The number of new startups formed in Dorset reached 8,565 in 2023 – more than in any previous year to date.

The numbers, which make Dorset one of the most successful counties in the UK, are increase on the 8,427 recorded in 2022 and bring the total number of registered businesses in the region to an all-time high of 63,266.

The statistics are taken from the Inform Direct Review of Company Formations, using data from Companies House and the Office for National Statistics.

Across the county’s districts, Bournemouth formed the highest number of new businesses (2,399), followed by Purbeck (1,896) and Poole (1,458).

John Korchak, Managing Director at Inform Direct said: “It is excellent news that Dorset can celebrate a record year for new company formations during 2023.

“The year undoubtedly presented a range of challenges for business including tepid predictions of economic growth, volatility in energy prices and uncertainty from world events.

“However, the formation figures demonstrate very clearly that Dorset entrepreneurs remained undeterred and pursued their ambitions to establish new ventures.

“This positive picture is mirrored in the overall position for the UK which saw the highest ever number of new companies established during 2023. The total number of UK formations exceeded 900,000 for the very first time.”

To see a more detailed picture of company formations in Dorset – including a full local breakdown – visit: https://www.informdirect.co.uk/company-formations-2023/dorset/