Bristol Business Opportunities

Bristol is the biggest city in the South-West of England and the city's location provides for an interesting trade route into Devon and Cornwall, Avon and Somerset and across for Wales. The centrality of Bristol and also its access via the main rail links, its own international airport and access to the motorway system, makes it clear why this city acts as a very good potential hub for many businesses. Much cheaper than London and yet still very accessible and with a population of over half a million, Bristol is certainly worthy of consideration if you are looking to set up a business in the UK.

Many large companies have set up shop in the area, a few notable and sizeable companies including with:

• BAE Systems
• RAC Head Office
• Rolls Royce
• Axa Insurance
• The Ministry of Defense
• Royal Bank of Scotland offices

Renting an office in Bristol

As with any major city, the consideration of course comes down to if you wish to pay a higher rate for a prime location if your brand depends on it, or if you are happy to work from an industrial park. There are numerous industrial style parks dotted around Bristol including the Almondsbury area, Filton and the Temple Meads Area. There tend also to be plenty of opportunities to rent office space in the city centre although be prepared for the rental prices. You can find up-to-date options on Rightmove.

Setting up a Business

Compared to setting up a company in a country such as France, Spain or Italy, the UK is incredible simple for getting started. Within a matter of 48 hours you can set up a limited company by first calling HRMC and registering your new business (see the HRMC site for new business page for exact information). Secondly find a local accountant and inform him/her that you wish to set up a Limited company (or as a sole trader of you prefer) and there will be a few forms but again, the process is very simple. The process does of course depend on the size of the company and structure, if you have different share-holders and directors, but if you are starting off very small, the process is then very straight-forward.

Where to be Based for Prestige

If location and prestige are vital to your business, if you are for example an art dealer, high-end fashion store or trendy bar, areas such as Whiteladies Road, Clifton and Park Street tend to be the main areas which you might first want to look at in the city.

Importing and Exporting

If you are a haulage business who are looking to import or export to and from the Bristol area, we are happy to talk with you about eh possibilities. We have been involved with freight and shipping and have many years experience in dealing with countries worldwide from our Bristol base.

Written by Bob Feltham

Return to Articles page.