New research rates Cambridge one of the best cities in the UK to open a business

21 October 2015

Cambridge is one of the best locations in the UK to start up a small business, according to research compiled by AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians). The city rated highly because it was found to have the least number of small businesses failing and a large number of high growth small and medium enterprises.

 

AAT examined information from 64 cities across the UK to determine the best location to start a business in, cross referencing data from seven key criteria including the density of small and medium sized businesses in an area, quality of broadband connectivity, the amount of small business closures, and even pollution levels.

Other cities in the top 20 include Brighton, Leicester, Bristol, Aberdeen and Blackburn. London made it to number nine on the list; however, the capital’s high number of small business closures, middling broadband speeds and astronomic property prices make Cambridge a more attractive place to start a business.

Best cities to start a business in the UK

  1.  Brighton
  2.  Cambridge
  3.  Leicester
  4.  Worthing
  5.  Reading
  6.  Bristol
  7.  Aldershot
  8.  Crawley
  9.  London
  10.  Derby
  11.  Northampton
  12.  Coventry
  13.  Bournemouth
  14.  Aberdeen
  15.  Blackburn
  16.  Portsmouth
  17.  Oxford
  18.  Southend
  19.  Rochdale
  20.  Nottingham


AAT Chief Executive Mark Farrar said: “Although many people would automatically think of London as the best place in the UK to start a business, this research shows that there may be better locations to find success. The opportunities and facilities available in Cambridge make it an extremely attractive place to invest in.”

The data used in this study covers statistics from 2013 – 2014 and is collated from the following sources.

  • The Office of National Statistics – SME start-ups, SME closures, SME density, high growth SMEs
  • Ofcom – Superfast broadband penetration rate
  • Land Registry/Scottish Neighborhood Statistics - House Prices
  • The Department of Energy and Climate Change - CO2 Emissions
  • Data collation – Center for Cities

About AAT
AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) is the UK’s leading qualification and professional body for vocational accountants. We offer a range of qualifications, like the AAT Accounting qualification that provides a non-degree route into chartered accountancy. These are open to all regardless of previous qualifications or age. From Accounts Assistant to Chief Financial Officer, AAT members can be found at every level of the profession. AAT is sponsored by the chartered accountancy bodies within the UK - CIPFA, ICAEW, CIMA and ICAS.

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For more information
Jude Obi
[email protected]



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