Canary Wharf in London is undoubtedly a popular location, but what is it about Canary Wharf that attracts big business, and who are the major employers based there?
Easily recognisable by its many iconic skyscrapers and its vibrant waterfront location, Canary Wharf has attracted some of the leading companies in the world to set up offices in this dynamic business environment. It has attracted a wide range of highly diverse major employers over the years making it a global hub for finance, professional services, technology, media and so much more.
Perhaps best-known as a major modern financial hub, it is located in the heart of London’s Docklands. The presence of top global employers in several industries has created a thriving and dynamic business community and residential community based around contemporary apartment living.
The area that is occupied by Canary Wharf continues to evolve and attract more businesses. All of this has helped to solidify its position as a leading centre dedicated to commerce and innovation in London.
Here we highlight some of the prominent employers who have chosen to call Canary Wharf home.
Financial Institutions
Canary Wharf is synonymous with the finance sector. It is where you will find the headquarters and offices of many of the largest multi-national banks and financial institutions in the world. The multi-national nature of the major corporations based here means there is a multi-national workforce with people from across the globe making Canary Wharf their home either permanently or for temporary, extended stays. Here are just some of those major financial institutions:
Barclays Bank
Barclays is a multinational investment bank and financial services company that has a significant presence in Canary Wharf. There are over 5,000 staff based in their Canary Wharf office.
Citigroup
Citigroup is an American giant in the world of finance, a multinational investment bank and financial services company that provides part of the iconic skyline of Canary Wharf. The EMEA headquarters of the organisation occupies the flagship Citigroup Centre in Canada Square where most of Citi’s UK employees are based.
HSBC
One of the largest banking and financial services organisations in the world, HSBC is a British organisation with its global headquarters in Canary Wharf. It is now the largest bank in Europe but was originally established in Hong Kong and is still listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in addition to the London Stock Exchange.
J.P. Morgan
Another leading global financial services firm that has a significant presence in Canary Wharf. They have 10,000 employees and growing, situated in the heart of London.
Morgan Stanley
A global investment bank and financial services company with offices in Canary Wharf. Their European headquarters is based across three locations all within the Canary Wharf complex.
Professional Services Firms
Canary Wharf is also an attractive location for a range of professional services firms. These firms include law firms, accounting firms, and consulting firms. Some of the notable firms that have chosen to use offices in Canary Wharf include:
Clifford Chance
A multinational law firm with a major office in Canary Wharf. The company have 34 offices in total based across 23 locations worldwide.
EY
One of the Big Four accounting firms. They have a significant presence in Canary Wharf. Previously known as Ernst & Young, this firm is synonymous with quality professional services.
KPMG
Another of the Big Four accounting firms, KPMG is a powerhouse in the world of accounting with offices in Canary Wharf.
PwC
PricewaterhouseCoopers International is a global professional services network with a major office in Canary Wharf. Their services include taxation services, accountancy, legal services and consultancy.
Media and Technology Companies
Canary Wharf is not just a major hub when it comes to financial institutions, it is increasingly becoming a hub for media and technology companies as well. There are currently several major players who have already established offices in the area or are in the process of doing so. These companies include those involved in media and a wide range of technology-based companies. Major players currently making their home in Canary Wharf include:
- Bloomberg L.P.
- Infosys
- Level 39
- Reuters
Visiting Canary Wharf on Business
If you’re visiting Canary Wharf on business, having a place to stay that is local, comfortable and contains all the amenities you’ll need is essential. For short stays, as you would expect, there are plenty of well-known hotels for all budgets in the vicinity. But for longer stays business travellers often prefer serviced accommodation that has the benefits of home with the services of an hotel. That means a spacious living and dining area and a fully fitted kitchen for when you simply want a home-cooked meal; plus, regular housekeeping, laundry facilities, and fitness centres. They really are the best of both worlds. With space to really relax, have a good night’s sleep and eat healthy meals, you can show up fresh to a meeting with one of these powerhouse organisations and make the best impression.
