Haverhill has much to be proud of, not least of which is the contribution its industry and commerce makes to the region’s economy.

Haverhill is the hub of a regional communications network - a stepping stone to Europe as well as to London, the Midlands and other parts of the UK. Its close proximity to the M11 only 15 minutes and Stansted airport, just 30 minutes away, makes it an increasingly attractive location for business.

It was through its textile industry that Haverhill became prosperous, particularly in the latter half of the 19th century. Now it is home to a host of businesses, many of which have grown from early beginnings in Haverhill and others who have relocated here.

A recent survey commissioned by Business Link Suffolk has shown that Haverhill is thriving, with corporate turnover and profits rising and with an impressive level of investment in information technology and business development. The survey showed that Haverhill businesses are more innovative than the national average and the majority are planning for growth.

Haverhill has a busy, part-pedestrianised town centre, with major high street retailers as well as a large number of local shops, businesses and a regular market that supplies the needs of both the town and the surrounding district.

While there is a wide variation in the vibrancy of town centres in Suffolk, Haverhill has one of the best records in the county. In 1999, there were 17 fewer vacant retail units than three years previously, demonstrating the strong demand for retail. By the Millennium, there were 147 shops, estate agents, banks and other retail outlets trading in the town.

 
The town boasts four medical practices, two dental surgeries and an education establishment comprising of two upper schools, three middle schools and seven primary schools.