Business Is Booming

That’s the opinion of Ashford Borough Council’s Economic Development Manager Andrew Osborne, following news that several new companies are relocating to Ashford and three local firms have made it into the top 50 fastest growing companies in Kent.

“There are clear signs that business confidence in Ashford is growing. Sites like Eureka Park provide an ideal location for companies looking to take advantage of the new high speed rail links coming to Ashford in 2009.

“I’m confident Eureka Park and other developments will have a positive impact to Ashford’s economic prosperity. It will enhance Ashford’s reputation as a commercial business centre alongside the redevelopment and significant investment to the town centre.” Mr Osborne concluded.

Accountancy firm Additus, originally from West Malling and Commidea, a credit card processing firm from Maidstone are among a number of companies moving from further West of the county to Eureka Park in Ashford.

Tristram Gethin, Director of Quadrant Estates said: “With plenty of demand for commercial property, we believe Ashford is rapidly developing into a significant business location. The interest will create potential for a number of new job opportunities for local people and give a boost to the local economy”.

Simon Wilding, Managing Director of Commidea said: “Close links to Europe and the fact that Ashford is one of the fastest growing towns in the South East supports Commidea’s strategy for growth.”

Ashford public relations agency DTW Vavasour recently celebrated its first Birthday since moving to the town a year ago. The company says the past 12 months have been very successful since it moved from Canterbury, with staff numbers increasing by 40 per cent and a string of new clients. Managing Director Charlie Vavasour said: “The move to Ashford has certainly paid off for us.”

Last week three Ashford companies Toyota dealer Motorline (4), road haulage specialists Eurologistics UK (12) and hospital IT providers Adastra Software (23) made it into the top 50 fastest growing companies in the county. All three had more than doubled their growth.

The MegaGrowth 50 table details Kent and Medway’s fastest growing private-owned businesses over the past four years and was carried out by Bureau van Dijk’s Fame database in June 2007.

Media Release 0325/07
10/10/2007