Major Businesses in Reading
Many internationally recognised companies have chosen Reading as their UK or European base, drawn by its strategic location, highly skilled workforce, and strong innovation ecosystem. Major employers include Microsoft, Oracle, Huawei, SSE, PepsiCo, PwC, EY, and Bayer – all benefiting from the town’s exceptional connectivity, highly skilled workforce, and business infrastructure.
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Reading’s economy ranks as the third-highest in the UK (GVA per hour, Centre for Cities 2025), underpinned by high levels of innovation and investment. It boasts the highest concentration of ICT companies in the South East and is a magnet for knowledge-intensive industries, rated second-best UK location for innovation companies (DataCity).
For growing businesses, Reading offers not only the credibility of a world-class business address, but also access to a collaborative environment that fosters partnership and success. Whether you're a multinational or an ambitious scale-up, Reading provides the perfect platform for long-term growth.
Industry Expertise and Key Sectors in Reading
Inspiration
Reading is a leading centre for R&D, with strengths in climate science, life sciences, engineering, powered by world-class institutions.- Reading’s life sciences sector is thriving, driven by biotech, AI, and world-class research facilities.
- Reading is emerging as a major film hub, home to cutting-edge facilities like Shinfield Studios and Cine Valley.
- A fast-growing digital hub, Reading excels in areas like AI, data analytics, and digital marketing.
- With a high concentration of tech companies, Reading remains a key player in the UK’s ICT and telecoms landscape.
- Reading is a rising centre for finance, legal, and consultancy services, backed by global firms and strong infrastructure.
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