Amazon Web Services (AWS) plans to invest £8 billion in data center infrastructure across the UK over the next five years.
This investment is expected to contribute £14 billion to the UK’s GDP. The initiative aims to create more than 14,000 jobs, primarily In the AWS data centre supply chain, including roles in construction, facility maintenance, engineering and telecommunications.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves comments, "This £8 billion investment marks the start of the economic revival and shows that Britain is a place to do business. I am determined to go further so we can deliver on our mandate to create jobs, unlock investment, and make every part of Britain better off. The hard work to fix the foundations of our economy has only just begun."
Tanuja Randery, Vice President and Managing Director for EMEA at AWS, emphasised that this investment is set to play a crucial role in transforming the UK’s digital economy to meet growing demand for cloud computing and AI technologies.
“The next few years could be among the most pivotal for the UK’s digital and economic future, as organizations of all sizes across the country increasingly embrace technologies like cloud computing and AI to help them accelerate innovation, increase productivity, and compete on the global stage,” said Randery. “We’re proud to announce our plans to invest £8 billion in digital and AI infrastructure over the next five years.”
This move adds to AWS's existing commitments, bringing its total investment in the UK to around £11 billion.
Libero Raspa, Managing Director of adesso UK, said: “AWS’s plans follow similar announcements in Germany, Spain, Italy, and France, highlighting the UK’s growing appeal as a hub for global tech investment. This brings the promise of economic growth, new jobs, and advances in technology across the country. Many of our clients now rely heavily on cloud services, with many more considering making the move, reflecting the growing demand in this area. The timing feels spot on, as advanced technologies like AI need vast amounts of computing power and storage. However, fostering strong competition in the cloud market is vital to unlock its full potential and ensure that users, businesses, and the UK economy see the greatest benefits.”
Rachel Reeves will welcome the announcement as part of the government’s long-term mission to boost growth, unlock investment and make every part of Britain better off.