Situated, as it's name suggests, in the central areas of England this region owes much of it's prosperity to the rich coal seams and iron deposits found there. It's central location has also helped in this growth as the region is crossed by several canal, rail and road links with many areas of the United Kingdom.
Diversification into a wide range of industries has ensured that the region has suffered less through recessions than other parts of the country. Motor vehicles are still assembled here alongside electrical engineering and the manufacture of synthetic fibres. Bourneville is also well known for the manufacture of chocolate and other foodstuff from the surrounding areas is processed in the region.
The West Midlands have an ill deserved reputation as a cultural wasteland but the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and prominent theatre companies have gone some way to putting paid to this. The busy National Exhibition Centre is also located in the region and is one of the few national institutions located outside of the London area.