Ahead of Trump Visit, Google Shores Up UK Ties with $6.8 Billion Investment

Signalling a firm commitment to its British operations, Google has announced a £5 billion ($6.80 billion) investment in the UK, a move that comes just before U.S. President Donald Trump is set to arrive for a state visit. This major financial pledge is aimed at expanding the country’s digital infrastructure and is being welcomed as a significant boost for the UK economy.
The investment provides a substantial lift to Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government, which has staked its reputation on attracting private capital to revive a sluggish economy and improve its public approval ratings. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves praised the announcement, framing it as a powerful endorsement of the UK’s economic direction and its strong partnership with the United States.
A key element of the investment is a new data centre in Waltham Cross, near London, which will be instrumental in meeting the growing demand for Google’s AI-driven platforms like Cloud, Search, and Workspace. The economic benefits are expected to be widespread, with the company projecting that its investment will support the creation of 8,250 jobs annually within the UK.
Google is also placing a strong emphasis on sustainability. The company has entered into a partnership with Shell to support grid stability and the UK’s transition to renewable energy. The Waltham Cross facility is designed with eco-friendly principles, using air-cooling to minimize water usage and having the capability to provide recycled heat to the local area.
This announcement is a precursor to an anticipated series of economic deals worth over $10 billion expected during President Trump’s visit. By combining this major investment with a goal for nearly 95% carbon-free energy use in the UK by 2026, Google is positioning itself as a key player in Britain’s economic and environmental future.