Rochester has been ranked 2^nd in the nation in 2004 for its vibrant economy, as calculated by Business Outlook Magazine in its Q32 Rankings (download article). The criteria include low taxes, low unemployment, high job growth, low cost of living and state finances.

• NO SALES TAX
• NO PERSONAL INCOME TAX
• Unemployment 3.8% (May. '05)
• Job Growth Rate 4.36%
• Future Job Growth (to 2010) 18.2%
• Overall Cost of Living Index 138.6

The foundation of Rochester's economy rests with its existing businesses, some of which have operated successfully in Rochester for more than 100 years! To ensure that these companies will continue to grow and thrive, confidential on-site visits are arranged and appropriate local, state or federal resources can be brought in as needed. As an alternative, informational meetings on a particular topic are arranged with business leaders invited to attend. Most recently, a seminar on Growth Capital Opportunities was arranged at no cost to firms with a need and desire to expand. We recognize that most new jobs can and will be created by our existing businesses, and we support their ability to keep pace in a rapidly changing marketplace.

Existing Businesses

• Rand Whitney: The oldest and largest packaging manufacturer in New England; owned by New England Patriots owner Bob Kraft.
• Brand Partners: Award-winning retail environments designed and built for more than 1,600 financial services companies and more than 24,000 branches worldwide, helping companies realize brand potential.
• K.W Thompson Arms: Precision manufacture of weapons and castings.
• ROKON: The world's only manufacturer of dual wheel drive off-road vehicles.
• Ashland Electric: Design and manufacture of electronics, instrumentation, communication, propulsion products, and advanced engineering services.
• Albany International Techniweave: Manufacturer of woven and composite components to the aeronautic and defense industries.
• Stonewall Kitchen: Warehouse and distribution for award-winning, nationally distributed specialty foods.
• Fiesta Candy: An international leader in candy, this is their only US manufacturing, distribution and sales location.
• Waste Management: Internationally recognized leader in environmental enterprises and award winning waste-to-energy projects.
• Laars Technologies: An innovative manufacturer of gas heating systems; has been creating products for both residential and commercial use for over 50 years.
• Lydall Technical Papers: Developer of specially engineered products, including liquid and air filtration systems.
• eCoast Sales Solutions: A sales and marketing company focused on creating business opportunities in the data, voice, and storage networking technology sector.
• And of course many more …

Economic Development

To provide quality employment opportunities and fulfill the demand for goods and services by our rapidly growing and increasingly sophisticated marketplace, the recruitment of new business and industry remains a priority in Rochester. Buying power by residents in the Rochester Market Area has never been higher, and we are maturing as a destination for commercial activity in the region. New commercial districts are in development now, both in state highway corridors and in the charming New England style Historic Arts & Entertainment District in downtown Rochester. Its proximity to the Maine border and the rural, southern Lakes Region allows the City of Rochester to act as an economic and recreational center for the area, drawing additional thousands to its many retail stores, entertainment and cultural activities, and industrial employers.  Our easy access to the region has also manifested itself in the attraction of two new warehouse and distribution centers, providing more than 100 new jobs.

Rochester is dedicated to growing and diversifying the economic base of the city, and has committed volunteers, professional staff and resources towards fulfilling these objectives. The goals of the Rochester Economic Development Commission, the Industrial Development Authority and the city's Economic Development Department are in sync with each other and provide cohesive leadership in the attraction and retention of business and industry.

Small Business Development

Small businesses and entrepreneurs thrive in Rochester, and we have developed a strong support network. We host the regional office of the Small Business Development Center which provides training and technical assistance on starting a business, business planning, marketing and financial management. These free, one-on-one services are for either start-ups or existing businesses. The City of Rochester has created its low-interest JOB Loan Program (download JOB Loan doc) to offer financial assistance to small businesses located within the city that increase employment opportunities.

Major Industries in Strafford County

Here is a list of major industries in Strafford County. These industry figures are for the 2nd Quarter, 2004 time period.

Source: Economic & Labor Market Information Bureau, NH Employment Security

Market Analysis

For more information regarding Rochester’s business climate, including inflow/outflow analysis of retail markets, download the following document:

[Retail Market Analysis for Rochester download]

City of Rochester, New Hampshire, Economic Development Department, P 603-335-7522, info@thinkrochester.biz