Stoke-on-Trent is in the county of Staffordshire and was originally formed from 6 towns: Burslem, Fenton, Hanley, Longton, Stoke and Tunstall, collectively known as 'The Potteries'. Stoke-on-Trent is at the centre of the pottery industry in Britain and has been since the 17th Century. The city is home to famous names in the pottery industry including Wedgwood and Royal Doulton.
Stoke-on-Trent lies halfway between Birmingham and Manchester. It maintains good transport links via the A500 and the M6, along with solid railway links. An easily commutable location, Stoke-on-Trent has also been named as one of the most cost-effective places to set up a business, giving the city a great reputation with its working population.
There are over 9,000 companies based in Stoke-on-Trent which offer wide ranging employment opportunities. The University Hospital of North Staffordshire is a key employer with over 7,000 members of staff. Other notable businesses within Stoke-on-Trent include bet365 which was set up by Stoke City chairman, Peter Coates, Michelin Tyres and the Co-operative, which has a range of its head offices set up in the city.
Stoke-on-Trent's job market covers a diverse range of industries. The largest single employer in the city is Stoke-on-Trent City Council. The city's pottery making heritage has enabled Stoke-on-Trent to become a popular tourist destination and visitors to the city can go on a wide range of pottery tours.
Stoke-on-Trent is also home to Staffordshire University, which was established in 1992 and has its main site in Shelton Stoke-on-Trent. Night-time industry has rocketed in recent years; Hanley has become increasingly popular for its nightclubs, theatres, pubs, bars and restaurants.