North Lanarkshire enters 2025 on a strong footing following a year of positive business performance in the local economy.
There was a £2.21 billion increase in turnover by North Lanarkshire businesses in the year to 31 March 2024 with the number of registered businesses increasing by 60 in 2023/24 to 8,385. The number of people employed by businesses in the area also rose to 97,960.
Figures published by the Scottish Government’s annual Businesses In Scotland report shows the total turnover of local businesses reached £17.283 billion in 2024, up 14.7% on the year before.
The increased number of businesses was mainly among small companies of up to 49 employees, with five in the medium business category of 50 to 249 employees.
Construction continues to be the largest industry sector in North Lanarkshire, with 1,560 businesses employing 13,660 people and a combined turnover of £2.7 billion.
In the private sector, wholesale, retail and repairs is the top employer with 20,450 employees. It has the largest combined turnover of £4.8 billion – 28% of North Lanarkshire’s total business turnover – an increase of £338 million over the last year (+7.5%).
“These latest figures highlight North Lanarkshire’s strong economic position as a positive location for businesses to locate, expand and prosper,” said Councillor Alex McVey, Convener of the Enterprise and Fair Work Committee.
“Over the last ten years, the number of businesses has increased by 1,020, an increase of 13.8%, which is significantly above the Scottish average of 4.5%.
“We offer high quality premises and land, excellent transport links, a skilled workforce and a full package of business support, making North Lanarkshire the place to invest.”
To capitalise on the strong and resilient business profile, North Lanarkshire Council plans to increase support for key industry sectors, enable more business and industry sites, and continue to attract additional inward investment to the area during 2025.
