Kent is becoming one of the UK’s most compelling places to live, work and build a business, combining coastal charm and countryside with strategic connectivity and a diverse, growing economy. The county has a reputation for economic resilience and is seeing high demand for sustainable commercial and industrial space.

At this breakfast event, we will explore key factors underpinning Kent’s commercial appeal and how the “Garden of England” is poised for further growth across multiple sectors.

Why Kent?
Kent is home to more than 1.5 million people across vibrant hubs including Ashford, Canterbury, Dartford, Maidstone and Medway.

The county’s polycentric structure and robust commercial property market sees high‑growth SMEs sit alongside global brands in business parks, enterprise zones and town centres. Widely considered the primary gateway to Europe for UK business and with strong transport corridors to London, Kent plays a vital strategic role in the national economy.

Kent’s skills base supports a complex network of cutting‑edge science companies, logistics operators, and manufacturing and engineering firms. This forum will examine the county’s opportunities for growth, enhancing its reputation as a place where businesses can scale and people can thrive.

Speakers will discuss: 

• Connectivity – how Kent’s positioning is hard‑wired into its economic makeup and status as a critical destination for investment
• Innovation – how new opportunities are being created and supported
• Expansion – how town‑centre regenerations and enterprise zones are redefining what doing business in Kent looks like
• Longevity – how the business community can maintain Kent’s success

Panelists

• David McGougan, Senior Development Director – South East, Panattoni UK

• Doug Bannister, Chief Executive, Port of Dover (Dover Harbour Board)

• Chris Broom, Head of Business Development, Discovery Park

• Nick Lancaster, Director of Business Development, Research and Innovation, University of Kent

• Vince Lucas, Interim Chairman, Kent & Medway Economic Partnership

• Tudor Price, Chief Executive, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

• Salim Somjee, Partner, Birketts LLP

• Nigel Kimber, Corporate Finance Partne, DJH