Recognised as the UK’s top local authority for growth potential, Perth has galvanised its opportunity and ambition to become Scotland’s fastest growing, dynamic small city.
As a major player in Scotland’s economic growth, Perth offers a compelling blend of strategic location, exceptional quality of life and exciting investment opportunities. With excellent UK and global transport connections and a world-class natural environment, the area provides a strong platform for ambitious businesses looking to invest, expand and innovate.
Perth based businesses benefit from strong connectivity to key markets across Scotland, the UK and Europe, and with a solid mix of high‑quality commercial property, modern business parks, and development sites at costs significantly lower than larger cities, it presents a strategically savvy operating environment, in a beautiful setting.
Perth’s GVA sits at circa £4 billion per annum, which has driven a 12% increase over the past decade. Recognition in the Growth Flag Annual Report 2025 as the UK’s top local authority for growth potential underscores its position it as a standout location for investors seeking scalable, high confidence returns.
A proven leader in food & drink, tourism and the financial industries, the focus now is on growing the energy transition sector, and the circular economy. The recently launched £530 million Investment Prospectus showcases eight transformative projects designed to accelerate sustainable and clean economic growth, including the Perth Eco Innovation Park, a flagship hub for low-carbon industry and green technology.
This momentum is backed by a strong public commitment, building on a £600 million public investment programme and the £300 million Tay Cities Deal, which have already delivered major improvements in infrastructure, cultural assets, and growth in key economic sectors.
Beyond the business case, the area is consistently recognised as one of the UK’s leading places to live and boasts unrivalled outdoor adventure and breathtaking natural landscapes. An award-winning Food Town, the city itself enjoys a thriving independent retail and hospitality scene, green spaces, and five-star cultural venues and visitor attractions.
Whether starting-up, relocating or investing, Perth & Kinross offers a dynamic, future-focused environment entrepreneurial spirit, business success, and quality of life go hand in hand.
Cllr Eric Drysdale
Leader, Perth & Kinross Council
“Perth is showing remarkable momentum, not just in growth but in tangible, transformative investment that benefits our economy and quality of life. The opening of Destiny Bridge and the New Kingsway in 2025 has already made a real difference, improving connectivity, reducing congestion and unlocking new areas for development across the region.
Alongside this, the launch of our £530 million Investment Prospectus has set out a clear, long-term vision for sustainable growth and clean economic opportunity, with market-ready projects and strategic partnerships that will attract investment for years to come.
Whether it’s improving transport links, supporting modern industry or fostering innovation, we’re creating the conditions for sustainable prosperity. This is enhanced at all levels by the strong talent pipeline from regional colleges and universities providing expertise in engineering, agriculture, and digital technologies to name but a few.
Perth is a city in which firms can thrive, communities can flourish and where quality of life makes it a compelling place to live, work and invest.”
Case Studies
Uncover further inspiring business success stories and examples of key sector strengths from across Scotland’s cities here.
Key Economic Development Documents
Perth and Kinross is entering a dynamic new phase of growth, guided by a new suite of forward-looking strategic documents. Together, these plans set out a clear, ambitious vision for the city and region, driven by innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Development Plan 2040
2019 to 2039
