New jobs to come to West Midlands as energy firm moves to region
A Chinese-owned renewable energy firm is to open its new UK headquarters in Birmingham later this year, creating more than 30 jobs.
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker announced EcoFlow is to set up at Bruntwood SciTech’s Innovation Birmingham Campus – in the city’s Knowledge Quarter which is part of the West Midlands Investment Zone – during his trade mission to China this week.
EcoFlow has headquarters in China, USA and Germany and the firm develops portable power products, solar technology and smart home energy solutions.
It’s first UK base will create 35 jobs in engineering, customer service, marketing, and business development. EcoFlow is expected to take occupation of the new site in June.
The deal was brokered by West Midlands Mayor, Richard Parker as he participates in the UK’s biggest trade mission to China for six years..
Mr Parker is part of a delegation of regional Mayors and Deputy Mayors visiting key powerhouse cities, including – Shenzhen, Chongqing, Chengdu and Shanghai – to promote the UK as a world-class investment destination and bolster areas of trade that benefit national interests.
EcoFlow will join the West Midlands Global Growth Programme – a unique, fully funded support package, offering international innovation-led companies a springboard to success in the region.
The programme is delivered by the Mayor of the West Midlands and the West Midlands Growth Company.
Mr Parker said: “EcoFlow is a fast-growing company developing solar technology and smart energy solutions.
“And now they’re investing in the West Midlands. This deal will deliver real benefits for local people – good jobs, greener power storage and a boost to our energy sector.
“Our region is open for business. We’re ready to welcome more forward-thinking investors who share our ambition to make the West Midlands a global leader in cutting-edge battery technology and clean energy.
“I’m building partnerships that will create high-quality jobs and drive a new era of economic prosperity for the residents of our region.”
Ryan Xing, Managing Director of EcoFlow Europe, said: “The West Midlands is leading the UK’s green industrial revolution, making it a stand-out destination for our new UK Headquarters.
“This investment marks a significant milestone in EcoFlow’s expansion, reinforcing our commitment to the UK market.
“Our new home at Bruntwood SciTech’s Innovation Birmingham campus will provide us with convenient access to the region’s ever-growing STEM talent pool and world-class R&D ecosystem, with unparalleled connectivity to potential partners across the UK and internationally.
“We look forward to driving further investment into the region and supporting its journey towards a net-zero-carbon future as we embark on this next stage of EcoFlow’s growth trajectory.”
Minister for Investment Baroness Gustafsson OBE said: “The West Midlands is a powerhouse for investment, and this announcement from EcoFlow will not only play a vital role in creating new jobs but will put more money into the pockets of the local community here in Birmingham.
“Seeing global investors put billions in the UK economy shows the Plan for Change is working.
“With clean energy being identified as a growth sector in our upcoming Industrial Strategy, we’re not only helping to attract and secure investment, but delivering long-term, stable growth across the UK.”
Innovation Birmingham is the Midlands’ largest digital technology campus is adjacent to Aston University and Birmingham City University.
Rob Valentine, Regional Director for Bruntwood SciTech, said: “The addition of EcoFlow to our Innovation Birmingham Campus marks a significant milestone for both the city’s tech ecosystem and our shared commitment to a sustainable future.
“As the first global technology unicorn to call Birmingham Knowledge Quarter home, their arrival not only reinforces Birmingham’s status as a leading tech hub in the UK but also aligns with our net zero vision.
“EcoFlow’s commitment to operating from a 100 per cent renewable, net zero office environment demonstrates its ambitions to support the global transition towards renewable energy through sustainable energy solutions.”
And Sarah Mann, His Majesty’s Consul-General in Guangzhou, said: “On behalf of the British Consulate General in Guangzhou, I extend my congratulations to EcoFlow and the West Midlands government on their successful agreement to establish EcoFlow’s UK headquarters in Birmingham.
“EcoFlow’s new base in Birmingham will boost the regional economy and serve as a hub for their growth in the UK. We are thrilled to support EcoFlow on this exciting journey and look forward to their continued success.”
