The UK is open for business – and London and the South East are prime destinations

In 2024, 1,375 businesses chose the UK* as a hub to spearhead growth, with 512 of those opting for London and the South East.

London and the South East continue to stand out as the go-to destination for entrepreneurs and established businesses who are looking for international expansion – and for good reason.

A financial powerhouse

London is one of the world’s leading financial centres. The city’s financial services sector is globally integrated and highly diversified, its fintech ecosystem has become a global benchmark for innovation. Whether seeking venture capital, arranging complex international financing, or navigating currency markets, London’s financial infrastructure offers renowned depth and expertise.

The regulatory framework that underpins UK financial services provides clarity, stability and credibility that international partners and investors recognise and value.

The City not only funds innovation, it drives it too. London is the home to global innovative finance and technology companies that shape financial services across the globe.

A technology powerhouse

Beyond finance, London and the South East have cultivated world-class clusters of technology-led businesses across diverse sectors. From groundbreaking medical and pharmaceutical research to cutting-edge creative and media companies, and software and AI to environmental technology solutions – the region attracts and nurtures businesses at the forefront of their industries.

This concentration of expertise isn’t accidental. The UK Government has placed technology and innovation at the heart of its industrial strategy, recognising that these sectors will drive future prosperity. Importantly, this commitment is backed by a tax landscape designed to support growth. Research and development tax credits, the Patent Box regime, and various capital allowances create tangible incentives for businesses investing in innovation and technology development.

Access to exceptional talent

The most promising business ideas need the right people to bring it to life. London and the South East offer access to a highly skilled, diverse workforce that can drive your business forward. The region’s universities produce exceptional home-grown talent across business, technology, creative and scientific sectors.

Crucially, the UK’s immigration system remains designed to attract the best global talent. The skilled worker visa routes and the innovative Global Talent visa recognise that great ideas and exceptional people can come from anywhere. For businesses, this means you can build teams that combine local expertise with international perspectives – a powerful combination in today’s interconnected economy.

A supporting ecosystem built for success

London and the South East boasts a world-class professional services ecosystem. Growing a business internationally involves navigating complex legal, financial and regulatory landscapes – challenges that are far easier to overcome when you have the right partners.

As part of the Kreston Global network of accounting firms, Kreston Reeves brings local expertise combined with international reach. Whether you need guidance on UK tax structures, financial planning for expansion, or insights into cross-border operations, having advisers who understand both your home and overseas markets, as well as the UK environment is invaluable.

Let’s connect in Tokyo

This November, we will be in Tokyo, meeting with business leaders and fellow Kreston Global member firms at the Kreston Global World Conference. We’ll be flying the flag for London and the South East, and making meaningful connections with businesses that are considering UK expansion or partnership opportunities with UK enterprises. Our strengths in the financial services and technology sectors stand the firm apart.

Whether you’re taking your first steps toward international growth or are looking to strengthen your existing UK operations, we are your growth partner. The UK is open for business. 

Let’s explore how we can help you succeed. Get in touch with a member of our Global team here. 

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What some of our Kreston Global colleagues say

Sudhir Kumar, Senior Partner & Head-Corporate Communications-Kreston Menon, Director-Kreston Global Board, Chair Kreston Middle East “The UAE-UK financial relationship is built on deep historical foundations. Both are leaders in the fintech revolution, with the UK’s fintech expertise complementing the UAE’s digital transformation agenda. UAE businesses are attracted to the UK for its access to other markets, adding a prestige value, and its global business centre brand. Investors in residential and commercial real estate are also seeking popular and very well-known addresses. There are 5,000+ British companies operating in the UAE and Emirati investors with interests in the UK. For UAE investors and businesses, the UK government’s industrial strategy offers great opportunity for the UAE in shaping the future of the UK-UAE economic relationship. It is a new era of possibilities.”

* DBT inward investment results 2024 to 2025 (HTML version) – GOV.UK