Despite being divided by a common language, there are shared cultural roots, which make the Anglo-American relationship important both economically and politically, and thus the UK is the obvious choice (despite the issues of Brexit) for US companies to establish their first European subsidiary.
The Magna Carta, sealed in 1215, is more than just a peace treaty between the quarrelsome and unpopular King John of England and a group of rebel barons; it is the first embodiment of civil rights and a major influence in the development of the American Constitution.
The Magna Carta was sealed in Runnymede, a stone’s throw from Isosceles’ Head Office in Egham.
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‘Britain Open for Business’
For good reason, the UK is, and has been for quite a few years now, the number one destination in Europe for foreign direct investment in digital tech projects, but what makes the UK such an attractive proposition for a US tech company when it comes to establishing a European subsidiary?
- The UK is the 2nd largest economy in Europe, and 5th in the world.
- The UK is 2nd in the world for tech investment at $36.2bn, having achieved a record year in 2021 – more than France and Germany combined.
- According to TechNation the UK has produced 112 Unicorns, with 258 startups on potential future Unicorn tracks.
- The UK government is taking active and positive steps to position the UK as an international hub for tech companies that are looking to thrive, innovate and grow.
- The UK ranks 2nd globally for startup investment in 2022 so far, after the United States but ahead of China and India.
- The ready availability of a world-class and highly skilled workforce; the UK has three of the world’s top 10 universities – second only to the US.
- The UK’s tech ecosystem is growing exponentially.
- Even after the increase from 19% to 25% in April 2023, the UK’s Corporation Tax is lower than France at 28% and Germany at 30%.
- R&D tax incentives which enable companies (depending on their size and circumstances) that incur costs in developing new products, processes or services to receive a cash payment or tax deduction.
- The Patent Box allows companies to apply a reduced rate of 10% Corporation Tax if it exploits patented inventions and innovations.
- Excellent quality of life for US business executives and their families. The UK provides a range of housing options, a public and private health service, a public and private education system, and a diverse and rich range of sporting and cultural activities.
- Inexpensive and easy access to the rest of Europe.
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