Google announced on Tuesday plans to invest GBP 5 billion ($6.8 billion) in the United Kingdom, timing the move ahead of the U.S. President Donald Trump’s state visit—a trip poised to pave the way for a series of transatlantic business agreements.
A key feature of the investment will be the opening of a new data center near London. The facility is intended to serve rising demand for Google’s AI-driven offerings, including Google Cloud, Search, Maps, and Workspace.
This substantial commitment demonstrates strong confidence in the UK economy and the enduring partnership between both nations, stated British finance minister Rachel Reeves, according to Google. Alphabet’s technology giant projects the investment will generate approximately 8,250 annual jobs within British firms.
The announcement provides a much-needed lift for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government. With the economy experiencing sluggish growth, Downing Street has prioritized attracting private investment to spur recovery and improve standing in public opinion polls.
President Trump’s visit is expected to further deepen economic cooperation between the UK and the U.S. Senior American officials have forecasted more than $10 billion in business agreements would be signed during the event.
Google’s statement also highlighted a new agreement with Shell aimed at supporting grid stability and advancing Britain’s transition to cleaner energy. The company’s Waltham Cross data centre will utilize air-cooling technology to minimize water consumption and is designed to redirect waste heat for use in nearby homes or businesses, reducing its environmental footprint.
Google anticipates that, in conjunction with its clean energy programs and the Shell collaboration, its UK operations will function at or close to 95% carbon-free energy by 2026.
