FIGURES show that more than 2000 new businesses were set up in Wyre Forest last year despite the challenges of the pandemic.

The total number of registered companies in Worcestershire stood at 42,443 at the end of 2021.

Wyre Forest formed the highest number of new businesses in the county with 2,007, followed by Wychavon with 1,825 and Bromsgrove with 1,148.

The statistics come from the Inform Direct Review of Company Formations using data from Companies House and the Office for National Statistics.

John Korchak, operations director at Inform Direct said: “It is excellent news to see that Worcestershire has achieved a successful year for business growth despite the continuing challenges of the pandemic.

“The motor trades sector saw the largest number of new companies (1,892) which may be the result of pent-up demand after the lockdowns of 2020 and early 2021. This was followed by accommodation and food with 858 new incorporations.

“Year on year, recording an impressive number of new formations within the county demonstrates an active economy, with entrepreneurs motivated to invest in new businesses which meet current and emerging demands for goods or services.

"The overall picture for the UK as a whole is also an optimistic one with the total number of companies now exceeding five million for the very first time.”