"CNH Industrial has over half a century of positive experience working at the heart of the industrial community in Basildon. We have found Basildon to be a great place to do business thanks to an extensive network of professional suppliers and skills providers. The support from the Borough Council helps ensure that sustainable businesses can be innovative and ready for growth."

"We have very specific requirements for engineers, and while many of the skills are available locally, for some specialisations it is necessary to relocate people from around the UK. Essex's quality of life generally proves an attractive proposition for these people.

We recognise the value of the Thames Gateway investment. The Basildon base is important for Ford's manufacturing and distribution strategy and with its road links, nearby deep water jetty and train spur, Basildon has plenty of transport options for us to reach our other UK plants. This includes movement to and from our European and international sites via the River Thames, Channel Tunnel, motorways and rail links."

Graham Hoare - Head of the Ford Technical Centre, Dunton, Basildon.