London has been named the top European economic city, making the UK the most attractive country for employers

The UK has been dubbed the most attractive country for employers and staff, with London retaining its crown as the top European economic city, according to a new report.

Despite the negative press surrounding Brexit and stubbornly low productivity, Britain is still luring employers based on a combination of talent, location, quality of life and cost, according to Colliers International’s latest European cities of influence report.

London held its top position in the analysis of 50 major European economic cities, even increasing its lead over Paris in second place, while the rest of the UK cities included featured in the top 20.

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Simon Ford, a director at Colliers, said: “In the face of negative reports surrounding the UK’s political, social, economic and country risk issues, our research demonstrates that the country as a whole remains in a particularly strong position.

“While London may not score as highly as other European cities on some quality of life factors, it is apparent that companies in the capital have started to place more emphasis on creating workplaces that help accelerate their business and attract talent.”

Damian Harrington, head of European, Middle East and Asia research added:

It is clear from our analysis that the operational risk profile of the UK has weakened as a result of Brexit, moreso than any other European country since 2014. Yet it remains one of the lowest risk European countries to set up and operate a business, and the added benefit of far more flexible labour laws means UK cities take a very strong standing.

Employers are now focusing on creating workplaces that will attract top talent by incorporating co-working and collaborative facilities, flexible working options and ingraining a healthy mindset, the research found.

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