a place for everyone.
at the heart of the UK.
Our Location
A globally connected city region at the heart of the UK.
Greater Manchester sits at the geographic, economic and logistical heart of the UK – a position that continues to underpin its success as one of Europe’s most dynamic city regions. From Manchester, businesses can access the majority of the UK market within hours, while maintaining direct and efficient connections to Europe and global markets.
Manchester Airport offers direct flights to over 200 destinations worldwide and serves as a vital gateway for international trade, talent and investment. Combined with extensive rail, motorway and freight connections, Greater Manchester provides businesses with the connectivity they need to operate nationally and internationally from a single, strategic base.
For companies serving UK, European and global markets, this central location reduces operational complexity, strengthens supply chains and supports growth at scale.
A city region built for sustainable, long-term growth
Greater Manchester is the UK’s most mature devolved city region, with powers over transport, skills, housing and economic development enabling a more joined-up, business-focused approach to growth. This model allows investment to be planned at scale, aligned to long-term economic priorities rather than short-term cycles.
The Greater Manchester Good Growth approach places productivity, inclusion and sustainability at the heart of development, ensuring growth benefits both businesses and communities. Under the leadership of Mayor Andy Burnham, the city region has set a clear ambition to reindustrialise Greater Manchester for the 21st century, building on its industrial heritage to drive modern manufacturing, innovation, green technology and high-value services.
This commitment is translating into real opportunities for investors and occupiers across advanced manufacturing, digital and technology, life sciences, professional services and the low-carbon economy.
A diverse city region
Greater Manchester is made up of ten local authorities, each offering distinct assets, opportunities and development propositions. Together, they create a diverse and resilient economic ecosystem that supports businesses at every stage of growth.
bolton
A growing centre for advanced manufacturing, logistics and education-led regeneration. Bolton combines affordability with a strong skills base and strategic links across the North West.
bury
Known for its advanced manufacturing, digital and professional services strengths, Bury benefits from Metrolink connectivity and access to a skilled workforce within a compact, business-friendly environment.
manchester
The commercial and cultural core of the city region, home to global-facing office markets, innovation districts and a fast-growing residential population. Manchester offers density, talent and connectivity, making it a natural base for headquarters, R&D and high-growth firms.
oldham
A focus area for industrial renewal, materials and advanced manufacturing, with strong links to Greater Manchester’s innovation ecosystem and future-facing industries.
rochdale
An emerging hub for manufacturing, logistics and sustainable development, supported by significant regeneration investment and access to large employment sites.
sALFORD
A centre for media, digital and creative industries, anchored by MediaCity and major regeneration along the River Irwell. Salford combines strong sector clustering with modern commercial space and continued residential-led growth.
stockport
A key growth location for advanced manufacturing, life sciences and town centre regeneration. Stockport offers strong rail connectivity, access to skilled labour and emerging commercial opportunities at competitive costs.
tameside
A strategically important manufacturing and logistics location, benefiting from east-west connectivity and access to both Greater Manchester and Yorkshire markets.
trafford
One of the UK’s strongest industrial and logistics locations, benefiting from excellent motorway access, Trafford Park and proximity to the Airport and city centre. Trafford continues to attract advanced manufacturing, logistics and high-value employment uses.
wigan
A major logistics and manufacturing location with excellent motorway access and large-scale development opportunities, supporting regional and national supply chains.
Why location matters for your business
Locating in Greater Manchester means more than choosing a place on the map. It means operating within a city region that combines scale with collaboration, global connectivity with local expertise, and ambition with delivery.
Businesses benefit from:
- Access to a large, skilled and diverse workforce
- Competitive operating costs compared to other major UK and European cities
- Strong sector ecosystems and supply chains
- A stable, pro-business regulatory environment
- Long-term public sector commitment to growth, infrastructure and reindustrialisation
Whether you are establishing a UK base, expanding European operations or investing in future growth sectors, Greater Manchester offers a location designed to support ambition both today and in the future.
