Into Somerset celebrates a successful 2011

Jan. 5, 2012 - PRLog -- Into Somerset’s Inward Investment Manager, Gerard Tucker, has handled 76 serious investment enquiries between January and December 2011, with interest coming from businesses based both in the UK and overseas. A total of 14 of these companies have already invested in Somerset, with around 300 projected jobs being created once their investments are complete.

As businesses look to become smarter and leaner, saving money wherever possible in order to help them beat the recession, Somerset’s key selling points – including low commercial property prices, good transport links and excellent connectivity – tick all the boxes.

Cole Henley moved his web design and development company, TINY v, from Scotland to Frome, Somerset in late 2011. He explained, “I contacted Into Somerset in July when we decided to formally investigate moving south. We were fortunate that we had sold our house in Scotland quite quickly but this meant that we had to make a lot of rapid decisions about where we wanted to move to. Gerard from Into Somerset was really helpful. He replied quickly and comprehensively to all my queries and was extremely useful in pointing out local amenities, particularly suggesting the co-working space at the Old Church School where I am now based.

“What I was impressed with was the range and scope of help that was offered – from recommending removal companies for our epic relocation south, to offering links to local schools, to suggesting online discussion groups covering local business. Into Somerset proved invaluable when moving my business. Since my first contact in July they constantly impressed with a friendly service and comprehensive advice, helping make the transition as smooth as possible.”

Another 2011 inward investor, Hit Training, had decided to set up a dedicated team of Assessor/Trainers in Somerset to deliver Hospitality Apprenticeships across the county following a period of substantial growth.  When looking for a suitable office space, their priorities were to be close to major transport routes, have adequate parking and the opportunity to rent or hire extra space and meeting rooms. Despite speaking to several agents, trawling websites and registering their intent on relevant sites, they found that suitable space was difficult to come by. They then received a phone call from Gerard at Into Somerset, offering to help with their search.  

Ginny Reeves, Area Manager at Hit Training, said, “ Following a discussion about our business and requirements, we were amazed at how quickly he found the perfect solution and introduced us to Stephen Ward at Equity House, Blackbrook Business Park. Gerard set up a meeting for us and before the week was out we had secured the perfect office suite for our business. This was in August 2011 and the growth of our business has exceeded our expectations to such an extent that we have just agreed with Stephen to double our office space from February 2012.

“We would not have found these premises without Gerard's intervention as they were not advertised on any site or with any agent. Into Somerset gave us the support we needed to bring our business into Somerset and worked with us to ensure our needs were met quickly and effectively.  Thank you Into Somerset!”

Businesses that relocate to Somerset can significantly cut costs by making huge savings on commercial property, which tends to be at least a third cheaper than in London and the South East. In 2010, IT industry giant IBM moved its maintenance and repair centre from Uxbridge to Highbridge, near Bridgwater and the M5 corridor, and as a result IBM saved a massive 45 per cent on building costs – and assured employees an excellent quality of life to boot.

Projects such as the new nuclear build development at Hinkley Point C ensure that Somerset will remain a focus in 2012 for ambitious companies that want to be part of this dynamic county. Meanwhile, renewable energy is also high on the agenda, with Somerset – which is perfectly positioned in the ‘Golden Triangle’ of ideal solar conditions below the M4 corridor – being immensely proud of its status as a green industry pioneer.

Somerset has the highest business start-up rate of any county outside London. Located in the heart of the South West, it is extremely well-connected thanks to its excellent road and rail links, with London only two hours away and a choice of international airports on the doorstep. A recent multi-million pound government investment in Somerset’s superfast broadband connection will ensure that businesses within the county can become even more competitive, adding to its already impressive £9billion economy.

Into Somerset offers a tailored business relocation service, giving advice and information to facilitate the process. To find out more about the many varied opportunities that Somerset can offer, or for advice and guidance on setting up a business in Somerset call on 0845 1222 066 or visit www.intosomerset.co.uk.