Exports dip at York Science Park – but turnover continues to climb
THREE-QUARTERS of businesses at York Science Park (YSP) saw turnover grow last year, but fewer firms exported goods and services.
Figures from the annual UK Science Park Association (UKSPA) survey showed solid performance among companies at YSP. Revenue was up at 75% of tenants, compared to 72% last year.
The proportion of businesses trading abroad fell from 25% in 2014 to 21% in 2015. These firms exported between 5% and 60% of their products internationally.
York Science Park chief executive Tracey Smith said the level of exporting in the complex is “quite stable”, attributing the drop in part to a small number of exporting firms leaving the Park.
But with the looming EU referendum, Ms Smith expressed some concern that businesses could be put off making important decisions – like expanding overseas – in the coming months.
She said: “What worries me the most is the business interruption when questions like this hang over companies. These big questions create uncertainty.
“I hope businesses will continue to make the best decision for their companies regardless of whether we’re in or out.”
The continued growth in business revenue at YSP was reflected in employment levels. Almost two-thirds (61%) of businesses were planning to boost staff numbers, and a further 36% will look to grow their workforce in future.
Ms Smith said the range of sectors represented at YSP – including agri-tech, app development, digital, food research, medical innovation and TV and production companies – showed the strength of the relationship between YSP and the University of York.
Certain sectors, including film and TV, digital and environmental businesses, are seeing a “cluster effect” at the Park as access to the University’s facilities and research attracted similar companies, she said.
Looking ahead, Ms Smith said YSP will continue its work to support businesses. “We have a lot of companies growing, so finding the best solution for that growth is our focus,” she added.
