Ernst & Young: West Midlands preferred choice for one in ten global investors

By Rob Starr, Content Manager, Big4.com

The West Midlands is the destination of choice for one in ten global investors looking to invest in the UK in 2013, according to a survey of spending intentions by Ernst & Young.

The analysis by Ernst & Young of the attitudes of 500 international decision makers found that automotive and energy companies were especially keen on the region as a bet for 2013, but that more needs to be done to build a brand for foreign direct investment.

The region is the preferred UK choice for 10% of investors for 2013, behind only London and the South East, but ahead of the North East England, (9%) East Midlands, (9%) North West, (7%) South West (7%)  Scotland, (5%) in Wales, (4%) in Yorkshire and 2% in the East of England.

Sara Fowler, Ernst & Young’s senior partner for the Midlands, said: “The Midlands has some outstanding capabilities such as the Manufacturing Technology Centre which is an unparalleled facility for driving new technologies and innovation but more still needs to be done to raise awareness of the Midlands as a global destination of choice.

“While our skilled manufacturing workforce is a powerful attraction, it is also important that the other sectors where the Midlands excels such as life sciences and shared services are highlighted for continued investment, to help ensure much needed growth and jobs.”