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View allGlasgow is Scotland’s largest city and one of the UK's growing cities. In recent years it has overtaken Edinburgh in terms of economic growth, making it an attractive area for businesses. The city is home to companies in a diverse range of sectors, with Glasgow financial district a popular location for international banks, and George Square and Paisley prominent areas for public sector organisations.
Glasgow has a lively arts scene and each year the city hosts an array of festivals, live music events and art exhibitions giving it a strong cultural presence. For start-ups and fledgling companies setting up here a number of business incubators are available such as CREATe for businesses in the creative industry and Data Lab for data management organisations.
Which business sectors does this area attract?
George square is the principal civic square in the heart of Glasgow city centre, and a picturesque part of the city centre with its green lawns and historic statues. It is the base of various government and council offices, including Glasgow Chambers of Commerce and the City Chambers, which is the headquarters of Glasgow City Council and one of the city’s most iconic buildings. The area also boasts a strong arts presence and is a popular location for events.
Transport links
Getting around is simple in George Square, with Glasgow Queen Street train station just a 6 minute walk away. The area is serviced by the light rail, with the SUB line passing through here. It also sits on a number of bus routes including the 1, 1A and the 500.
Local amenities
The area is home to a range of hallmark chain cafes and restaurants including Pizza Express and Five Guys, as well as independently owned bars. Just a five minute walk away is Princes Square shopping centre offering high street retail stores and banks.
What does Merchant City have to offer?
Located in the East end of Glasgow, Merchant City is one of Glasgow’s oldest quarters and is known as the cultural heart of the city due to its strong arts and cultural focus. The area has significant commerce and residential focus, and in recent years has become a hub for shopping and leisure, making it an excellent location for businesses.
Transport links
Argyle Street train station is within easy reach, and there are a number of bus links throughout the area servicing various routes. Parking here is straightforward with several car parks to choose from including the NCP Glasgow.
Things to do in Merchant City
Merchant City is famed for its designer boutiques and trendy cafes and is one of Europe’s busiest shopping destinations. It is also a hotspot for festivals, hosting various street art, live music, comedy and arts-based showcases each year.
Why choose this area for business?
The IFSD was purpose-built by Glasgow City Council as part of a regeneration project. As the financial heart of Glasgow, it is unsurprising that this district is home to numerous household names within the financial sector from banks including Clydesdale, multinational investment bank Morgan Stanley and leading global financial services firm JPMorgan Chase.
Transport links
The IFSD is well-linked close to Glasgow Central Station and Glasgow Queen Street train stations, serviced by regional and national lines making it an excellent location for businesses looking to be well-connected. The M8 motorway is nearby which runs through Central Glasgow, and the area is also connected via subway.
Why choose this area of Glasgow?
Hamilton is a historic town located to the South East of Glasgow outside the city centre and on the south bank of the River Clyde. It is a prominent area for businesses in the manufacturing industry, with household names including Philips based here. The town centre has previously undergone regeneration efforts with new shopping centres including Regent and New Cross.
Getting around the area
The local area is serviced by two train stations including Hamilton West and Hamilton Central, both of which are operated by ScotRail and provide links across Scotland. Getting to the centre of Glasgow from here is straightforward, with bus and train links available.
What businesses are in Paisley?
Paisley is a small town located East of Glasgow city centre and is largely home to businesses in the public sector, with Renfrewshire Council headquarters and Royal Alexandra Hospital located here. It is well-placed close to Glasgow airport, which is a significant source of employment in the area.
Transport links
In addition to its close proximity to the airport, Paisley is well linked via the Paisley Gilmour Street Station, which is the fourth busiest train station in Scotland and runs regular services between Glasgow Central and Ayrshire. It also operates a regular bus service around in and around the town centre and out to the Renfrewshire and Inverclyde areas.
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