Welcome to
Invest East Lothian
Invest East Lothian
East Lothian: Workforce, Business & Sector Snapshot
At Invest East Lothian, our mission is to foster economic growth, facilitate strategic partnerships with the private sector, and drive the sustainable development of East Lothian. We are committed to cultivating a vibrant business ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration. Through targeted investments and proactive engagement, we aim to unlock the full potential of East Lothian, creating opportunities for businesses to thrive, communities to prosper, and the region to flourish as a dynamic hub for commerce and innovation.
BUSINESS SUPPORT & FUNDING
A core goal of the East Lothian Local Economy Strategy is to see businesses succeed and stay thriving in East Lothian.
Whether you’re a start-up or an established SME, we offer a range of in-house services and maintain strong relationships with national partners to help your business succeed.
Our team, including Economic Development, Business Gateway and East Lothian Works, is eager to hear from you. Share your vision with us, and let's explore how we can turn your business ambitions into reality. Get in touch today to start the conversation.
PROPERTY & LAND
There is a variety of property assets and economic land available throughout East Lothian.
Key Sectors
East Lothian’s energy sector is poised for long term growth with plans to transform the former Cockenzie Power Plant into a modern energy site and as a receptor for the Berwick Bank off shore wind farm and the Eastern link supplying to the national grid. The region is already home to the Torness Nuclear Power Station, a key player in Scotland’s current energy production. East Lothian is positioning itself as a leader in innovative energy solutions, supporting both local and national energy needs while driving economic growth in the region.
East Lothian’s diverse landscape, from its coastal waters to the rolling Lammermuir hills, provides the perfect backdrop for some of Scotland’s finest produce. The region is home to a wide array of producers, offering everything from craft beers, artisan gins and whisky to meats, seafood, dairy and baked goods.
East Lothian is a hub for innovation and technology, offering a dynamic environment for forward-thinking businesses. With excellent connectivity, a skilled workforce, the region is home to cutting-edge enterprises across diverse sectors from renewable energy to digital solutions.
East Lothian’s manufacturing and engineering sectors are driven by innovation and excellent transport links to Edinburgh and beyond. The region is home to a diverse range of industries, from precision engineering and advanced manufacturing to renewable energy technologies. With a skilled workforce, access to global markets, and a strong commitment to sustainability, East Lothian offers a competitive environment for businesses seeking to grow and thrive in these sectors.
East Lothian has a thriving, growing visitor economy that delivers significant benefits to the region.
In 2023, tourism activity supported 4,374 full-time equivalent jobs and contributed £348 million to the local economy.
A total of 1.4 million tourists visited East Lothian in 2023. Visitors stayed an average of 3.9 nights, showcasing the region's appeal as a multi-day destination.
Visit East Lothian, the region's Destination Management and Marketing Organisation (DMMO) provides support to businesses in the sector and works collaboratively with industry and partners such as VisitScotland and VisitBritain to develop and promote East Lothian as a responsible and must-visit destination.
East Lothian boasts excellent connectivity, with the A1 providing direct road access to Edinburgh and beyond, as well as to the south of England. Multiple rail links further enhance the region’s accessibility, making it easy for residents, businesses, and visitors to connect to Scotland’s capital and wider destinations.
News & Events
GET IN TOUCH
Drop us a message using our contact form, selecting your area of interest. This will also subscribe you to our quarterly Invest newsletter to stay up to date with latest news and updates.
If you are an East Lothian business, you can also benefit from a free listing on our Business Directory.