A truly connected county
Ready access to regional airports, docks and the rest of the UK make this a truly connected county.
From Shrewsbury, the centre of Birmingham is under an hour away by train or car; the fastest trains take you to Manchester in just over an hour.
It’s a brilliant base from which to serve regional, national and international clients.
Major companies are already based here
They will tell you that their decision was based on the county’s strategic location, its highly skilled workforce, secure and sustainable infrastructure, affordable and flexible site options, supportive administration.
Hear From Businesses That Have Chosen to Invest Here
Why do businesses choose Shropshire to locate, grow and invest?
Our latest video features Bridgnorth Aluminium and Börger UK sharing their experiences of operating in the county.
Discover the advantages of doing business here, from a strategic location and skilled workforce to a strong business community and excellent quality of life. See why manufacturers continue to invest in Shropshire and build for the future.
Strengths in a number of sectors
One of the proven strengths of the Shropshire economy is our sectors.
From Advanced Manufacturing, Environmental Science and Technologies and Agritech to established and thriving Creative and Food and Drink sectors, Shropshire offers a range of opportunities. These also include emerging Health & Social Care and Construction sectors and a vibrant and active Business, Professional & Financial Services community.
A skilled workforce
In Shropshire 44.8% of 16-64 year olds have NVQ Level 4 or above and amd our economic activity rate is 80.4% compared to 78.6% in the UK and 77.5% in the rest of the West Midlands.
Companies report that staff turnover is low and there are high levels of commitment and willingness to engage in training and upskilling.
Shropshire is committed to supplying a skilled workforce to meet the current and future needs of employers and drive innovation, improve productivity and create wealth.
Why Shropshire?
“It is a thriving place to live, work, visit, learn and invest in.
Shropshire has a unique ability to champion independent businesses whilst still having room for larger businesses to prosper.”
Beth Heath, Director of Fun for Shropshire Festivals & Shropshire Thinktank
Substantial investment in digital infrastructure
Fast, reliable broadband connectivity is pivotal for every modern business.
Ensuring that all businesses have access to superfast broadband remains a key strategic priority for the Council, particularly in realising the full economic benefits.
Enjoy a lifestyle that is second to none!
How can ambitious businesses attract and retain top talent in a market where skills will always be at a premium?
A key factor will always be the quality of life they can offer their workforce, current and future – and Shropshire has this in abundance.
An area rich in natural beauty
Part of the West Midlands, Shropshire is set on the border with Wales, bounded by Cheshire to the North and Herefordshire to the South: an area rich in natural beauty, studded with bustling, attractive market towns and picturesque villages.
Make your home here…
House prices are below the national average. From trendy town centre apartments to spacious country manor houses, characterful village cottages to detached town houses, there’s a wide range of different housing types and sizes to suit all needs and budgets.
Strong educational resources
These are critical for every employer – whether to recruit bright young talent, train and upskill a workforce or to persuade existing or prospective employees to locate here. We also have excellent links between schools and colleges through our Career Enterprise Advisor Network.
Excellent schools and colleges
Strong local education resources are critical for every employer – whether to recruit bright young talent, train and upskill a workforce or to persuade existing or prospective employees to locate here.
Shropshire has excellent schools and colleges. Local schools outperform the UK average – with some State schools achieving superb results.
Pictured left: North Shropshire College.
Fascinating facts about Shropshire
Not only is Shropshire a first-choice location for enterprise and one of England’s few remaining rural idylls, but it is also a county with a rich historical, architectural, geological, botanical and sporting past. For instance, did you also know that…