North Lanarkshire is entering 2026 with considerable momentum in its industrial property sector, underpinned by an increase in business registrations, significant occupier movements, and an expanding development pipeline. These factors are reinforcing the area’s attractiveness for manufacturing, logistics, and engineering firms.
Recent statistics from the Scottish Government, covering the period up to March 2025, highlight a notable expansion in North Lanarkshire’s business landscape. The number of businesses in the region increased by 130, reaching a total of 8,515. This growth represents the third-highest increase among Scotland’s local authorities.
The construction sector experienced the most substantial rise, gaining 50 new businesses, while the wholesale, retail, and repair sector added 30 enterprises. Furthermore, the collective turnover for businesses based in North Lanarkshire surged by £751 million, reaching an impressive £18.03 billion, which underscores the significant economic activity anchored within the council area.
Demand for industrial space within the region remains exceptionally strong. According to data from Ryden Commercial Property Consultants, North Lanarkshire possesses an estimated 30 million square feet of industrial property, strategically located predominantly along the M8 and M80 corridors and in key towns. Current availability stands at a mere 3.25 per cent, which is notably below the Glasgow City Region average of 4.3 per cent. Across the wider Glasgow City Region, North Lanarkshire commands a substantial share of employment land, accounting for 58 per cent by area and 38 per cent of all sites, the highest proportion among the eight local authorities.
This robust market is being further strengthened by a wave of inward investment and company relocations. At Eurocentral, Ciceley Commercials is undertaking an £8 million investment to establish a purpose-built Mercedes-Benz Truck and Bus dealership, a project expected to generate 40 new jobs.
Victor Pizza is relocating its operations from Glasgow to a 24,500 square foot facility in Coatbridge, involving a £3 million investment and the creation of 17 additional roles.
Concurrently, Ritchie Precision Engineering and Ion Beam Services UK are both moving their operations to Newhouse, collectively bringing up to 80 high-skilled manufacturing and engineering positions to the area.
To address the ongoing demand for industrial premises, Fusion Assets, North Lanarkshire Council’s regeneration and development company, is actively delivering new industrial space across multiple sites including Ravenscraig, Gartcosh, Eurocentral, and Cumbernauld.
Between 2026 and 2028, an estimated 193,000 square feet of high-quality industrial stock is projected for completion through Fusion Assets and its joint venture partners. Private sector developers are also contributing to the new supply.
A joint venture between Wemyss Properties and Westerwood Properties at Shawhead Point in Coatbridge is set to deliver 105,000 square feet of industrial and logistics space. Additionally, Manse LLP and J Smart & Co are planning a further 200,000 square feet of industrial accommodation at McNeil Drive, Eurocentral.
The North Lanarkshire Council is preparing to publish its ten-year Business and Industry Strategy in 2026. This strategy will outline a long-term vision for growth, signalling the council’s continued commitment to fostering investment across the local economy.
Councillor Alex McVey, Convener of the Enterprise and Fair Work Committee, stated: “Businesses continued to be attracted by the area’s transport connectivity, infrastructure investment and skilled workforce, adding that the scale of industrial development planned for the coming years gives strong grounds for optimism.”
