Let’s shout about our business achievements (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Let’s shout about our business achievements

9:23am Tuesday 9th August 2011 in Linda Pollard By Linda Pollard

Our annual celebration of all things Yorkshire took place last week – Yorkshire Day.

As the largest region in the UK, it is home to more than 344,000 businesses and a diverse workforce of more than 2.6 million.

With an £87.1 billion economy, which is set to grow by 22 per cent by 2020, it’s the fastest-growing region in the North.

I believe this Yorkshire pride contributes to the positive way our region is viewed, attracting visitors and business investors alike. As a Yorkshire businesswoman, I praise it wherever I go.

It was a huge motivating factor in getting involved in the work of Yorkshire Forward and continues to be important in both my professional and personal life.

I know that a positive belief in our city and showing off its attributes will help Bradford to grow and prosper. After all, we have a lot to be proud of.

As the fifth largest city in the UK, Bradford has the youngest, fastest-growing population outside of London. This is great news for our business community. Wool and textiles still play an important part in Bradford's economy, but today's fastest-growing sectors include IT, financial services, digital industries, environmental technologies, cultural industries, tourism and retail headquarters and distribution.

Bradford's reputation as a base for high technology, scientific and computer-based industries is growing, building on a long tradition of innovation, high skill levels and quality products.

I say let’s celebrate this and shout about it whenever and wherever possible!