Economic Sectors
Company support services
The city centre is an important service centreOver the last few years services on the whole have moved to the top of the list of economic sectors in Elche, very closely followed by industry (44.67% occupation by services, as against 43.08% by industry, according to the Population and Housing Census in 2001). Although trade makes up the main part of this sector, the hotel industry, transport, wholesale trade, financial brokerage, consultancies, estate agencies, marketing, information technology, etc. are also very important.
However, the largest developments in the period 2000-2005, as far as employment is concerned, can be seen in trade, the hospitality industry, the property sector and transport and business services, according to the records of employees registered with Social Security.
The volume of business generated by Elche’s economy attracts numerous service institutions Elche’s economic potential has allowed a constant rise in the services offered, making it a great centre of the tertiary sector with over 13,000 commercial activities related to the restaurant industry, accommodation, transport, repairs, professional services, etc, which all attract clients from neighbouring towns.
Furthermore, the high volume of business generated by Elche’s economy is a reference point for numerous financial institutions, insurance companies and services in general. This has led to the opening of 130 offices of different firms in the municipal district.
The activity of free-lance professionals who generally offer business-related services has also increased. Above all the opening of consultancy firms which specialize in legal and economic matters, marketing and information technology as well as distribution firms and advanced service companies has been greatly promoted. These make up a complete panorama of the expanding tertiary sector.
Office in Elche Industrial ParkThrough its Promotion department Elche town council is promoting a generation of synergies so that new business projects can get underway. This involves providing information, giving advice on the necessary paperwork and providing financial support. Local company PIMESA has developed Elche Parque Industrial, two areas dedicated to the establishment of services. In one of these they are planning to build a commercial service centre in the near future. This facility of over 14,000 m2 has an underground car park with more than 450 spaces, and is a business nucleus which serves as an example for the Alicante province.
Simulation of the new IFA facilitiesThe pavilions of Institución Ferial Alicantina are located in the municipal area of Elche. With over twenty events a year, both national and international, it has become a great showcase for companies from all over the province. Shortly a project will be underway to expand and create new facilities, such as a large centre for events, which will become the biggest in the region and will bring both national and international sporting, cultural and leisure circuits to our area. Moreover, it will have a modern business centre and an area for the installation of new businesses.
In addition, with the intention of diversifying Elche’s business network and promoting innovative projects, a European Centre of Businesses and Innovation was set up in 1990. This helps enterprises with business projects.
