With 1,995 enterprises (a 11.3% increase in business formation since 2010), employing over 18,000 people, tourism is a vital part of the Coastal West Sussex economy and is one of the UK’s leading tourist destinations.
Our area offers high-end visitor attractions and it is also a popular family holiday destination with excellent sandy beaches and great facilities.
With the South Downs National Park on its doorstep, there are excellent opportunities for businesses involved in the visitor economy.
Each year, tourism brings more almost £1bn to the local economy, providing around 18,000 jobs and supporting numerous local businesses in the supply chain.
Butlin’s in Bognor Regis attracts over 300,000 visitors every year and, as a signatory to the Arun Business & Developer Charter actively seeking to recruit staff and procure services locally.
Goodwood is one of the UK’s great sporting venues, annually hosting the Festival of Speed and Glorious Goodwood, one of the most important fixtures in the UK horse-racing calendar.
There are major theatres in Chichester and Worthing and festivals covering a range of themes throughout the year.
To raise awareness of West Sussex to new visitor markets, Experience West Sussex is an exciting digital platform showcasing the very best of the area and inspiring more people to visit and stay longer in the area.
“Tourism is important to our region, as not only does it bring visitors to the region which directly boosts the economy, but also ensures that tourism/ seasonal businesses can thrive and grow,” Caroline Wood, director of the Coastal West Sussex Partnership explains.
“If you are a tourism business in West Sussex, or are based elsewhere in the UK or overseas, we can offer advice. From setting up a new operation, to relocating the business, or starting a new enterprise, we will work with you to understand your business requirements, and help connect you to the right contacts and opportunities.”
For further information contact: Caroline.wood@coastalwestsussex.org.uk.
See more from our #ThisIsLiving report here.