Long-known as a shopping destination and cultural hotspot, Milan is no stranger to the tourism trade; some 1.5 million visitors flock to its temperate climes every year. This figure grew to a staggering 21 million during the 2015 Expo Fair, and gave rise to a new era in Milanese commerce. Today home to a flourishing start-up scene – there were 6,000 burgeoning enterprises as of June 2016 – this city is more than visage. Underneath, there is substance, and international businesses are taking note. Here’s why…
1. Good company
The likes of Microsoft, Facebook and Google have already established Milan offices, with many more blue-chips set to join in 2017.
2. Bocconi University
It’s one of Europe’s premier institutions for business and finance graduates, keeping top talent close by.
3. Location
Warm nights, stunning sights and classic architecture trump the grey skies of other European hubs like London and Frankfurt.
4. Culture
Milan offers 15 Michelin-starred restaurants, a thriving nightlife and global fashion capital status.
5. Stature
The city fares consistently well on tourism rankings, topping The New York Times’ ‘Best Places to Visit’ list in 2015.
6. Region
Lombardy is one of Italy’s most developed regions, with a powerful presence in the tech, design, fashion, finance and pharmaceuticals industries.
7. Transport links
Three train stations and three airports will get you anywhere in Europe in under four hours.
8. Real estate
Both the commercial and residential property markets boast prime investment opportunities.
9. Financial capital
Milan is Italy’s economic epicentre, and home of the country’s stock exchange.
10. Ease of business
Italy was ranked 50th out of 190 countries in the 2016 World Bank report of the easiest in which to conduct business.
Where London has become a kind of post-Brexit blackspot, Milan represents efficient infrastructure, economic stability, and attractive prospects for growth. Now, the capital of Lombardy is flush with promise, as both Italian nationals and foreign expats look to the city as a growing financial power.
Whether you’re looking to hire or be hired, contact Pietro Novelli, Manager, Oliver James Italy, for the latest market updates, on +39 02 30578302 or pietro.novelli@ojassociates.com.