The English language and the UK’s position in a time zone between the Americas and Asia were cited as key reasons as to why international investors had set up business operations here.  

Stable, pro-business environment 

Many of the leaders we spoke to talked about the perception of the UK as pro-business environment, a transparent regulatory and tax system, a flexible labour market and a stable social and political system. While these factors are sensitive to future UK policy choices, there was a general perception that UK would continue to retain these attributes in the longer term. As one interviewee commented:  “we need an environment in which we can have trust and confidence; that is supportive of business in the long-term.”

Several components of the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Ranking reflect the importance of a stable, pro-business environment. The components include ‘Checks and balances’, ‘Public sector performance’ and Corporate governance’, including audit and reporting standards. “A driver of the free market.”

Lifestyle and education 

For some of our interviewees, the UK is seen as a “second home market” with familiarities and cultural ties that render it favourable to other European markets as a place to do business. This is in part due to the world-class education system, where students from around the globe come to experience. As one interviewee responded “people want to live here and educate their children here”. 

A number of business leaders we spoke to talked about the attractive lifestyle the UK offers; citing its rich cultural heritage as  a benefit. 

“People want to live here and educate their children here”