Cardiff – Comprehensive Overview of the City, PEST Analysis and Key Industries Including Technology, Tourism and Hospitality, Construction and Retail

“City Profile – Cardiff” provides historical and forecast data on key city level metrics along with analytical coverage of the latest political, economic, social, technological, infrastructural, legal and environmental issues affecting Cardiff.

The report contains detailed tourism, retail, construction, technology and public infrastructure data and insight into economic, social, and industry trends.

Cardiff’s metropolitan economy has expanded in recent years, underpinned by major investment, strong UK and international connectivity, and growing clusters in finance, creative industries, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. In 2025 it generated 1.40% of UK GDP, with real GDP growth accelerating to 1.24% (from 0.90% in 2024) and nominal GDP rising to GBP42.6bn, though its 2026-35 average growth forecast of 1.21% trails Birmingham, Liverpool, and Manchester. The economy remains service-led (72.17% of GVA and 81.84% of employment), while unemployment increased to 5.2% in 2025 amid a softer labour market, but is projected to ease to 4.4% by 2035. Cardiff Council’s Corporate Plan 2025-28 prioritises regeneration, skills, affordable housing, transport and green infrastructure, and climate action to support inclusive, sustainable growth despite ongoing affordability and workforce challenges.

Scope

Cardiff is a year-round leisure and business destination anchored by major sports and culture, and as Wales’ capital and primary international gateway is estimated to account for around 30% of Wales’ tourism economy by visitor spend and trip volume; tourism supports around 25,000 local jobs directly and indirectly.

Visitor performance strengthened in 2024-25, supported by a strong events calendar and city-center investment: international overnight visits rose to 325,000 in 2024 (+4% YoY) and spend increased to GBP174.0 million, while 2025 trends indicate “value over volume” with footfall down ~6% but spending per trip up (average revenue per customer +3.8% and transaction value +2.5%).

Cardiff’s construction sector remains a key growth engine, with GVA rising 6.5% in 2025 to GBP2.8 billion and projected to grow at 4.1% on average during 2026-35 (adding GBP4.2 billion to GVA by 2035), supported by major regeneration and infrastructure projects, though delivery will depend on planning, funding, and transport capacity.

Reasons to buy

Analyze and understand the business environment in the city to align your investment and expansion strategies.

The report helps to drive a conclusion in choosing a suitable city to invest or expand according to your business structure. Explore new opportunities in the hospitality, tourism, construction, real estate and retail sectors.

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