Business
There are currently over 230 000 people employed in the Thames Gateway
South Essex economy, with an ambitious target of 55 000 additional jobs
to be created by 2021. Around 55 000 people commute to London every
day, but in return over 70 000 commute into the area to work.
Employment rates are high, but there is a significant amount of part
time and low value work in sectors such as retail and distribution.
South Essex is home to global brands including Unilever, Olympus and
Ford, as well as locally grown companies like Musto. All of them are
characterised by a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.
New opportunities exist in medical devices, automotive and aviation
engineering, environmental technologies and logistics.