During the Middle Ages Rouen was one of the most successful cities in France, one of the capitals of the Anglo-Norman dynasties and an economically successful city overall. Its profits were ensured by a lucrative location on the river Seine as well as the healthy development of craftsmanship and then industrial productions. Nowadays, Rouen is home to half a million residents, while its metropolitan area comprises over 1 million inhabitants. The city provides a high quality of life as well as a stimulating environment for business development. In terms of transportation, Rouen ensures quick and easy commute within the city with bus and tram networks. Regular trains connect the capital with the rest of Normandy and large French cities like Lille, Lyon and Marseille. Moreover, Rouen is served by its own airport with both domestic and international flights. The local economy is based on a diverse mixture of industrial and service-based sectors. Pharmaceutical, automotive as well as food processing and aeronautics are all notably present on the local market. These industries are represented by corporations of global importance like Renault, Ferrero Rocher, Hermès, Valdepharm and Intertek, etc. As a result, many smaller companies try to find a way to rub elbows with prestigious industry representatives.