Entrepreneurial Somerset

Somerset has a strong entrepreneurial heritage that drives invention and innovation in all industries.

Somerset is home to the world’s fastest accelerating production car, the Ariel Atom, which reaches 0-60mph in just 2.7 seconds and is described by Top Gear guru Jeremy Clarkson as ‘motoring nirvana’.

High-flying pioneers have always felt at home in Somerset. The market town of Chard has the proud distinction of being the birthplace of aviation, with the first powered flight in 1848 by John Stringfellow.

And that proud aviation tradition is still carried on by world-leading helicopter manufacturer AgustaWestland, in Yeovil.

Another Somerset entrepreneur who stepped into new territory was Cyrus Clark, who moved from tanning sheepskin rugs to producing slippers and established Clarks, the famous footwear firm, in 1830. Today, Clarks sells 41million pairs of shoes worldwide each year.

Following in its footsteps is Foot Shop Ltd, a family owned multi channel retail company, based in Street, selling specialist footwear and foot related products – mostly under its Cosyfeet brand. Another expanding footwear company is Duo Boots ‘pioneers of perfectly fitting boots and perfectly fitting shoes’.

Somerset has exciting innovators in the vital health and medical sector. For instance, Probiotics International, has been central to the growing scientific awareness that probiotics, the collective name given to the billions of friendly bacteria within our digestive system that help maintain of our immune system, can provide health benefits.

From its manufacturing base in Stoke-sub-Hamdon, Probiotics International’s products are formulated, designed, packaged and exported through a global network of distributors.

The rural community is becoming particularly effective at founding, developing and diversifying into new businesses such as tourism accommodation; commercial workspace; outdoor adventure activities; farm shops and other food and drink initiatives.