Invest Hertfordshire has emerged as a strategic powerhouse, making significant strides in promoting Hertfordshire as a prime investment destination.
The launch of Invest Hertfordshire at UKREiiF 2024 was a resounding success. The event saw the introduction of a new service and website, which have been pivotal in creating a unified countywide brand. The Hertfordshire event was sold out, reflecting the high level of interest and engagement from stakeholders. Positive testimonials from clients and partners further underscored the success of the launch. Additionally, the release of an Inward Investment brochure and a corporate partnership with The Crown Estate highlighted a commitment to fostering strong relationships and promoting investment opportunities.
Tom Pike, Director of Stevenage Borough Council, praised the collaborative efforts facilitated by IH, stating: “Working together via Invest Hertfordshire has helped secure amazing responses from developers and government departments at UKREiiF, strengthening relationships, and putting Hertfordshire on the map.”
Building on this momentum, Hertfordshire was showcased on an international platform at EXPO REAL 2024, Europe’s premier real estate and investment fair. For the first time, Hertfordshire was represented as part of a wider UK delegation, promoting, and attracting investment into key sites across the region. With over 40,000 participants from 75 countries and regions, EXPO REAL provided a significant opportunity to highlight Hertfordshire’s strategic advantages.
Melanie Miller, Inward Investment Manager at IH, emphasised the importance of such platforms for visibility and growth: "The Hertfordshire Inward Investment team is developing a pipeline of opportunities for 2025/26 focusing on key strategic sites and sectors. Investment fairs like UKREiiF and EXPO REAL are crucial for attracting further investment and positioning Hertfordshire as a versatile destination for investors".
The strategic initiatives have already enhanced Hertfordshire’s visibility and appeal. Looking ahead, the focus is on fostering collaborations and promoting the right developments to the right investors, ensuring Hertfordshire remains at the forefront of regional growth and development.
The successful launches at UKREiiF and EXPO REAL in 2024 have set a strong foundation for future growth, positioning Hertfordshire as a leading hub for innovation and economic development.
Investment fairs like UKREiiF and EXPO REAL play a crucial role in embedding Hertfordshire’s position as a key enabler of growth and attracting further investment. The county’s representation of the eight growth-driving sectors identified in the Government’s Industrial Strategy positions it as a versatile and attractive destination for investors. For 2025, there is a particular emphasis on the creative industries, aligning with the UK Screen Investment Summit to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities in this sector.
The unified branding and targeted promotion efforts have significantly enhanced Hertfordshire’s visibility and appeal to investors. The positive feedback from stakeholders and the successful partnerships formed at UKREiiF and EXPO REAL are testament to the effective strategy and execution. As momentum continues to build, stakeholders can look forward to a prosperous and dynamic future for Hertfordshire.