There are some excellent resources and also funding opportunities in Wales, if you are yourself, interested in setting up in this area.
A great starting point for example can be the Welsh Development Agency (WDA) which is the regional development agency for the country and is backed by the Welsh Government.
This organization will provide those of you interested in setting up or in doing business with Wales, with the necessary information to get you started.
The WDA can even help you identify new markets, provide source financial assistance, supply broker Research, and development opportunities.
Their team will also interact with your business people and the required Welsh institutions to help business flow smoothly. Business Wales is another wonderful resource and is one which is run by the Welsh Government, aimed at helping businesses.
Creative Industries – Media
One extremely interesting option that has developed in Wales over the last 10 years, and in the industry that is developing at pace in this region is the creative industries sector.
By this, I mean TV production, film production, and other media services. Wales seems in recent years to have become a hub of sorts for film, documentary, and media production and development.
This has resulted in a build-up of the skills set in the area for this field of business. You can read an interesting article on this sector on the Wales.com website.