10 big businesses you might not know are based in Watford

At the start of this year property consultancy Lambert Smith Hampton ranked the town as the best of the UK’s 100 largest urban areas to live and work, primarily because it placed first in the economy and business category.

These 10 big businesses have recognised the convenient location and range of office and industrial space available and decided Watford is the right place to call home.

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J D Wetherspoon

The Wethercentre. (Image: Google Street View)

Based in a building known as the ‘Wethercentre’ in Reeds Crescent, Wetherspoon is a giant in the pub world.

It was founded in 1979 and operates around 800 locations.

Wickes

Wickes head office. (Image: Google Street View)

DIY and trade home improvements business Wickes operates across the UK but has its head office in Colonial Way. It was founded in 1972.

Wenzel's

Wenzel's has been on a recent run of expansion across North West London, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, and Hertfordshire but it was founded back in 1975 and has its offices in Tolpits Lane.

Allwyn

Former Camelot head office. (Image: Nigel Cox)

Watford residents are likely well aware that the National Lottery is based in town.

After taking over from Camelot in February, Allwyn said Watford will be home to the competition “for years to come”, although it will be moving from the iconic Tolpits Lane location to Clarendon Road by spring 2025.

TK Maxx

TJX UK head office.

TK Maxx’s UK operations are based out of a head office directly opposite Watford Junction, in Clarendon Road. It is a subsidiary of the American Company TJX and opened its first UK store in 1994.

CeX

Greycaine road is home to lots of businesses and one of the biggest is the pre-owned tech chain CeX.

It was initially established in 1992 as 'the Computer Exchange' and then became known as the 'Complete Entertainment Exchange'.

Majestic Wine

Majestic House. (Image: Google Street View)

‘Majestic House’ in Belfry Business Park off Colonial Way is the head office of the UK’s largest specialist wine retailer, Majestic Wine.

Costco

Costco Watford. (Image: Google Street View)

US wholesaler Costco has its UK headquarters at the location of its Watford warehouse, off Hartspring Lane.

Medtronic Limited

Manufacturer Medtronic describes itself as a “global leader in medical technology, services, and solutions”.

It was founded in 1949 and has its head office in Croxley Green Business Park.

Saba Park Services

Saba Park Services head office. (Image: Google Street View)

Formerly Indigo Park Services UK Limited, Saba Park Services runs parking across the country including at hospitals, leisure centres, and railway stations.

It is based in Croxley Green Business Park.