Based on statistics from the Brighton & Hove Economic Strategy, there are over 16,000 businesses offering more than 140,000 jobs in Brighton. It’s no wonder the city is one of the UK’s most thriving business hubs. But is it all a coincidence or there’s a pattern as to why most businesses are flourishing in Brighton?
1. The Vibrant Casino Industry in Brighton
One of the major contributors is definitely Brighton’s vibrant casino scene which attracts a lot of people who could be your potential customers. The industry always provides top-tier entertainment, regardless of whether you’re a local or a tourist. You’ll find well established casinos like Grosvenor, Mint, and Rendezvous, and smaller independent gaming joints to meet the high demand. As we all know, casinos come with other needs such as drinks, food and hotel rooms which are separate opportunities all together.
Even though the covid-19 pandemic shook the industry a little bit, land-based casinos are slowly getting back on their feet. Most players opted for top online casinos like Peachy Games, but once the brick-and-mortar casino next to you has its doors open, the authentic thrill players get remains unmatched. At the end of the day, land-based casinos remain a dominant force in the market that a business person can leverage.
2. Support for Start-Ups
Last year, a study undertaken by Informi named Brighton the best place to start a new business. In addition, Lloyd’s Bank also ranked the city high as one of the UK’s start-up centres. But does Brighton deserve all these accolades? The short answer is, yes.
The city supports upcoming businesses through communities such as the Brighton & Hove Chamber of Commerce, Platform 9, the Sussex Innovations Center, and the Natwest Accelerator. These bodies ensure local business owners have access to office space, networking opportunities, and any other support services they might need to suit their needs.
3. Technological Advantage
The UK has seen remarkable progress in the digital sector in the last five years, averaging a growth of up to 40%. Of these technological advancements, Brighton’s share of ICT firms is about four times more than the nation’s average, based on a study by Immerse UK.
That means companies in the city are likely to experience the best of the digital age, fostering a healthy environment for content creation and media production. Not only that, but the city has ranked 4th as the lead provider of ultrafast internet speeds in the UK, having been chosen to test 5G connectivity back in 2018 before the official national roll-out.
4. The Millennial Population
Most of Brighton’s population comprises millennials, who play a major role as the leading contributors to the city’s booming business environment. This is because the generation, also fondly referred to as ‘the side hustlers’, enjoy operating different businesses besides their main work.
BBC News reported this as a millennial trend, with over 37% of people in this bracket doing this to create multiple income channels. With more earnings, the population generates more disposable income, which goes to the businesses in the area, and the cycle continues.
5. No Shortage of Entrepreneurial Talent
If you’re looking for people to partake in your business, be it as staff, marketers, or partners, there’s no shortage of talent in Brighton. The best part is that all companies experience this, regardless of their industry of expertise.
That means you can expect to find professionals in tech, IT, and other digital-native businesses. Not only that, but the city also fosters a nurturing environment for other sectors like drinks and food, with brands like Blend Tea Co. and Brighton Gin and Bird penetrating the Brighton niche and beyond.
Start Your Business and See it Grow in Brighton
With a strong reputation for offering an innovative and dynamic environment for entrepreneurs of all types, Brighton is truly one of the UK’s top business capitals. As seen above, you’ll find all the factors favourable for entrepreneurship, including support, talent, and digital advancements. Casinos are also a major business venture, whether you’re offering the services or taking advantage of them. If we go by the stats and facts, then the odds of your business thriving in Brighton are pretty good!
