Overview
Stroud’s economic landscape is characterised by a diverse mix of sectors, with a significant presence in professional, scientific, technical activities, and trade. Notably, sectors such as clean energy generation and educational services are emerging as growth areas. The city shows a healthy mix of young and mature companies, with a notable gender gap in leadership roles.
Employment and Business Growth
- Total Employees: Stroud has 51,216 employees. The employment landscape has been dynamic, with a 6.27% growth, indicating a robust job market.
- Companies with Increased Employment: 57 companies reported increased employment, signaling positive business expansion.
- Top Sectors by Number of Companies:
- Professional, scientific, and technical activities: 1,428 companies (18.84%).
- Wholesale and retail trade/repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles: 894 companies (11.80%).
- Others include Construction, Information and Communication, and Administrative Support.
- Emerging Sectors: Clean energy generation and educational services are among the sectors showing growth, indicating a shift towards sustainable and knowledge-based industries.
Business Continuity
- Company Cessations: Stroud witnessed the cessation of 7,644 companies, which could indicate market consolidation or shifts in economic trends.
- New Companies (Last 2 Years): 1,399 new companies were established, demonstrating entrepreneurial activity and economic renewal.
- SMEs and Exporters: The presence of 6,020 SMEs and 269 exporters suggests a strong backbone of small and medium-sized enterprises contributing to local and international markets.
- Foreign Parent Companies: With 80 companies having foreign parentage, Stroud’s business environment is moderately influenced by global entities.
Innovation and Technology
- Patent Owners and Grantees: The presence of 405 patent owners and 4 grantees in Stroud indicates an environment conducive to innovation and research.
- Scaleups: The presence of 41 scaleups shows a healthy startup ecosystem transitioning to more mature business stages.
Leadership and Diversity
- Gender Diversity in Founders and Directors:
- Founders: 18.52% female, 76.54% male.
- Directors: 29.38% female, 67.14% male. This highlights a gender gap in leadership roles within the business community.
- Age Distribution of Directors: A diverse age range, with the highest percentage (32.42%) being directors over 60 years old.
Conclusion
Stroud’s economy is diverse and growing, with significant activities in professional services and emerging sectors like clean energy. While the business landscape is dynamic and innovative, challenges in gender diversity and company cessations require attention for sustainable growth.