Downtown in Business has welcomed Manchester’s recognition as one of the world’s leading emerging cities in the Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2026.
The influential annual report assesses 1,000 of the world’s largest cities across economics, human capital, quality of life, environment and governance.
Manchester has been named among its global “Cities to Watch”, achieving an overall score of 72.2 and particularly strong results for governance and environment.
Oxford Economics said the city had firmly established itself as a leading European destination for talent and investment, highlighting its cultural offer, outstanding universities and growth in high-productivity sectors.
Downtown in Business Group chair and chief executive Frank McKenna said the recognition demonstrated the value of strong city-region leadership, meaningful devolution and sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors.
He commented:
“This is a significant and well-deserved endorsement for Manchester and Greater Manchester.
“The city’s transformation has not happened by accident. It has been driven by consistent political leadership, a clear economic vision and a mature partnership between the public and private sectors.
“Manchester has understood better than most UK cities that successful places need scale, ambition and the confidence to compete internationally. It has built a powerful global identity while continuing to attract investment, businesses, talent and major events.
“The report also highlights the work that remains to be done. Manchester’s economic progress must now translate into improved productivity, better skills and rising living standards across every part of the city region.
“The challenge is to ensure that the success of the city centre creates opportunities for communities across all ten Greater Manchester boroughs.
“Nevertheless, this is a moment worth celebrating. At a time when the UK urgently needs its major cities to drive economic growth, Manchester is demonstrating what can be achieved when a city region has strong leadership, meaningful devolved powers and an ambitious relationship with business.”
DIB believes Manchester’s recognition also provides important lessons for other parts of the country seeking to accelerate economic growth.
McKenna added:
“Manchester’s experience should be studied by policymakers across the North and in Westminster. Fragmented governance, limited devolution and occasional consultation with business will not produce globally competitive city regions.
“The government must continue to empower mayors and local leaders, while city regions must give the private sector a meaningful role in shaping their economic strategies.
“Manchester is increasingly competing with cities across Europe and the wider world—not simply with other UK cities. This report confirms that its progress is being noticed internationally.”
Downtown in Business works with business leaders and public-sector decision-makers across the UK to promote economic growth, stronger devolution and effective public-private partnerships.
DIB will be exploring ‘Manchesterism’ at its Talking ‘Bout Regeneration conference on 23rd September and will also welcome the new leader of Manchester City Council, Garry Bridges and CEO Tom Stannard to a special Leaders Lunch next month.
