Economics of Oxford
Oxford has a diverse economy, although many
of the major enterprises are heavily
influenced by the presence of the University. Some of the major sources
of jobs for the people of Oxford are jobs in the University, or in industries
which were built there directly as a result of the presence of the University.
Major employers in this category include Heinemann Educational Books, Nielsen
Research, The Oxford University press, and British Biotechnology Ltd, as
well as the Univeristy itself. Also, the University brings in over 58 million
pounds each year for externally funded research, much of it coming from
national and international companies. The local Scientists and Technologists
are contributing to the growing number of high-tech buisnesses in the area,
and many are starting their own companies to get the most out of their advances
in their technological fields. Oxford has world-class research facilities,
nearby publishing companies, and an established success with research and
development, so it is a very attractive locale for the growing numbers of
high-tech industries, mostly located on the outer ring road.
Overall, Oxford has a very strong economic market. It ranks
better than the national average in overall unemployment rates, change in
unemployment rates, and quality of living.
Employment profile
Education (16,000 jobs)
Manufacturing (15,000)
Health (15,000)
Retailing (12,500)
Public administration (7,500)
Business services (6,000).
Source: 1991Census, Office of National Statistics; Crown
copyright
Notable employers include:
BMW, Unipart, Oxford University, Oxford Brookes University,
Oxford College of Further Education, Oxford Radcliffe Health Trust, Blackwell,
Oxfam, Heinemann Educational Books, Nielsen Research, Oxford University
Press, British Biotechnology Ltd, Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County
Council
Other Employers in Key Sectors
Powderject
Rand Information Systems
Other notable sectors are Tourism, Publishing, Communications
and English Language Teaching. Growth sectors
include: Biotechnology, Information Technology, and Scientific
and Medical Instruments.