The United Kingdom is an excellent launchpad for business development, even for immigrants and refugees. Locals know what’s in demand in Liverpool and look for opportunities on their doorstep. But those who have left countries like Ukraine or Russia can also find ways to earn a living, especially if they have start-up capital. So, what types of businesses are popular? And why has Liverpool become such a magnet for entrepreneurs? We’ll explore these questions at liverpool1.one.
Small Business Opportunities in Liverpool – The Authorities Offer Support
First and foremost, it’s worth noting that small businesses receive active support from the Liverpool authorities. This wasn’t always the case, as we know from challenging times like the crisis years of the 1980s. But things are different now. For example, there are several initiatives:
- Business Support Service – a programme aimed at supporting entrepreneurs and fostering business growth in the city.
- Liverpool Chamber of Commerce – a network that connects entrepreneurs, promoting their development and collaboration.
- Business and IP Centre Liverpool – a resource hub that helps businesses with intellectual property and development issues.
- LCR Connect – a high-speed, full-fibre network designed to support businesses in the Liverpool City Region.
- Liverpool City Region Combined Authority – works to attract investment and use devolved government powers for economic development.
- Third Sector Energy Grant – a £200,000 grant fund for the third sector, helping organisations cover rising energy costs.
In addition to financial aid, the authorities offer workshops for start-ups, consultations, and assistance with finding sites and premises. But what specific opportunities are available? For instance, can you buy an existing business or start your own? Yes, you can.
Local Business – What’s Popular in Liverpool?
For example, some of the most popular commercial ventures in Liverpool include opening a bar, café, hair salon, or car repair shop. These are the most common types of local businesses. If you are skilled in a particular trade (like a hairdresser or mechanic), you simply need to register as self-employed. And if you have doubts about your abilities or lack experience, there is an alternative option.
Franchise Business Opportunities
Some people prefer to join an existing business with full support by starting a franchise. In Liverpool, there is a wide range of franchises available across various sectors and investment levels. Here are a few examples:
- 7th Heaven Bakery Cafe. A bakery chain with over 350 locations in 125 cities, offering fresh cakes in just 7 minutes.
- ActionCOACH. The world leader in business coaching, providing support to entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses.
- Active Future. The company’s mission is to improve the lives of one million people a week through physical activity.
- Agency Express. The UK’s largest provider of professional sign services for estate agencies.
- Amazon Delivery Service. An opportunity to create your own parcel delivery business using Amazon’s technology and logistics expertise.
- Barking Mad. A franchise that allows you to leave office work behind and become the owner of a pet care business.
- Beer Saver. A professional beer line cleaning business.
- Betterclean Services. One of the most affordable management franchises, providing commercial cleaning services to local businesses.
There are also other franchises in sectors like education (e.g., Kumon), child development (Monkey Music), and the automotive industry (Snap-on Tools). When choosing an option, it is recommended to consider at least two factors: your area of interest and your financial capacity, meaning how much you can invest at the initial stage.
Start-ups Near Me: Can You Join a Team of Innovators?
Liverpool has an incredibly well-developed start-up ecosystem. This sector is of greatest interest to innovators and entrepreneur-investors. How can you become part of a development team or an investor?
Firstly, check out the Startup Grind Liverpool platform. There are others in the city, but this is the largest. It’s a global community that organises events where participants can network, share experiences, and gain knowledge through fireside chats and practical pitching sessions. The creative team’s website provides information on upcoming events, so anyone interested can join.
Secondly, if you’re a newcomer, don’t overlook training programmes and resources. For example, membership in Startup Grind offers free access to a network of mentors, office hours, and other exclusive opportunities.
Thirdly, you can partner with a large company. Our city is home to many tech companies and start-ups that work closely with well-known brands. For instance, Google collaborates with Liverpool Football Club on developing new technologies. The legendary local FC has also been reported to be collaborating with Orion Innovation.
Start-ups in Liverpool receive solid support from various funds and programmes. For example, the British Business Bank offers financing for the growth of different creative enterprises.
Businesses for Sale: An Opportunity to Own a Piece of Liverpool
In Liverpool, businesses in the hospitality sector, including cafes, restaurants, and fast-food franchises, are frequently up for sale. Listings for businesses in food and drink production are also popular. Niche businesses, such as children’s event venues or establishments with a unique concept, also attract considerable interest. So, there are plenty of options for entrepreneurs who want to invest in established projects.