"Move right in." (Utah business climate)

• Author: Barrus, Jeff

"MOVE RIGHT IN"

In the spirit of its pioneer tradition, Utah has opened its valleys to a new wave of emigrants. They've come with new ideas, technologies, and strategies, and they've decided, as did their famous predecessors, that "this is the place." They're diverse companies, relocating or expanding, that have been enticed here by what Utah has to offer them. And yet, they share a common need: a space in which they can make their ideas happen.

When considering a building for a base of operations, companies should remember the factors which initially attracted them to the state. These factors (transportation, labor, taxation, governmental cooperation, etc.) are applicable on a local level and will effect this decision, as well.

Located at the crossroads of two major U.S. interstates and central to the intermountain region, the Wasatch Front provides businesses with a transportation hub unrivaled in the West. Many existing buildings are served by rail and readily accessible to freeways. These features should be evaluated by prospective users. How much shipping will the company be doing, and will the majority of that traffic be by rail or truck?

"Rail is becoming a minor factor, but highway accessibility is a much larger factor," says Rich Benion of Commerce Properties. Companies may also feel that proximity to a major airport is a top priority. Though, as Benion points out, "Air is usually only a major factor for delivery companies, like UPS." In any event, transportation concerns are crucial to most relocating businesses.

Concerns over labor also influence the choice of a new business location. Utah, as a state, has a work force whose hard-work ethic is envied by other states. But these workers must come from somewhere to get to work. Businesses need to find...