Spiralling costs. A general election. The end of a 14-year Conservative government. Much has changed in the UK over the past 12 months, reshaping its investment landscape.
But with the new Labour government pledging its support for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), overseas investors can hope for a welcoming environment to foster new partnerships. The UK’s adaptive businesses, well-educated population and meticulous regulations continue to invite new opportunities – but which cities have proved most popular since our last report?
In partnership with Cebr, we analysed the 50 largest cities in the UK, ranking their current investment attractiveness according to three different categories: growth potential; local skills; and local infrastructure.
We’ve also explored the social and economic disparities between the north and south of England: how they’ve increased, and how the new Labour government has addressed them.
Get the insight in our new index
Key findings
1. London’s unwavering dominance: The capital continues to reign supreme as the most attractive investment destination. Its winning formula combines a highly skilled workforce, world-class universities, and a thriving business ecosystem.
2. Brighton’s surprising performance: Beyond London, Brighton stands out. With a knack for business creation and local skills development, it maintains its position as the highest-ranking city outside the capital.
3. Edinburgh’s rise: The Scottish capital is the leading city outside London and the South East. With strong local skills and robust infrastructure, it’s a beacon for investors seeking regional opportunities.
4. Coventry’s resilience: Amid economic headwinds, Coventry defies the odds. It’s the sole city to improve its overall Investment Attractiveness score year-on-year. A surge of new businesses and unwavering growth potential propels the Midlands location forward by 18 places.
5. Bucking the trend: The often-overlooked locations of Stockport, Bradford, Doncaster, and Kirklees show notable improvements in their rankings. These diverse regions demonstrate untapped potential for growth and investment.
If you’re looking to invest in the UK, our team of legal and financial experts can help. Find out more about our international investment support.
Catch up on last year’s UK Investment Reports
