North West businesses feeling buoyant

According to new survey created as part of its Business Support Series, data from Warrington-based Birchwood Park has revealed that the future is bright for the region, with almost 50% of its occupiers experiencing growth in the last quarter (Q1 Jan to March 2021), and 60% stating they are optimistic about growth for the rest of the year.

The research, conducted with over 100 local Warrington-based businesses at the North’s largest out of town business park – from SMEs to large global organisations spanning a range of industries from accounting and recruitment to engineering and energy – reveals an encouraging trend, with more than a quarter (28%) of local businesses sustaining output, despite experiencing a significant impact on their business due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The news comes as 84% of businesses are predicting a return to some form of ‘normality’ within the next 12 months, with the vast majority expected to return to the workplace in a flexible capacity within six months’ time.

The research has also revealed other positive workplace trends, including an increase in employee focused wellbeing initiatives, with 60% of employees taking learnings from the past 18 months and now taking advantage of popular incentives such as flexible working, access to healthy refreshments, weekly team meets and access to complimentary exercise and treatments.

Martin O’Rourke, Commercial Director at Birchwood Park, said: “There’s no denying that the pandemic has impacted businesses – over the past 18 months being flexible and adaptable has been vital. However, what some may find surprising is that as we acclimatise and move forward through the recovery period, the business outlook is very positive, especially here in Warrington and indeed at Birchwood Park.

“A greater focus on the environment and wellbeing seems to be having a positive impact on businesses, this combined with the benefits of flexible working and of course access to business support, incentives and initiatives such as those provided at Birchwood Park, our occupiers seem to be offering a robust blueprint for future business success across Warrington.”