I am delighted to endorse the 2007/08 Wyre Forest District Business Directory - a unique reference document and source of business information for all organisations.

The Directory is very much a tool for businesses in that it aims to enable indigenous companies to source goods and services locally and aid local inter-trading and purchasing. In addition, it introduces the District, with its wide and varied business base to new and/or relocating companies and organisations.

The District already benefits from a wide range of employment opportunities, businesses and services, ranging from traditional manufacturing to ICT and from service sector support to tourism. There are currently a number of major investment opportunities within the area, which will continue this business growth with the objective of bringing about new employment to the district.

We have so much to offer our residents, businesses and visitors - including a good quality of life; a range of new and existing business premises; commercial development land; town centre developments; a wide variety of housing as well as business, employment and training support and, last but by no means least, a wide variety of leisure and tourism attractions and activities.

The District Council continues to work with its partners and a network of organisations to plan and shape the area's future. We aim to help new businesses to start, grow and prosper; work with and support local businesses, as well as attract new businesses and sectors to the area.

The Regeneration & Economic Prosperity team will be pleased to advise you further regarding additional information, advice and guidance on 01562 732928 or email regeneration@wyreforestdc.gov.uk. Business information can also be viewed on www.wyreforest4biz.org.uk

Finally, this Directory is a concise and impressive anthology of the goods, services and opportunities that the Wyre Forest District has to offer. Its aim is to provide organisations with an invaluable local reference document - the Directory has my own and the Council's full support.