Expert Office Advice

Stats and information for businesses considering relocation to or setting up an office in Croydon.

Croydon is one of the United Kingdom’s largest commercial centres. Situated in South London, Croydon is the most populated London borough. At its centre is the historic town of Croydon from which the borough got its name. Central Croydon boasts of the largest office and retail centre in the south east of England after Central London thereby positioning itself as an important hub for business.

Croydon is the economic capital of the South East priding oneself of international recognition and diverse business interests. Thousands of businesses trade in Croydon and dozens of blue chip companies have their headquarters here. Croydon is a thriving city well on its way to being a business alternative to Central London.

Population
342,700 – mid-year population estimate (2005)
Source: Office for National Statistics (ONS)

Migration, immigration, ethnic diversity, basic population demographics
• 70.2% of the population is white, 11.3% is Asians and 13.3% is black.
• 78.2% were born in the UK, 18.5% outside the EU and 3.3% were born elsewhere in the EU.
• Nearly 27% of the population is under 20 years old.
Source: ONS Census 2001

Unemployment/employment rate
• Employment rate is 72.2%
• Unemployment rate is 7.7%.
Source: ONS Annual Population Survey (July 2005 – June 2006)

Average income/salary
₤479.10 – gross weekly pay
Source: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings Workplace Analysis 2006

Location within the UK and closest major location
• Situated between Central London and the south coast
• Located in the historic county of Surrey

Transport options to and within
• Croydon is well served by a comprehensive rail connection offering direct trains to London stations as well as other major towns and cities across the UK.
• It enjoys access to the national motorway network via the M23 and M25.
• It serves as the principal terminal for an extensive network of bus routes.
• London’s airports are within easy reach with London Gatwick Airport just a mere 30 minute drive.

Closest airports with average distance from town/city centre
• London Heathrow Airport – 16.2 miles
• London Gatwick Airport – 16.5 miles
• London city Airport – 11.7 miles

Dominating sectors/industries
The service industry including financial and business services, retail, health and social work is the largest sector of Croydon’s economy employing 75% of the total workforce. Croydon has the biggest commercial and shopping centre in the South East. It is in the top ten in the national retail centre rankings. High technology manufacturing, information communications technology infrastructure, creative and media and environmental industries are also important growth sectors. The creative industries make up at least 10% of the local economy principally in the areas of printing, publishing, software, advertising and entertainment. Tourism is another significant and growing industry.

Large companies that have headquarters or major branches in the location
• Mott McDonald, Merrill Lynch, HSBC, Direct Line
• Sigma Aerospace, Nestle, Mourant Group, IKEA

Areas that are considered to be prime business locations
• Croydon Gateway
• Park Place
• Coulston Area
• Centrale Shopping Centre

Major or annual business-related events
Business Time is a venue for sourcing new suppliers from the business community and generating customers in Croydon and throughout the South East.

Other
Croydon’s new Tramlink, an environment-friendly tram system, is providing a big boost to existing public transport as well as linking East and West Croydon stations.

Restrictions
• Persons who wish to use mobile vehicles to trade or display goods and services including tables and chairs on the public highways require a license.
• Premises where gambling takes place such as betting shops and bingo halls also require licenses as per Gambling Act 2005.

Special business benefits/dispensations
Businesses in Croydon can receive up to 50% subsidy in trade mission costs making access to international business exposure easier. This grant is available through the Croydon Enterprise programme.

3 best things about the location
• Croydon offers prime business spaces at highly competitive rates.
• It is well known as a major shopping destination.
• Croydon provides a rich and vibrant environment amidst the greenest and most scenic surroundings.

 Comprehensive list of Croydon office space including short term and serviced