Market Research on Key Sectors: Sustainable Futures

Date of the report

January 2015

Author of the report

Regional Observatory – Marketing Birmingham

(SWM was involved as part of the research team)

Purpose of the report

Following the development of a new Corporate Plan, Birmingham City University is looking to develop a vibrant Research and Enterprise Strategy that will actively support the Regional Economy and underpin a robust drive for Research and Enterprise income. Marketing Birmingham, meanwhile, has been successful in its application to DCLG to extend its ‘Investing in the City Region’ ERDF project which seeks to attract new investment and businesses, support the start up and growth of indigenous businesses and create new job opportunities in the Greater Birmingham and Solihull and Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership areas.

This research study is intended to provide a sound evidence base to support these activities, identifying key businesses, the size and scope of the sectors of interest, recent growth trends, niche activities driving growth and the impact of inward investment. It explores key growth drivers and barriers (for example relating to customer trends and drivers and emerging technological innovations), the demand for labour and skills and the key skills challenges that need to be addressed. It then goes on to assess the degree of engagement with Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and identifies potential market opportunities going forward.

What SWM likes

SWM were happy to be part of the research team to support Marketing Birmingham and the Regional Observatory team. This involved promoting the research survey and securing in-depth case study interviews using our networks and members.

The resulting report is very useful and summarises the size and dynamics of the this sector along with growth opportunities. The report highlights the difficulties that many organisations in this sector are facing in relation to recruitment and in addressing skills gaps. It also focusses on the possible opportunities for academic institutions in the provision of relevant training and courses.