Why Invest in Leicester & Leicestershire

Leicester & Leicestershire is a leading location for investment, relocation, expansion and growth. Whether you're looking for commercial property in Leicester, planning a business expansion, relocating, or exploring investment opportunities in the East Midlands, our region is built for growth. 


Leicester & Leicestershire at a Glance 

Three world-class universities & 60,000+ students

one of the UK’s fastest growing business locations

Central location with Fantastic global connectivity

£33.3 billion economy – the largest in the East Midlands


Our Location

Access major markets quickly and efficiently through Extensive road, rail and air networks

London can be reached in around an hour by train, while mainland Europe is accessible within four hours

Direct access to the national motorway network and home to East Midlands Gateway

East Midlands Gateway is an expansive rail freight interchange, linking businesses with major UK ports and international trade routes. 

East Midlands Airport acts as a logistics and distribution powerhouse

East Midlands Airport is the UK’s busiest pure freight airport, and operates as a hub for major operators including DHL, UPS, TNT and Royal Mail, with over 60+ passenger and cargo destinations.


People & Talent

Leicester & Leicestershire is home to one of the UK’s youngest, most diverse and fastest-growing populations, providing businesses with access to a strong and evolving talent pipeline, supported by the University of Leicester, De Montfort University and Loughborough University.

14% forecasted population growth by 2035
26% of leicester's population is aged 16 to 29
half a million people work in leicestershire
3 world class universities

Cost Competitiveness

Leicester & Leicestershire offers businesses the advantages of a central UK location while remaining highly competitive on costs. Combined with access to skilled talent, strong infrastructure and free support from the Invest team, Leicester & Leicestershire lets businesses scale efficiently and confidently.


living AND working IN Leicester

We know that your success can depend on attracting and retaining great people. Leicester & Leicestershire offers an outstanding quality of life, combining vibrant city living with attractive market towns and beautiful countryside.

Affordable housing, excellent schools, world-class sporting facilities, diverse cultural attractions and a renowned food scene all contribute to making the region an appealing place to live and work. From major events and festivals to award-winning attractions and outdoor spaces, there is something here for everyone.


Growth, development and Vision

The region’s Strategic Growth Plan sets out a long-term vision for housing, infrastructure and economic development through to 2050.

This document ensures there is space for businesses to invest, expand and succeed. Click the image to find out more.

Leicester & Leicestershire is home to nationally significant development opportunities

Including Loughborough University Science and Enterprise Park, Charnwood Campus, Space City Leicester and East Midlands Gateway. These locations are already attracting leading businesses across life sciences, advanced manufacturing, logistics, research and technology. Click here to view our key developments.

The Invest in Leicester team provides free, tailored business support to help you land, expand and succeed in Leicester & Leicestershire. Our role is to help you uncover what’s possible through insight, connections and experience.