The UK's fastest growing economy
Reading’s economic output is one of the key drivers of the UK economy and the Greater Reading Economic Area is the pre-eminent powerhouse business location in the Thames Valley. This economy of 362,000 people is judged among the top 10 Small European Cities of the Future (FDI Rankings 2025).
Reading’s economic success is based on its unrivalled location and connectivity to markets, a highly skilled workforce, high productivity and a balanced economy with world-leading specialisms in innovation and knowledge-based sectors, not forgetting a vibrant lifestyle offer which attracts an ambitious workforce and relocating businesses looking to expand.