Over 1,000 businesses lost in Swindon and Wiltshire since pandemic
The Local Economic Assessment has been published by the Swindon and Wiltshire Business Growth Unit
More than 1,000 businesses have been lost in Swindon and Wiltshire since the pandemic, according to a startling new report.
And the 2025 Local Economic Assessment from the Swindon and Wiltshire Business Growth Unit says the working population of the area is now smaller than the pre-Covid years.
The report says Swindon and Wiltshire are home to 28,555 registered businesses, the majority of which are micro-organisations employing fewer than 10 people.
However, the area has seen a decline in its business base with a net loss of 1,370 businesses between 2019 and 2024, according to the report.
Swindon has also seen a decline in employment. Between 2018 and 2023, the total number of filled jobs in the town shrank by 6,000 jobs – or minus five per cent – at a time when the national rate of change is five per cent growth.
In Wiltshire, however, the number of filled jobs increased by 3,000 jobs – one per cent – over the same period.
The report says the combined economic output of Swindon and Wiltshire contributes a “substantial” £26 billion in Gross Value Added – an economic metric that measures the contribution of a producer, industry, or sector to an economy – to the UK economy.
Wiltshire accounts for 56 per cent (£14.4 billion) of this total, while Swindon contributes 44 per cent (£11.5 billion).
Wiltshire’s economy experienced post-pandemic while Swindon’s economy shrank slightly – a trend put down to the closure of Honda.
The report also looks at future trends, suggesting economic landscape of Swindon and Wiltshire will be shaped by the green transition, automation and AI, and changing global trade dynamics.
The authors of the report say the area is well-positioned to leverage these trends to drive sustainable and inclusive growth with the support of government funding and private sector investment.
Councillor Helen Belcher, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for economic development, said: “The 2025 Local Economic Assessment is an invaluable resource that provides a robust evidence base for our economic strategies.
“By understanding the current economic landscape, we can make informed decisions that foster business and drive sustainable growth.
“This assessment points to the importance of strategic investments in key sectors. by addressing the challenges and capitalising on the opportunities identified in the LEA, we can foster growth, create new jobs and opportunities for our residents.”
Councillor Jim Robbins, leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “The 2025 Local Economic Assessment provides a vital snapshot of Swindon’s economic landscape, highlighting both our strengths and the exciting opportunities ahead.
“With a renewed focus on town centre regeneration and the significant potential at Panattoni Park, we are well-positioned to attract new inward investment and create high-quality jobs.
“We are committed to working collaboratively with businesses, communities, and stakeholders to build a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future for everyone in Swindon.”
Based at County Hall in Wiltshire, the Swindon and Wiltshire Business Growth Unit supports the sustainable and inclusive growth of Swindon and Wiltshire.
Through strategic initiatives, partnerships, and business support programmes, the unit aims to create a thriving and resilient economy.