Gloucester has enjoyed the second highest rise in private sector jobs in the UK – according to figures from the Financial Times.
Private sector jobs growth of 5.5 per cent in 2014-15 outstripped even London.
But the city’s success in generating private sector employment came as little surprise to Angus Taylor, Head of the Commercial Team at Bruton Knowles’ Gloucester HQ.
He said: “Gloucestershire’s recovery has encompassed long awaited refurbishments for major destinations such as Gloucester Quays – but it has also provided the vital spark for thousands of start-ups and SMEs – the lifeblood of any local economy.
“The Gloucester region has an enviable record as a nursery for start-ups and for small firms which have survived their first year and are still going strong – and which have helped drive this striking growth.
“As a region we have always been at the forefront of innovative engineering and manufacture and our vibrant and dynamic employers are world leading exporters.
“Many have successfully adapted from the global recession and changes in the oil and aerospace industries to innovate new products and develop new markets for their sales.
“We have a strong track record in not only surviving but thriving in such challenging environments, as these recent statistics now demonstrate.”
Angus Taylor said Gloucestershire had also benefitted from the surge in internet shopping leading to increased demand for storage and distribution facilities with good transport connections.
And companies like Stroud-based Ecotricity had set a fantastic example for local businesses prepared to Think Big.
“Ecotricity’s success demonstrates that where there is a will there is a way, with green energy now a real, viable alternative for homes and businesses.”
Bruton Knowles has moved to larger premises at Olympus House in Gloucester and has just opened another office in Worcester – reflecting a sustained recovery in the region.
Angus Taylor said: “Five years ago few developers were bringing sites forward and business demand had hit rock bottom. Commercial developers and homebuilders had all but shut up shop in the hope of seeing out the worst recession since the war.
“But as we move into 2017 Gloucestershire is up and running once more. From large, quality warehouse space at Quedgeley or Gloucester Business Park, to the popular Cheltenham Trade Park, businesses needing first rate logistics have plenty of choice.
“Many of our SMEs will be planning to move in to a new commercial property or upscale their operations in 2017 – adding further momentum to the local employment market.
“With our in-depth knowledge and a team of experienced, resourceful surveyors Bruton Knowles are able to provide growing businesses – both large and small – with the very best commercial property advice.”
