More women go it alone

Women across the UK are setting up more businesses than last year, with 38,100 opening in the first six months of this year, up nine per cent on the same period in 2005, according to the latest small business research from Barclays.

In three regions across the country - the East Midlands, London and Yorkshire - the growth in female start-ups overtook those of men.

Across England and Wales the number of businesses set up by both sexes in the first six months of 2006 increased by 10 per cent on the same period in 2005, rising from 183,800 to 205,000.

Says John Davis, Marketing Director for Barclays Local Business: “Start-ups remain buoyant this year and it’s clear that in many areas women are taking the lead and demonstrating how much they can contribute towards the business sector and the UK economy as a whole.

“Business start-ups such as property services, which include interior design and property development, offer increasing flexibility and are proving very popular with women who are often juggling careers and family commitments.

“Also, in the 21st century there are a lot fewer barriers to entry for women and they are taking advantage. I am sure, in a few years time, that in some areas of the market more businesses will be started by women than men.”