Silicon Glen

IN the 1970s and ’80s, Livingston and the surrounding area became known as “Silicon Glen” due to the large number of electronic and software manufacturers setting up business.

Although the industry took a knock in the early 2000s, there is a continued regeneration in West Lothian with companies ranging from multi-national manufacturing giants such as Oracle to smaller start-ups which stem from local university investment.

Biotechnology and life sciences also play a strategic role in the West Lothian economy, with more than 45 companies in this sector generating in excess of £100m, with multi-nationals and smaller firms employing more than 2500 people.

The central location of West Lothian means it’s also the hub for distribution and logistics, which account for 12% of the total employment in the area.