Nottingham has been a commercial centre and regional capital for thousands of years and its industry has at least a 400-year tradition. Business, commerce and industry have been fundamental to the area’s growth. This mature business background is reflected in the variety and quality of manufacturing companies, the scope of service industry and the attitudes of Nottingham people.

Boots

In 1874, Jesse Boot entered the "proprietary medicine business". His legacy, Boots The Chemists, now dispenses 58 million prescriptions every year from over 1100 stores. Around 15 million people shop at Boots every week. The company’s head quarters is located in Nottingham and employs around 10,000 staff.

• Boots

Raleigh Cycles

When financier Frank Bowden decided to take up cycling to improve his health, he went to Raleigh Street, Nottingham, where he found 12 men in a small workshop producing three cycles a week. Bowden then decided to buy the workshop and the Raleigh Cycle Company was founded.

Derby International purchased the company in 1987 from Tube Investments and the company continues to produce at least 1 million cycles each year.

• Raleigh Bikes

Highfields is home to 50 hi-tech companies, many having grown out of academic research at Nottingham University.

When Highfields was built, a time capsule was buried in 1984 containing football and theatre programmes, a video and a copy of George Orwell’s 1984. There was also a message from the Sheriff of Nottingham - complete with a miniature arrow.

• Highfields Science Park

East Midlands Conference Centre

The East Midlands Conference Centre is known in the region as a corporate convention facility and holds the title of Best Purpose Built Venue in Nottinghamshire. With the impressive facilities and the support of the Conference Centre's professional and dedicated staff, highly successful events are guaranteed. The EMCC works with each individual conference organiser to identify their particular needs and transform early thoughts and ideas into memorable conferences and events.

• East Midlands Conference Centre

See also:

• Economic Development
• Companies in the East Midlands
• Business and Economy in Nottingham