Partner Article

How investing in the local community benefits Britain

The power of the community in boosting local economies, and turning around the fortunes of the wider British economy, should not be underestimated. The Government’s creation of Enterprise Zones has proved this point, by actively investing in selected regions around the country and bringing them together as a wider business collective. Indeed, in recent news* the Government is increasing its infrastructure investment by £100 million in select Enterprise Zones. This has highlighted the need for both the Government and enterprises to convene as one whole Great Britain by demonstrating commitment to the local communities across the nation.

Invest locally, benefit nationally

As a business, the more you invest in the local economy, the more you stand to gain. Businesses are an accountable and responsible part of economic progression and the wider economy – a principle that has remained at the heart of our business operations at Comtek over the years, and has contributed highly to our success. At Comtek, we fuelled the campaign for Wales to achieve its esteemed Enterprise Zone status. We continue to make it our responsibility to ensure that this momentum is not lost. Businesses must unite, not just in Wales, but in the wider British economy, so we both attract new businesses and encourage others to invest in the area.

Alongside this, employee development must play a fundamental part in an organisation’s business strategy. Comtek invests heavily in its employees, and our flourishing apprenticeship scheme is a prime example of how we are investing in the future of our business. By doing so, we are not only retaining talent in Flintshire for the benefit of the local community, but we are also investing in the future of the economy and helping to create our future leaders.

Creating a buoyant economy

As a business leader and one of Wales’ Entrepreneurial Champions, I believe I have a responsibility to the community to be an advocate for the area. But I cannot stand alone, and businesses across the nation need to take responsibility for shaping the leaders of tomorrow, and contributing to entrepreneurial initiatives within each region. Business leaders must work with the Government to close the skills gap, and lead the way as a united force to drive wider economic success.

Many economies are struggling to attract business and retain talent – which is the key to creating economic success on a local and national level. The Government has recognised the value of investing in these Enterprise Zones, but it needs to work more closely with businesses to utilise their expertise, and together they need to take a more responsible outlook to stimulate the success of the local economic climate. Economic development should be led by the business community and supported by the local and national Government, as ultimately this will empower the local community to generate prosperity and growth. The combined local efforts to build on workforces and community initiatives will help to build a more buoyant economy across the country and create opportunities for the future.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Askar Sheibani .