7 reasons to invest in Scotland

From educational excellence to pioneering innovators, there are a number of reasons to invest in Scotland. Here's our top seven:

1. Educational excellence

Scotland’s education system is world-renowned with an impressive number of graduates. We have the highest educational attainment of any part of the UK. (Source: ONS Annual Population Survey, December 2008)

2. Academic achievement

Scotland’s academics produce one percent of all research publications in the world – we’re ranked third in the world for the number of research publications published. (Source: International Comparative Performance of Scotland’s Research Base, November 2009)

3. Scientific success

The Universities of Dundee and St Andrews are rated in the top 10 best scientific institutions in the world for scientists to work in. (Source: The Scientist, 2011)

4. Pioneering innovators

Scotland has a strong tradition of creativity, ingenuity and invention. Scots pioneered MRI scanning, the ATM, golf, Dolly the Sheep, television and penicillin. By investing here your company will get the best of our innovative people.

5. High returns

Scotland is one of the most cost-effective regions in the UK, with competitive labour and highly efficient operating costs, ensuring value and enabling your company to achieve a high return on investment.

It can be 30 percent more cost-effective to set up and run a facility here than in other parts of the UK. (Source: Financial Times FDI Benchmarking, 2011)

6. Inward investment 

Scotland is a lower-risk option for your business. We've played a pivotal role in attracting £600 million of planned inward investment for Scotland.

Leading international companies, such as Amazon, Mitsubishi Power Systems, Barclays, Blackrock and Gamesa chose Scotland to expand their operations – testament to the international confidence in Scotland as the location of choice to invest. 

7. Quality of life

Scotland’s economic potential for your company is matched by an excellent quality of life that ensure high levels of staff retention for investors.