Guildford: A top spot to start your business

Choosing a location can be crucial when starting your own company. Good transport links, thriving economy and access to skilled workers are all key aspects to contemplate. So, with all that in mind, where is the best place to set up shop?

Surrey success

A recent study by energy experts Utility Bidder has crowned Guildford in Surrey as the best area outside of London for starting a business in England.

The town secured the top spot with an impressive 9.14 out of 10, just ahead of West Oxfordshire and Stratford-upon-Avon, which were tied at 8.98. This was due to a number of reasons, such as proximity to London and its educated workforce.

Local links

Guildford’s strong transport links make it a prime location. Direct trains to London are convenient for attending meetings and events – taking as little as half an hour to get to the capital. Equally you can easily travel to other big towns and cities like Portsmouth, Southampton and Reading. As well as great connections to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

Willing workforce

Another reason listed is Guildford’s highly educated workforce. Many of which likely studied at the town’s own University of Surrey. This coupled with plentiful office space, allows organisations to expand their team and workspace amongst the thriving economy.

Rigid roots

At Stag Print we’re big fans of Guildford having been here since 2008 – over 16 years! This has given us strong roots within the town, regularly supporting local establishments and people. We also have many customers from in and around the town including GlucoRX, Eurosurgical, Navien and Vapouriz. And, we’re proud supporters of local mental health charity Oakleaf.

We regularly make use of the transport links, with the team travelling into London and further afield for exhibitions and meetings. This combination of local foundations and accessibility makes Guildford an excellent spot not just for Stag Print, but for any business looking to thrive.

Consider Guildford

With its many advantages, Guildford has established itself as an ideal region for start-ups. It’s particularly recognised for its links to successful sectors such as gaming, professional services, education, and home to several multinational household name companies like Colgate-Palmolive and Unilever. It offers a balance of all the resources budding entrepreneurs need to grow and succeed. For companies like us, it offers more than just statistics – it’s the foundation of long-term success. So, if you’re considering starting a new venture, maybe explore Guildford as a worthy setting. We highly recommend it! 😊