Overview
Na h-Eileanan Siar, a region with a diverse business landscape, shows significant activity in various sectors. This report provides an analytical overview of its economic and business environment, highlighting key aspects such as employment, sector dynamics, company trends, and director demographics.
Employment and Business Growth
- Total Employees: 3,928. There’s been a notable rise in employment, with 77 companies reporting increased staff numbers. This growth is significant for the region, indicating an active and expanding labor market.
- Percentage Employee Growth: 10.87%. This healthy growth rate suggests a robust economic environment conducive to business expansion and new employment opportunities.
- Number of Scale-ups: 4. These businesses are crucial for regional economic development, as they typically contribute disproportionately to job creation and innovation.
Sector Dynamics
- Top Sectors: The leading sectors by company count are Professional, Scientific & Technical Activities (17.52%), Retail Trade/Repair of Motor Vehicles and Motorcycles (11.29%), and Accommodation & Food Service Activities (9.35%). These sectors reflect the region’s diverse economic base.
- Top Sectors with Employee Growth: Notable growth sectors include Food and Drink Processors, Other Retail Outlets, Fishing, and Agriculture & Farming.
Company Trends
- Total Number of Companies: 1,187, indicating a vibrant business ecosystem.
- New Companies in 2 Years: 192. This demonstrates an entrepreneurial spirit and a conducive environment for start-ups.
- Total SMEs: 987. SMEs form the backbone of the region’s economy, supporting local employment and community development.
- Exporters: 14. This number, though modest, is vital for the regional economy, bringing in external revenue and diversifying business risks.
- Companies with Foreign Parentage: 2. This indicates some level of international investment or collaboration.
- Number of Fundraisings: 4. Fundraising events are essential for business growth, especially for start-ups and scale-ups.
- Patent Owners: 0. Indicates current focus areas in regional business activities may not be heavily innovation-driven in terms of patentable technologies.
- Number of Grantees: 3. Grants are crucial for supporting business innovation and development.
Business Continuity
- Company Cessations: 67. While cessations are a normal part of the business life cycle, this figure should be considered in the context of new company formations and overall company growth.
Director and Founder Demographics
- Percentage of Female Founders: 28.57%. This shows a meaningful participation of women in the entrepreneurial landscape.
- Percentage of Male Founders: 71.43%.
- Percentage of Female Directors: 31.62%, indicating progressive inclusion in leadership roles.
- Percentage of Male Directors: 65.56%.
- Age Distribution of Directors: A significant portion of directors are over 60 (38.08%), followed by those in the 50-60 age range (27.01%). Younger directors (under 30) constitute about 3.05% of the total, highlighting an experienced leadership demographic.
Conclusion
Na h-Eileanan Siar demonstrates a dynamic and diverse economic environment, with significant activities in various sectors, and a robust growth in employment. The region shows a healthy mix of SMEs and new businesses, indicating a fertile ground for entrepreneurship and business expansion. The involvement of women in leadership roles is noteworthy, contributing positively to the business ecosystem. However, the region shows scope for enhancing innovation and attracting more international investment.