It is no longer just the "second city" or a regional powerhouse; Manchester is rapidly cementing its status as a global capital of creativity, technology, and luxury.

We are seeing a wave of investment that is transforming the skyline and the street level alike. From major international hospitality brands to booming tech clusters, the city is attracting attention from all the right places.

The Skyline Shapers: Renaker and Salboy

You cannot talk about Manchester’s transformation without mentioning the developers who are quite literally reshaping the clouds. The skyline has changed faster in the last five years than in the previous fifty, largely thanks to a "race to the top" between local giants Renaker and Salboy.

Renaker’s 'New Jackson' District Renaker has effectively created a new neighbourhood from scratch. If you look up at the southern end of Deansgate, their impact is undeniable. They gave us the iconic Deansgate Square towers, and they haven't slowed down since.

New additions like The Blade and Elizabeth Tower have added a sharp, modern aesthetic to the city's profile, while the cylindrical Three60 tower is already becoming a landmark. These aren't just apartments; they are building a dedicated skyscraper district—dubbed "New Jackson"—that feels more akin to Chicago or Toronto than traditional Manchester.

Salboy’s Bold Vision Meanwhile, Salboy is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the city centre. Their Viaduxproject is an engineering marvel, rising elegantly above the Grade II listed railway arches near Manchester Central. It is a stunning blend of the city's industrial heritage and its glass-and-steel future.

Salboy is also the force behind the long-awaited St Michael’s development. In partnership with Gary Neville’s Relentless, this project is set to revitalise Jackson’s Row, bringing not just Grade A office space but a 5-star standard of living that rivals any capital city in Europe.

The Arrival of Global Heavyweights

For years, rumours swirled about when—or if—certain prestigious London staples would make their way North. Thanks to the groundwork laid by these developers, those questions have been answered with a resounding yes.

Just last week, Soho House finally opened its doors in the historic Old Granada Studios. This is a significant moment for the city’s creative sector. It is not just a members' club; it is a signal that Manchester’s creative community is vibrant enough to support a world-class hub for collaboration.

Perhaps the most exciting news comes from Salboy’s latest phases. They are bringing the world-renowned Nobu Hotel and Residences to the city as part of the Viadux Phase 2 tower. Standing at a projected 76 storeys, this will likely become the tallest building in the UK outside London.

Simultaneously, the St Michael’s development will host the W Hotel, another global luxury heavyweight. The presence of brands like these speaks volumes about the confidence international investors have in Manchester’s economy. It suggests a growing demand for high-end experiences that matches the city's upward trajectory in the tech and digital sectors.

A Digital and Creative Powerhouse

While the hospitality boom grabs the headlines, the engine driving this growth is the city’s thriving digital ecosystem. Manchester has been officially recognised as the UK’s Top Digital Tech City, with a £5 billion ecosystem that rivals European capitals.

At Clicky, we see this first-hand. The talent pool here is exceptional, fuelled by world-leading universities and a culture of "getting things done." The influx of big names creates a virtuous cycle. Top talent stays in the North because the opportunities—and the lifestyle—are right here.

What This Means for Business

For brands and businesses, Manchester’s rise offers a clear lesson: looking beyond London is no longer an option, but a necessity. The audience here is sophisticated, the investment is real, and the innovation is world-class.

We are incredibly excited to be part of this chapter in Manchester’s history. The city is growing up, but it hasn’t lost the gritty, welcoming spirit that makes it unique.

Whether you are a local business looking to scale or a national brand eyeing up the North, there has never been a better time to be in Manchester.