A recent report from Oxford Economics has revealed that the University of Bath significantly fuels the local economy, generating over £500 million in gross value added (GVA) during the 2023/24 academic year. This contribution accounts for nearly nine percent of the total GVA in Bath and North East Somerset, underscoring the university’s vital role in the region’s financial landscape.
Supporting approximately 7,100 jobs, including its own 3,900 employees, the university stands as the city’s second largest employer. The economic boost is largely driven by student spending, with more than 20,000 students contributing around £230 million to the local economy—equivalent to about £11,400 per student. Notably, spending by international students alone supports around 880 jobs across key sectors such as retail, accommodation, transport, and leisure.
Vice-Chancellor and President Phil Taylor emphasized the university’s broad impact: “This report highlights the significant economic and social value the University delivers, working in partnership with our city and region, by supporting jobs, attracting investment and generating wider opportunities.”
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The report also highlights the university’s success in attracting future talent, noting that over 8,000 prospective students attended open days in 2023/24. The associated visitor spending contributed an additional £9 million to local businesses.
In terms of procurement, the university invested £138 million in goods and services during the year, with £16 million spent locally within Bath and North East Somerset and £64 million across the wider West of England. One local supplier, Pattersons—a family-run cleaning supplies company based in south Bristol—credited its partnership with the university for its growth and commitment to sustainable practices. Craig Banwell, Key Account Manager at Pattersons, said: “Our partnership with the University allows us to grow alongside one of the region’s most respected institutions, while reinvesting in local jobs, supply chains, and environmental practices.”
Innovative initiatives also play a key role, with the university’s SETsquared Bath innovation centre supporting 43 high-growth startups that collectively generated £15 million in turnover and secured £1.3 million in funding during the report period.
Community engagement remains strong, with more than 54,000 local residents attending university-run events in 2022/23—reaching over a quarter of the local population.
These findings highlight how the University of Bath is not only shaping minds but also shaping the economic and social fabric of its city and region.