Geopolitical uncertainty and shifting trade dynamics are reshaping the way international businesses think about investment and growth.
Mr. Alex Wright, Vice President at Crestview Strategy UK
With tensions rising in the Middle East and President Trump’s inconsistent (or non-existent) trade policy, firms across Europe are watching global developments closely.
The US’ shifting position has opened the door for the UK to stand out, not just as a place to do business but as a strategic hub for international firms looking to navigate complexity with confidence. For Spanish companies, the case for engaging with the UK market is becoming stronger, not weaker.
Blog post written by Alex Wright, Vice President at Chamber Member Crestview Strategy UK
Supply chains, energy and strategic diversification
Recent instability in the Middle East has once again highlighted the fragility of global supply chains. Many businesses are taking the opportunity to reassess their operational exposure and invest in greater resilience.
The UK is responding to this moment with a renewed focus on energy security and supply chain robustness. The government’s £20 billion investment in clean electricity infrastructure and its target of net zero generation by 2035 is not only a climate commitment; it’s a signal to global partners that the UK is serious about long-term, reliable economic growth. Spanish firms in infrastructure, renewables, and logistics are well positioned to contribute to this transition and find meaningful commercial partnerships.
At Crestview, we have seen a marked increase in clients seeking advice on how to align with the UK’s net zero and industrial strategy objectives to best position themselves for investments, particularly in sectors like advanced manufacturing, green finance, and digital technology.
A bridge between Europe and the US
The risk of revived tariffs and more transactional US trade policy has pushed many companies to think differently about market access. With its unique position outside the EU and the Labour government’s strong commitment to cooperation, the UK offers a credible base for businesses needing flexibility across both sides of the Atlantic.
Some firms are already shifting parts of their operations to the UK to reduce exposure to tariff regimes or to take advantage of the UK’s bilateral trade agreements, including with Australia, Japan, and India. Spanish businesses, particularly those with global ambitions, may find the UK a useful platform to test, adapt and grow.
Public affairs and reputation management are critical enablers in this process. Whether navigating planning policy for a logistics hub, engaging stakeholders around a new product launch, or building visibility for an emerging brand in the market, tailored strategic communications can make a measurable difference. That’s especially true in a political landscape that is evolving rapidly.
A government focused on growth and investment
Since taking office, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has made clear that attracting international investment is a priority. The UK government’s recent UK-US trade agreement helped avoid the most punitive tariffs on UK goods, and foreign direct investment increased by 10% in Q1 2025.
But stability is not just a policy issue; it’s a reputational one. For many international companies, engaging with UK stakeholders means understanding how to build trust, manage public perception and align with national priorities. Crestview works with clients across sectors to do exactly that, helping firms entering the UK market build a profile, manage risk and shape the conversations that matter most to their long-term success.
The UK remains a stable, ambitious and globally connected economy, one that is actively seeking international partnerships to drive future growth. For Spanish businesses, now is the right time to explore how the UK market can support their strategic objectives. Crestview works with clients across sectors to do exactly that.
For more insight on how to maximise your UK operations, contact Alex Wright, Vice President at Crestview Strategy UK.
