Commenting on the opening of the Olympic Games and its potential impact on South West businesses, Phil Smith, MD of Business West said: “The London 2012 Olympics represents a fantastic opportunity to showcase, on a world stage, the best of what British business has to offer.
"Whilst officially it may be the London Olympics, the reality is that economic benefits brought by the games will be felt right across the country.
" Here in the South West, we have already witnessed the benefits to business and communities alike when the Olympic torch passed through the region.
"Over the next few weeks, the decision by a number of teams to base themselves in this area, and the South West's hosting of Olympic sailing events will create a lasting impact for our region.
"In light of recent growth figures, the games also represent a potentially timely boost for the local and national economy. However, it is important not to be complacent and to fully realise the potential the games can achieve.
"The level of infrastructure investment and job creation which has gone into the set up of the Olympics needs to be sustained right across the country, and well after the show rolls out of town.
"We must also ensure that we present the best possible face to our guests. We need to be ready to welcome travellers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to demonstrate that our doors are truly open to tourism, investment and trade."
PUBLICATION: Wiltshire Business - 26 July 2012