The West Midlands is a varied mix of extensive rural areas surrounding the urban conurbations of Birmingham, Black Country, Solihull and Coventry, to be found in the centre of the region, and of North Staffordshire, an area world famous for its ceramics industry.   The region is the capital of UK manufacturing. The largest manufacturing sector is motor vehicles, with Jaguar, Land Rover and Peugeot all based in the region. Other key sectors include aerospace, plastics & rubber processing, software, food & drink, electronics and telecommunications. The region also has the fastest growing service sector in the UK.

The West Midlands is situated in the heart of England, its westernmost edge bordering with Wales. Covering an area of 13,000 km², the region has a population of 5.3 million and is renowned for its beautiful countryside, vibrant cities, rich culture and heritage, leading universities, famous brand names and cutting edge technology companies.

Lying at the heart of the UK’s transport network, the main national road and rail links run through the West Midlands and Birmingham International Airport provides access to major international markets.

With its central location and highly skilled workforce, the West Midlands has an excellent track record in attracting foreign direct investment with 2,125 overseas-owned companies employing 227,769 people in the region.
Another significant and growing sector is the tourism industry. The West Midlands boasts a wealth of cultural heritage ranging from Shakespeare to Robbie Williams, from cathedral cities such as Worcester and Hereford to the latest jewellery and textile design and traditional brewing industries.

There is beautiful countryside to be found across the region, from the Malvern Hills and the North Cotswolds in the south, to the Peak District National Park in the north and the Wrekin in the west.

The West Midlands has established itself as an important exhibition, conference and cultural centre, with several venues winning worldwide acclaim. From its world renowned orchestras, theatres and ballet to its top quality museums, restaurants, hotels and entertainment, the West Midlands has something to offer everybody – whether tourists, business or students.