Member Article

London named top destination for European Investment

London has been named as the European capital of inward investment for a six consecutive year, according to Ernst & Young’s European Investment Monitor.

As well as attracting more projects than any other European city, London has enticed more projects than all but four countries, retaining its position as the most attractive destination for foreign investment.

London is also leading the way in job creation from foreign direct investment, after witnessing annual growth of 13%, in comparison with Dublin and Barcelona, which have witnessed a declined.

Gordon Innes, CEO of London & Partners said: “We are delighted that London has retained
its position in the top spot for foreign direct investment across Europe.

“At London & Partners, we have been working closely with leading international companies to encourage them to move into or expand their presence in the London market.

“International firms increasingly see London as the world’s capital for business, with unrivalled access to a talented workforce, capital markets and the world’s most creative capital where ideas and trends are born.”

Securing jobs for Londoners and driving economic growth is a high priority for Mayor Boris Johnson, who expressed his delight that London has retained its position as the top spot for foreign direct investment across Europe.

He said: “More and more major international businesses are realising that to compete in the
global market it is vital to have a base in London.

“In choppy financial times this is very good news for the London economy and for the employment prospects of Londoners.

“This is a landmark year for the capital and with the gaze of the world upon us we must seize the
opportunity to demonstrate why this city is the best place on earth to do business and
invest.”

Business services and software sector also topped the list for the city’s inward investments, with an increase of 27% and 52% respectively.

Evidence of London’s strengthening reputation as a digital nucleus and a centre for talent and creativity has blossomed through the focus that has been given to the capital’s innovative hub, Tech City, where a wave of new companies have chosen to set up, whether a start-up, incubator or established global company.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .