“Leeds is very strong in terms of the quality of advice it can give to businesses... It’s got a tight business community. Leeds is focused in terms of people talking to each other and trying to make things happen”
Colin Fell, partner King Sturge
Kirklees
Kirklees has the third largest economy in the city region and is home to around 13,700 businesses, including a number of world class manufacturing companies such as Cummins (formerly Holset Engineering), Syngenta and Avecia (formerly ICI), Fox’s Biscuits and Carlton Cards.
The district is also home to the head offices of Mamas and Papas, Bonmarché and Instore Plc. Currently the largest industry groups in business terms are wholesale/retail and financial and business services.
Huddersfield is the largest town in Kirklees with approximately 154,000 residents and the second largest retail centre in the city region.
Dewsbury is the district’s second largest town; it’s around 10 miles from central Leeds and has direct rail and road links with the city.
The University of Huddersfield has a significant presence in the town and beyond, and is a key player in the development of Huddersfield’s media and creative sector and the expansion of the local knowledge economy.