The county's inward investment agency has launched a new scheme designed to help domestic and international firms to set up a base in the county and tackle the challenges caused by the health pandemic.

Locate in Kent says it hopes it will attract firms looking to set up, relocate or expand across Kent and Medway .

It says its new 'soft landing' offer will provide support throughout the process and provide help during the current crisis.

The agency says it has seen an increasing number of organisations in the UK looking for a cost-effective foothold in the South East as well as overseas firms looking for a UK base.

Gavin Cleary , CEO at Locate in Kent, said: “Kent has a vibrant mix of established home-grown SMEs and thriving multinationals. We’re now noticing an uplift in businesses from overseas and the UK, including those in London, looking for a new commercial base in Kent. The county offers a strong proposition, with its cost-effective property, excellent connectivity and large talent pool.

“Our soft landing package means that relocating to Kent is now easier than ever before, with companies able to access all the help and support they need to succeed. This package is part of a suite of support for businesses that Locate in Kent will be leading on over the coming months.

“As well as supporting organisations already based in Kent and Medway to bounce back via our Future Forward programme , we are also looking to ensure businesses can relocate and expand in the county easily, stimulating jobs and investment to support economic resilience and recovery in the county.”

The offer is being delivered in collaboration with partners including: Azets, Brachers and Kent HR, Cripps Pemberton Greenish, Crowe UK, Growing Kent and Medway, HSBC, Kent Science Park, Kreston Reeves, London South Bank University, Maidstone Borough Council, Maidstone Studios, New Appointments Group, SELEP, Shores and Legal, University of Greenwich, University of Kent and Whitehead Monckton.

For details on the package click here .

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