ADOPTING a different strategy from other jurisdictions to attract e-business has been a success. The Isle of Man has just unveiled a campaign to attract UK firms’ online operations.

But Commerce and Employment Department business executive Jo Reeve did not see it as an increase in competition.

‘There’s a lot of interest in Guernsey at the moment from our one-to-one marketing campaign rather than the widespread advertising campaigns that other jurisdictions use,’ he said.

‘We’re getting a lot of positive feedback and interesting prospects.’

The Isle of Man scheme includes incentives such as a zero rate of corporation tax from 2006.

‘We’ve been competing with the Isle of Man and just about everywhere for over three years and every jurisdiction we compete with is different.’

The one-on-one targeting means the development team gets to know what each company needs and also if it fits in with Guernsey as a business jurisdiction.

‘We’ve had a growth in enquiries and have prospects over every week or fortnight. The Isle of Man is using financial incentives and taxpayers’ money; we’re doing it on the back of our reputation and infrastructure.’

The Manx Government’s campaign makes reference to 100% broadband coverage, which is also the case with Guernsey.

‘Companies have set up as a result of the activities we’ve been undertaking.

‘We’re looking to attract with a low footprint with regard to land, not huge warehouses, because it’s more difficult in Guernsey to get land for industry.

‘They’d ideally have a high turnover and also companies with a good reputation that won’t harm Guernsey’s reputation as an island.’

He added that there were several jurisdictions that offered cash incentives, but companies would move to the island if it provided what they were looking for. The island is secure, stable, well connected and has industry-specific legislation.

Guernsey’s infrastructure for IT has improved dramatically over the last three years, with a high level of broadband penetration.

‘There have also been improvements in telecommunications where there’s a choice and a competitive market which people are looking for.

‘And there have been falling bandwidth costs over the last year and improvements in legislation and IT support.’

Investment in IT skills has led to a diverse range, which Mr Reeve said was important for anyone looking to come into the island.

‘We’re looking to attract companies from further afield than the UK, which is what the Isle of Man is targeting, companies in Europe and outside Europe looking for Guernsey to be a stepping stone.’