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Solihull has come a long way from its roots as a medieval market town. Once a quiet outpost of agriculture and craftsmanship, it is now one of the most dynamic business areas in the West Midlands.
Today, Solihull offers a unique blend of traditional charm and commercial opportunity. It’s a town where you’ll find everything from global car manufacturers to innovative digital start-ups.
Here’s a look at how business in Solihull has evolved, and why it remains a prime destination for modern enterprises.
Solihull’s business story began in 1242 when it was granted the right to host a weekly market. This made it a small but important centre of trade for nearby villages.
In its early years, most local work was tied to farming, blacksmithing and small-scale crafts. The Industrial Revolution largely bypassed Solihull, which remained rural and low-key compared to nearby Birmingham.
That all changed in the 20th century. The biggest shift came when the Rover Company (now Jaguar Land Rover) opened a factory in the town during World War II. This site went on to become the home of the original Land Rover in 1948 — and it’s still producing vehicles today.
The town grew rapidly after that. Suburban development brought in new residents and businesses. Over time, Solihull evolved into a professional and well-connected hub with a thriving commercial base.
Fast-forward to today, and Solihull is one of the most productive areas in the UK outside of London and the South East. The town boasts high employment rates, excellent local services, and strong survival rates for new businesses.
Many firms are drawn to the area for its quality of life. Solihull consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the country, helping companies attract and retain talent.
It also benefits from outstanding connectivity. The M42 runs directly past the town, and Birmingham Airport is just a short drive away. In the coming years, Solihull will also gain a new HS2 station, putting London within 40 minutes by train.
These advantages are reflected in Solihull’s key industries.
The automotive industry remains central to Solihull’s economy. Jaguar Land Rover continues to be the town’s biggest employer, and many related businesses are located nearby.
This sector is evolving too. Investment in electric vehicle technology and greener manufacturing means Solihull is helping shape the future of the UK’s car industry.
Solihull is also a magnet for office-based work. Banking, legal, property, and consultancy firms all have a strong presence here.
One example is the BNP Paribas Personal Finance UK headquarters, which opened in the town centre. Other major businesses operate from nearby business parks like Blythe Valley and Birmingham Business Park.
Solihull’s quiet setting, good schools, and on-site parking make it ideal for office-based teams who want to avoid the stress of city commuting.
The wider West Midlands is the UK’s fastest-growing region for tech. Solihull plays a big part in this, with more than two-thirds of jobs now classed as knowledge-based.
Digital start-ups and IT companies are choosing Solihull for its affordability and access to skilled professionals. Shared workspaces and serviced offices in the town are helping these businesses get established.
Solihull is home to financial firms ranging from specialist lenders to fast-growing fintech companies. The town’s role in the Midlands fintech network is growing, with support for innovation and collaboration across the sector.
These firms are drawn to Solihull’s strategic location, especially when they need to meet clients in Birmingham, London or across the Midlands.
Finally, Solihull benefits from its location near Birmingham Airport, the NEC and key motorway routes. This makes it a smart choice for logistics firms, freight businesses and companies that require global connections.
The new Arden Cross development — including the future HS2 Interchange station — is set to become a major business destination in its own right.
When it comes to office rentals, Solihull offers excellent value for money. Prime offices here are often more affordable than those in central Birmingham.
In fact, renting an office in Solihull can save businesses thousands each year, while still offering access to transport, parking and high-quality amenities.
This has made Solihull especially popular with small and medium-sized businesses who want a professional base without the city centre price tag.
Solihull and Birmingham offer two very different business experiences.
Birmingham is larger, louder and constantly growing — ideal for companies that thrive in the heart of a big city. Solihull is quieter, more suburban and more focused on quality of life.
What they share is access to talent, transport and innovation. But Solihull offers these benefits with less congestion, lower crime rates, and easier access to green space.
That’s why more businesses are choosing Solihull for their satellite offices, regional hubs and even headquarters.
Solihull’s business outlook is positive. Growth is steady, the local economy is diverse, and future infrastructure investments are on the way.
The arrival of HS2 at Arden Cross will create new opportunities for development. It will also bring London closer than ever before, making Solihull even more appealing for investors and entrepreneurs.
Combined with a long history of enterprise, a high standard of living, and great connectivity, the future looks bright.
Solihull has evolved from a small trading village to one of the UK’s most desirable business locations.
Its strength lies in its balance. Traditional industries sit alongside high-growth sectors. Global firms share space with independent businesses. And commercial ambition goes hand in hand with quality of life.
For office-based businesses, Solihull offers a smarter choice — accessible, cost-effective and connected.
If you’re planning your next business move, Solihull could be the perfect fit.
