Slough Borough Council: Economic Assessment

Economic Assessment - Slough is booming

Slough’s first ever economic assessment has confirmed the health of the Slough economy and its contribution to both the residents of Slough and to UK businesses.

The emerging challenges included the need for a step change in developing the skills of the local population and increasing business start ups.

Key strengths were accessibility, location, access to best skills, access to valuable markets, a high quality supply chain and a competitive and dynamic business environment.

Key highlights of our economy

77,000 jobs
4,600 enterprises
78% of 16 to 65 year olds in work – above national average
Total turnover of £7.5 billion pounds
Output of approximately £2.5 billion
£700 million of output in manufacturing
9,000 jobs in manufacturing
Continued growth in service sector jobs
Growth sectors include telecommunications, biotechnology, consumer electronics, ICT, Auto, business and financial, Pharma and healthcare
Productivity score of 186.65 ranked 3rd in UK outside London (source Local futures state of the nation 2006)
Slough has significant skills deficit – historical factors
Job based salaries £552 above South East and UK average
Resident salaries below UK median £402

Rafiq Chohan, head of economic development, diversity and equality, said: “Slough has so much going for it and these figures just show how successful our town is.

“Not only do we have world class communication links with other cities, but we have access to the best skilled people in the country."