Industrial Property in Greater Manchester

Greater Manchester is the industrial centre of the North West. The region stands as a key economic powerhouse. Since the de-industrialisation of the 1970s and 80s Greater Manchester has seen a renaissance in high-tech businesses as well as new and diverse manufacturing industries. This guide explores the industrial property landscape in some of the key centres in the region: Altrincham, Manchester, Bolton, Bury, Ashton-under-Lyne, Salford, Irlam, Stockport, and Wigan.

 

Market Analysis

 

Greater Manchester's economy is diverse and dynamic, marked by significant expansion over the past decade. Home to over 2.8 million people, the region has seen robust growth in sectors like finance, manufacturing, digital and creative industries. This economic diversity makes it an attractive location for a range of businesses. The region's development has been driven by significant investment in infrastructure and a strong focus on innovation, further enhancing its appeal for industrial activities. Some of the major entities with a headquarters or presence in the region include:

 

The Co-operative Group: A major player in retail and finance.

Manchester United and Manchester City Football Clubs: Major sports and commercial entities.

BBC: Significant presence at MediaCityUK in Salford, contributing to the media and digital sector.

Kellogg's: Their UK headquarters and a major production facility are located in Manchester.

JD Sports: A leading sports-fashion retail company based in Bury.

Another example of a local success story is Quooker, the all-in-one tap company. Manchester-based Quooker emerged as a success story of some note. In June, it was recognised as one of the North West's fastest-expanding companies. Demonstrating a significant financial leap, Quooker's turnover soared to £73 million in the last year, a substantial increase from £42 million in 2020.

This economic diversity, coupled with substantial infrastructure investments and a focus on innovation, makes Greater Manchester an attractive location for industrial activities.

Industrial Property Guide to Greater Manchester

Altrincham

Historically a market town, Altrincham played a role in the textile industry. Today, it offers modern industrial properties suitable for small to medium-sized businesses, blending its historical charm with contemporary business needs.

 

Manchester

As the core of Greater Manchester, Manchester City has transformed from a cottonopolis to a modern commercial and industrial hub, now home to cutting-edge industrial and commercial facilities.

 

Bolton

Bolton’s industrial roots lie in cotton and textiles. Modern Bolton maintains this heritage with a mix of historical industrial sites, new business parks and industrial units, suitable for a diverse range of industrial and manufacturing businesses. 

 

Bury

Bury was historically known for its role in the Lancashire cotton industry. Now, it is a strategic location for businesses, offering accessible warehouse and light industrial spaces. Well served by motorways with easy access to North, South and East West, Bury is the ideal location for a modern industrial business. 

 

Ashton-under-Lyne

Once a centre for coal mining and textile production, Ashton-under-Lyne now offers a diverse range of industrial properties, from traditional estates to modern developments.

 

Salford

Salford's transformation has been remarkable, from its origins in textiles to becoming a modern hub for digital and media industries, particularly at MediaCityUK. However, Salford's proximity to Manchester and its great transport links make it an ideal location for an industrial business. 

 

Irlam

Irlam’s industrial heritage is closely tied to its proximity to the Manchester Ship Canal, making it historically significant for shipping and manufacturing. It remains a strategic choice for logistics, distribution companies as well as industrial businesses. 

 

Stockport

Stockport has a rich industrial past, particularly in hatting and cotton. Today, it offers a blend of historic sites and contemporary business parks, catering to a wide range of industrial businesses. There is a huge range of industrial property in Stockport a stone's throw from central Manchester. 

 

Wigan

Known for its coal mining and textiles, Wigan today boasts large industrial estates and business parks, ideal for heavy industries and large-scale logistics operations. Wigan is a perfect home for any business looking for suitable and plentiful industrial property. 

 

B8 Real Estate’s Role

In each of these locations, B8 Real Estate’s approach is not just about finding a property, but about understanding and aligning with the client’s business objectives, market position, and growth aspirations, ensuring the chosen property supports their long-term success in Greater Manchester’s dynamic industrial landscape.