SAP chooses Alderley Park as it relocates North West team

• German software giant moves its new northern base to Glasshouse

• Opening is part of SAP plans to invest up to €1/4bn in the UK over the next five years 

• SAP officially opens new northern hub with launch event 

Europe’s leading technology company SAP has opened its new northern hub at Alderley Park, part of Bruntwood SciTech’s network of innovation districts.

The multi-national cloud solutions provider is one of Germany’s most valuable companies, for which the UK is a critical market. SAP’s move to Glasshouse at Alderley Park forms part of its commitment to invest up to €1/4bn in the UK over the next five years and reflects an ambition to tap into the north west’s growing digital economy.

Last year Manchester was crowned the fastest-growing tech city in Europe, contributing £5 billion to the UK’s digital ecosystem alone.  

SAP’s new hub, home to over 100 employees, provides the technology firm with high quality workspaces and breakout areas, specifically designed to boost innovation through collaboration. Glasshouse is home to businesses specialising in AI, fintech, digital health and software development, as well as digital communications and animation.  

The software giant’s relocation to Alderley Park along with the consolidation of its Warrington and Knutsford offices will support SAP to access a greater pool of digital talent across the region and wider UK by leveraging opportunities through Bruntwood SciTech’s national network, helping to  bolster its established internship programme and will also provide easy access to their London office.  

Employee wellbeing was an equally significant driver for SAP’s move. Set in the heart of 400-acres, the Park is home to a gym and sports complex, as well as woodland walking trails, running and cycling routes, coffee shops and pub and restaurant, The Churchill Tree. 

SAP celebrated the move with a launch event to welcome colleagues and partners to its new base.  Speaking at the event, Michiel Verhoeven SAP UK MD, said: “The North West has a thriving talent pool and creates huge opportunities for the tech sector. Our growing commitment to the UK as a whole means investing in the right people and the right locations, Alderley Park helps us achieve both of those. We are committed to be at the heart of change for our customers and partners. By bringing together our teams in the North West under one roof their dedication and commitment will be integral to us thriving.” 

Bradley Topps, Commercial Director, Bruntwood SciTech said: “Alderley Park is a UK leader of science and technology innovation, and the flourishing digital community at Glasshouse is a major contributor to this reputation.   

“Glasshouse is the ideal fit for those seeking collaboration, networking and access to top talent. We’re all incredibly excited to officially welcome SAP to their new northern home and look forward to working closely with them as the hub continues to evolve.” 

Glasshouse, which opened in February 2020, is already home to over 80 companies, offering a rare combination of connectivity, space and a programme of community and business support led events. Colliers advised SAP on the move.