Business location 'is no longer key' thanks to broadband

Companies have greater choice in where they choose to base their operations as the internet allows them to use more flexible working practices, it has been suggested.

According to small business advice group Business Link, the need to pick up staff from the local area has lessened due to the advance of technology.

Companies can use services such as voice over internet protocol (VoIP) or virtual private networks to have a small office presence and most staff working from home.

However, Sunil Mistry, a local area business adviser with Business Link, said that the focus for firms should now move from choosing a location close to population centres to places where they can forge links with other companies in their industry.

"[An important factor] is looking for access to link companies.

"If a company is doing something that is reliant on a certain range of other companies, then obviously it would want to be in the best environment to access them and be in touch with them quickly."