Birkenhead a hotspot for fast-growth businesses

BIRKENHEAD has the second-highest concentration of fast-growing companies in the UK, according to a new report.

Research undertaken by the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts, tracked the number and type of companies that had increased in employment over the past three years. Each company had to achieve 20% employment growth for three consecutive years to qualify.

Birkenhead finished second only to Aberdeen in the survey and was found to have a higher concentration of fast-growth firms than major conurbations, with 12% of companies in the town reaching the 20% growth threshold over the past three years.

The Contact Company, founded by Asif Hamid, has been highlighted as one of the most prominent, with its sales forecasts and workforce set to double this year. Also credited was the £4.5 billion Wirral Waters scheme, for which local construction companies are preparing.

Councillor Phil Davies, Wirral Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and planning strategy, said: “This research is great news and shows that our efforts to boost the local economy are paying off. It is a challenging time for businesses and people looking for work, but to have such a high concentration of fast-growing companies in the borough can only be good news.

“The fact that these companies have seen sustained growth over a three year period is excellent news and testament to the support we offer our businesses through Invest Wirral.”

The Contact Company founder, Asif Hamid, said: “We look forward to continuing to grow and offer sustainable, long term employment on the Wirral and attract the type of talent that will secure the economic future of the region.”