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Birmingham city centre’s Enterprise Zone (EZ) has been recognised in the Global Free Zones of the Year 2018 rankings by fDi magazine – an international inward investment title, and division of the Financial Times.
The EZ, which is overseen by the Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP, was recognised in three areas. It is ranked the top global free zone for its support for the business, financial and professional services (BPFS) sector. It also won recognition for its infrastructure upgrades – and the relocation service provided for businesses moving into the EZ. All of the support packages offered by the EZ are designed to attract more companies into Birmingham.
Tim Pile, Chair of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, commented:
“Birmingham’s EZ has become a key factor in securing more global investment for this region. It has helped Greater Birmingham to win recognition for its FDI strategy, which is ranked as one of the best in Europe.
“Tailored to key sectors including the business, professional and financial services industry, the EZ offers specialist space that enables Greater Birmingham to remain an internationally competitive place to live and work. Our unique relocations service is helping to attract and support talented staff from across the world. The arrival of cutting-edge infrastructure – such as the HS2 high-speed rail line, 5G test beds and West Midlands Metro extension – is building a connected, forward-thinking destination where businesses can thrive.”
fDi’s rankings acknowledge the most promising free zones worldwide, which offer an array of opportunities, incentives and facilities for businesses to relocate and grow. Nearly 80 entries were received from across the globe. This is the third consecutive year in which Birmingham’s EZ has been recognised in the rankings.
To see the full report, click here.