Salesforce has unveiled plans for a new AI centre in London as the US software giant chose the capital over other European cities to showcase its latest tech innovations.
The $240 billion company, which develops customer relationship management software, said the new center in Southwark is part of its $4 billion investment plans for the UK and will be “a physical space that will foster collaboration by bringing together industry experts, partners, and customers to advance AI innovation while providing critical upskilling opportunities.”Zahra Bahrololoumi, CEO of Salesforce UK, told the Standard: “This is going to be a fabulous space for us as we expand our capability.
“The UK is the third largest AI market in the world and we see lots of growth potential with incredible demand from customers.
“By locating Salesforce’s first AI centre in London, we are sending a clear message to customers and partners on AI, we are deeply committed to working closely together so that you can reap the rewards of this transformative technology, while ensuring it is a force for good.”
The announcement adds Salesforce to a growing number of US tech giants who have opted to build a major AI presence in London. Last year, ChatGPT maker OpenAI opened its first office outside of the US in the capital, while Microsoft has unveiled a major AI hub in Paddington and Facebook owner Meta continues to hire for AI scientists based at its offices in Kings Cross.
It comes as new research by London & Partners found that over three-quarters (77%) of international business leaders in the AI sector consider London to be more supportive of AI development than other leading AI hubs.
Nearly half (45%) of respondents cited supportive government incentives and policies tailored for AI development as London’s key advantage, while 44% highlighted access to international markets and global business opportunities as another significant benefit of being located in the capital.
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “London is a world-leading centre for technology and talent, and fast becoming one of the most important centres for AI businesses globally.
“The world’s leading players in the sector are investing in international headquarters across our city. These AI hubs will bring industry experts together to innovate and collaborate and provide major opportunities for Londoners to access the jobs and opportunities of the future.”
