The East of England has seen some of the strongest growth of any UK region in the number of mid-market businesses, according to new data. Despite uncertain economic times, the number of firms trading in the East in the £10-500 million-turnover bracket has risen by 5.4 per cent to over 3,000 businesses, outperforming the national increase of 4.4 per cent. Figures from BDO also show that businesses in the East lifted turnover by 4.8 per cent to £180 billion and supports more than 850,000 jobs across the region.

Almost a third East of England businesses have seen demand fall due to recent global economic uncertainty but most still expect to grow this year, according to a Lloyds Business Barometer survey. It shows 40 per cent of firms in the region have been impacted by global uncertainty, particularly rising costs and reduced demand (30 per cent). Despite this, 58 per cent of firms said they still expect to grow this year. Many are adjusting their strategy in response to the change in outlook with measures such as cost-saving, increased inventories, locked-in input prices and currency or forex hedging.

More than half of firms in the region are planning to increase recruitment after an upturn in demand helped lift business confidence in the East of England. It rose by 30 points during July to 53 per cent, according to a business barometer from Lloyds. Firms were more optimistic on both their own trading outlook and the economy as demand strengthened and hopes rose for new customers and contracts. A net balance of 61 per cent of businesses in the region expect to increase staff levels over the next year, up 24 points on June and the highest level this year.

Norwich Airport has been rated 'good' for accessibility in a new report. This rating was given by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) as part of its annual Airport Accessibility Report, which assesses the quality of support provided to disabled passengers and those with reduced mobility. Norwich was one of nine airports to receive a 'good' rating, while 19 others were rated 'very good'.

The Old City, New Attitude campaign, delivered by VisitNorwich and operated by Norwich Business Improvement District, has received major industry recognition, winning both the Brand Communication Award at the Brandland Gather Awards and the Best Marketing & Branding Scheme award at the Association of Town & City Management Awards. Launched to present a bold and distinctive vision for Norwich, the campaign celebrates the city's unique blend of heritage, creativity and contemporary culture while challenging perceptions and strengthening its appeal as a city-break destination through a dynamic, digital-first approach that showcases Norwich's character in a fresh and engaging way.

A new Cash Converters store is set to open in Norwich, bringing a long-vacant city