What's happened
EY's Scotland attractiveness survey shows inward investment projects in 2025 declined 20% to 108, but Scotland remains the UK’s top destination outside London, with investors citing strong talent, infrastructure and sector strengths.
What's behind the headline?
Key takeaways
- Scotland has retained its position as the most attractive UK destination outside London, despite a 20% drop in inward investment projects in 2025.
- Investors highlight a skilled workforce, resilient infrastructure, and strong sector strengths as core advantages.
- The regional distribution remains favorable, with Edinburgh leading among Scotland’s cities for FDI, followed by Manchester and Glasgow in the UK rankings outside London.
Context and implications
- Global investment flow has slowed, but Scotland’s fundamentals remain robust, suggesting sustained long-term competitiveness rather than a short-term rebound.
- Policymakers are urged to translate strong perceptions into higher investment flows, leveraging ongoing energy, technology and financial services strengths to attract capital.
What to watch
- Any new government actions or policy changes that could shift investor sentiment amid global macroeconomic pressures.
- Developments in North Sea energy and offshore wind investment, which historically shape Scotland’s FDI profile.
How we got here
EY's annual survey indicates Scotland continues to attract investment even as global deals tighten. The 2025 figures show Scotland securing 108 inward investment projects and 51 new projects, with Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen continuing to shape the country’s investment profile amidst North Sea uncertainties and broader UK dynamics.
Our analysis
The Scotsman (EY Scotland attractiveness survey, 23 Jun 2026), Independent (EY UK Attractiveness Survey, 23 Jun 2026) — both reflect Scotland’s ongoing appeal outside London despite a broader downturn in UK and European investment. Quotes from EY Scotland managing partner Sue Dawe and First Minister Swinney contextualize the resilience of Scotland’s investment proposition.
Go deeper
- Will Scotland’s government introduce targeted incentives to convert sentiment into higher FDI flows?
- How might North Sea energy costs and offshore wind developments affect future investment?
- Which sectors are likely to drive Scotland’s next wave of inward investment?
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