The historic market town of West Malling lies in the north-west of the county of Kent, and has an estimated population of 2,144. Due to its proximity to central London (35 miles), and good road and rail links to Dover and Folkestone, it has become a popular commuter town.
25% of the towns residents are educated to NVQ Level 4/5, and the average weekly earnings of a member of staff in full-time employment (as of 2011) are £468.30, which is higher than the Kent average of £431.20.
The majority of the workforce are employed in the following industries: wholesale and retail, including motor vehicle repair (16%); manufacturing (13%); real estate (15%); health and social work (10%); education (8%); construction (6%); public administration/defence (6%); transport (5%); hotels and catering (5%); and financial intermediation (5%).
The top employers in the area include ADT (fire and security), Cabot Finance, Kimberley-Clark, Sanofi-Aventis (pharmaceuticals), Sterling Insurance Group, and Rail Europe. 23% of staff hold managerial/senior official roles, with 17% performing technical jobs and 13% in professional posts.
In recent years, West Malling has attracted a significant amount of investment, and undergone a great deal of development, leading recruitment agencies to believe it will provide good job prospects for years to come.
