Recent regeneration has created great new spaces for creative, tech and media businesses
Scotland’s largest city is home to 596,550 people and a rich local history. There’s plenty to see and do for tourists and locals alike, including iconic buildings like Glasgow Cathedral and the City Chambers, open-top bus tours, or Glasgow’s very own tall ship. And for those who enjoy the local tipple, there’s Glengoyne Distillery for a walkthrough of all things whisky (and maybe even a sample or two).
‘Safer, smarter and more sustainable’
Recent regeneration of Glasgow’s infrastructure has paved the way for major investments in the city as a whole. It was recently awarded Smart City status, and is putting £24m into exploring innovative ways to use technology to make life in Glasgow ‘safer, smarter and more sustainable.’ As a Smart City, Glasgow is implementing innovative technologies like real-time traffic information and an app for citizens to report day-to-day incidents, as well as a major step-up in crime prevention measures with more security cameras across the city centre.
A hub for creatives
The redevelopment of Glasgow’s city centre has had a particular focus on the Clyde Gateway area and resulted in a home for media, technology and creative businesses: Creative Clyde. With its enviable riverside location, Creative Clyde offers workspace for businesses of all shapes and sizes, and property opportunities range from retail and leisure to office and studio space. Its vision is to become an international hub for the creative and digital industries, and it’s already home to a vast community of talented entrepreneurs.
Skilled workforce
With four universities all within 10 miles of the city centre, Glasgow has plenty of skilled graduates on offer. In 2013, 37% of Glasgow’s population had a degree or equivalent qualifications, which is 9% higher than Scotland as a whole.
But despite its comparatively high number of qualified residents, Glasgow has seen an increase in the level of underemployment in recent years – that is, employees who want to work more than they do. This isn’t necessarily a negative for companies looking at starting a business in Glasgow, though. In fact, it could mean that there’s a real demand for work, which start-ups and small businesses can only take advantage of.
Get in touch
If you are starting a business in Glasgow and need business broadband or phone line, call free on 0800 783 3353.
