Why we invested in Derby: The Focus Group

Focus Group is one of the UK’s leading providers of essential business technology. Its decision to establish a regional office in Derby city centre was a strategic move aimed at enhancing both employee experience and business opportunities. Enterprise director, Matt Hill, tells us why the relocation has proven to be a resounding success, benefiting employees, the company, and the wider Derby community alike.

Why Derby?

The decision to move to Derby was largely influenced by the limitations of the previous office, which lacked essential city centre facilities. The previous location offered limited access to good transport links, coffee shops, lunch spots, and other amenities that employees desired.

By choosing Derby city centre, Focus Group sought to significantly improve the workplace experience, giving the team easy access to a broad range of city centre amenities together with providing a base from which to enjoy a vibrant work-life balance and increasing opportunities for networking and social interactions. The improved infrastructure also made commuting more convenient, a key factor in attracting talent from across the region.

Benefits of the new office

The relocation to serviced offices at Cubo provided the team with a modern, flexible, and dynamic working space. With cutting-edge facilities, stylish interiors, great onsite amenities and a vibrant atmosphere, the new office space has transformed the work experience for employees.

These facilities have made the workplace more attractive, encouraging employees to prefer working from the office rather than opting for remote work. The presence of nearby bars, restaurants, and leisure spaces has further fostered a collaborative and engaging work culture, enabling colleagues to socialise and build stronger team connections.

Additionally, the move to the city centre has allowed Focus Group to forge stronger relationships with Derby’s thriving business community. The proximity to other businesses and networking events has created opportunities for collaboration, strengthening the company’s presence in the local market.

Business growth and opportunities

Since its move to Derby, Focus Group has established relationships with major local businesses, including ASM Global, Derby County Football Club, Derbyshire County Cricket Club, the University of Derby, Leaders Roman Group, HUUB, Seven Restaurant and other well-known organisations.

By providing IT services, telephony, connectivity, and cybersecurity solutions, Focus Group has played a key role in driving technological innovation in the city.

One of the standout successes has been Think Healthcare, a division of Focus Group that delivers award-winning healthcare communications technology to NHS primary healthcare sector. Their solutions have significantly improved patient care, highlighting Focus Group’s ability to make a meaningful impact in essential industries.

Community involvement and local impact

Beyond business success, Focus Group is committed to giving back to the local community.

Through Focus Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the company, the business has provided substantial support to grassroots charities, including Safe and Sound and Enthusiasm. These organisations focus on helping vulnerable children and young people in Derby, aligning with Focus Group’s mission to contribute positively to local communities.

Employment and talent growth

Since setting up in Derby, Focus Group has experienced significant growth, actively recruiting and developing local talent. The move has not only created job opportunities but has also provided employees with the chance to be part of a thriving IT and technology business.

Focus Group’s investment in local talent has strengthened its workforce and reinforced its position as a major player in the Derby business scene.

Looking ahead: Future plans

We have ambitious plans for continued expansion and success in Derby. With a focus on business growth and city regeneration, the company aims to capitalise on Derby’s ongoing development, ensuring that opportunities continue to arise for both the business and the wider community.

We are hugely supportive of the continued regeneration of the city. We’ll be encouraging our people that work in the city to enjoy the local facilities and spend their time and money in Derby as it continues to develop, not least the new heart of the city – Becketwell Live – where we have played our own role in delivering data services to the arena, helping create a special experience for its customers.

As Derby continues to evolve as a business hub, Focus Group remains committed to being at the forefront of technological advancement, business collaboration, and community engagement.

The move to the heart of the city has proven to be a pivotal decision, setting the stage for long-term success and positive impact in Derby.