Financial, Professional and Business Services

Some of the world's biggest brands in finance, business and professional services have chosen Sunderland as their base to deliver a range of functions. 

From our highly skilled workforce that's fuelled by partnerships with leading education providers, to our low cost base, A-grade office spaces and collaborative business community, Sunderland is one the best places to facilitate your business needs. 

There is extensive financial support available, and our city's unique qualities have driven a trend of businesses setting up workspaces in Sunderland. 

Businesses in Sunderland

Global grocery giant Ocado Retail and US headquartered digital business Saggezza are just two of the large-scale companies that have diverted their base north-ward and are now thriving in Sunderland. Meanwhile, Port of Sunderland is ideally situated for the development of offshore renewables.

Emerging locations such as Riverside Sunderland are attracting brands searching for high-quality city centre accommodation, while nearby business developments like Doxford International Business Centre and Rainton Bridge provide the space needed for expanding enterprises to grow and thrive.

Our vibrant industries generate talent, investment and unmatched growth that continues to light Sunderland's bright future.

Our Talent in the Sector

There are more than 133,000 people employed in the business services sector across Sunderland, giving businesses access to one of the UK's most skilled and cost-effective workforces. Both royal and multi-skilled, our talent pool in the North East sees some of the lowest staff turnover rates in the UK. In fact, turnover for contact centre employees was just 12% in 2020. 

The constant flow of students at the North East's five universities feed into our region's pioneering financial, technical and administrative skills.

Our Connected City 

Our city centre is attracting a growing cluster of financial and professional businesses, so it is crucial that our city has the infrastructure to support this. From our excellent travel connections to our digital connectivity that's transforming our businesses and culture, these fuel the growth in our financial and professional sectors.

Sunderland is well connected via the Tyne and Wear Metro, the UK's largest rapid transit system outside of London, with excellent transport links via train, road and air.  We boast some of the lowest commuting distances in the UK as well as a range of business support and network clusters to provide guidance across a range of business topics. 

Sunderland offers skills, space and specialist support for the financial, professional and business sectors. Talk to our Business Investment Team about growing your business in Sunderland.