- Scotland remains the UK's top destination outside of London
for foreign direct investment projects.
New statistics showing Scotland's foreign direct investment
attractiveness is at record levels are a testament to what the
country has to offer, First Minister has said.
EY's UK Attractiveness Survey 2026 has found that Scotland
remains the UK's top destination for foreign direct investment
outside London for the eleventh consecutive year. Investors cited
Scotland's highly skilled workforce, strong infrastructure and
overall business environment as core strengths.
One in three businesses planning to invest in the UK are now
considering Scotland up from 27% in 2024 to a record high.
This shows Scotland has maintained its strong, long-standing
competitive position despite foreign direct investment project
numbers declining across the UK due to a challenging global
environment.
First Minister welcomed the results of the
survey on a visit to the Gartcosh factory of Guala Closures, a
global leader in premium bottle closures, where he met General
Manager Peter McAllister to discuss Scotland's offer to
international investors.
Mr Swinney said:
"These findings are a testament to what Scotland has to offer and
the world is taking notice.
"Confidence in our investment proposition is at its strongest
ever level, demonstrating Scotland's resilience in what is an
incredibly challenging global environment.
"Driving economic growth is not just a priority for the Scottish
Government it is central to our commitments to ease the cost of
living, reduce child poverty and deliver better public services
for the people of Scotland.
My government will seize every opportunity to ensure that
Scotland continues to have a strong and vibrant economy in the
years to come, creating well-paid jobs in every part of Scotland,
from our cities to our island and rural communities.
"We will continue to do everything we can do to make Scotland the
most attractive place in the UK to invest, create jobs and build
a more sustainable future.
Peter McAllister, General Manager, Guala Closures said:
Scotland has always been a strategic geography for Guala
Closures: close to many of the customers and industries we serve,
particularly the world-renowned Scotch whisky sector and offering
a highly supportive environment for investment thanks to its
skilled workforce, strong industrial heritage and collaborative
business ecosystem.
Our Gartcosh facility reflects that long-term commitment and our
confidence in Scotland's ability to foster sustainable growth and
innovation.
Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise Adrian Gillespie said:
Scotland's ability to attract major investors like Guala Closures
points to our rich talent base, fantastic infrastructure and
welcoming business environment. These assets have helped us
remain the UK's top FDI location outside London for 11 years.
We're now seeing a shift towards highervalue projects in areas
like energy transition, digital technology and advanced
manufacturing, unlocking global trade and investment
opportunities. Crucially, investors tell us the way we work with
them really sets Scotland apart. It's often the key
differentiator in winning big projects despite strong
international competition.
Background
Guala Closures Group
operates 40 plants worldwide and supplies major international
drinks brands. The company recently invested in a new facility at
Gartcosh, backed with £3.3 million from Scottish Enterprise,
safeguarding more than 350 jobs and reinforcing its position as
Scotland's sole manufacturer of spirit bottle closures.
