Scotland has once again been named the UK's top destination for inward investment outside London by EY's Scotland Attractiveness Survey, marking eleven consecutive years in the leading position.

The survey also found investor confidence in Scotland is at its highest level, with one in three businesses planning UK investments now considering Scotland.

Investors continue to cite the country's skilled people, strong infrastructure and business environment as some of Scotland's core strengths. 

Scotland's First Minister John Swinney and our Chief Executive Adrian Gillespie welcomed the news at Guala Closures' facility in Gartcosh. The Italian-headquartered firm inaugurated its new state-of-the-art production facility in Scotland last year.

Investors look to Scotland for financial services

Financial services stands out as a particular opportunity, with more than half of financial services investors planning UK expansion considering Scotland.

This represents an impressive doubling of sentiment for financial services in Scotland and marks the sector out as a uniquely strong area of attraction for Scotland – and impressively shows a level result with London.

Scotland's cities and sectors prove attractive for FDI

Scotland's major cities continue to attract international attention.

Edinburgh is the UK's most attractive city for future investment outside London, while Glasgow also ranks among the leading locations for businesses planning to expand into the UK market.

Scotland is attracting investment across a range of high-growth sectors. Business and professional services led the way in 2025, supported by strong performance in digital technology, manufacturing and utilities.

Manufacturing remains a particular strength, with Scotland securing almost a quarter of all UK manufacturing investment projects.