‘Strengthening belief in the huge economic potential of the region’ is a key aspect of Bidwells’ recently-published ‘Branding the CAMKOX Arc’ report on the emerging ‘Oxford-Cambridge Corridor’.
While the report emphasises the global research and development capabilities of both Oxford and Cambridge, there are also various ‘nods’ to the strength of SMEs right across the ‘Corridor’.
The report reads: ‘The challenge for the Arc’s partners is to find a brand proposition that harnesses the two university cities’ appeal, but also articulates the wider region’s attributes.
‘This provides benefits to the region’s other locations, including the deep and entrepreneurial business base which partners perfectly with the Oxbridge institutions and brand.’
Oxfordshire currently boasts one of the highest five-year business survival rates anywhere in England and Wales, at 48.6% between 2010 and 2016 (ONS report - November 2017).
Last month, our chief executive, Nigel Tipple took part in the Oxford-Cambridge Corridor Economic Growth Conference and – ahead of the event – Mr Tipple spoke about how the ‘Corridor’ offered major productivity potential, including its combined SME community.
He said: ‘Leveraging our two internationally-renowned cities – on a global scale – will support us to make the most of what the region has to offer in terms of growth and productivity, but so is the need to emphasise the ‘place potential’ offered right across the Corridor, ensuring that UK PLC can capitalise on all the economic strengths of the region’
The emergence of the ‘Corridor’ will be up for discussion at next week’s Breakfast Q&A event, centred around, ‘How can Oxfordshire businesses make an impact – nationally and internationally – by embracing innovation?’.
To find out more, and to sign up for your free ticket to the event on Tuesday 10 July, click here.
