Overview of Southampton's economy

Southampton is the regional capital of England's South Coast and with a population of 221,200 is the largest city in the South East outside London.

The economy, formerly based on traditional manufacturing industries and port-related activities is now more diverse. Companies such as Royal Bank of Scotland, Ford, Philips Semi-conductors, Ordnance Survey, Skandia and Merck have headquarters in the Southampton Region.

Southampton has a strong marine industry. It is the UK's leading vehicle handling and premier cruise port as well as being home to Southampton Oceanography Centre - one the world's leading centres for research and education in marine and earth sciences.

Chilworth Science Park is home to more than 30 science and technology based companies from fledgling enterprises in the Incubator Unit through to businesses that lead the world in the fields of biotechnology, software design, satellite technology and materials research.

To support the growth of knowledge-based businesses the Southampton Enterprise Hub offers access to clear business advice, finance and R&D support.

The University of Southampton and Southampton Solent University together have a student population of over 31,000. Each year approximately 6,000 graduates enter the labour market, with about 30% staying within the Southampton area to seek career opportunities. This gives the Region's employers access to a large pool of graduate labour including specialist areas such as marine science, bio-technology, eletronic engineering, medical sciences, opto-electronics, law and social services.

The city has excellent communication links that contribute to developing the local economy. Southampton Airport has regular flights to UK and major European cities. Heathrow and Gatwick Airports are easily accessible by road and rail. The M3/M27 interchange provides access to the national motorway network bringing the M25 within a 45 minute drive.