Global tech firm LogChain is swapping Singapore for Liverpool in a move that will bring jobs and growth to Merseyside.
The digital shipping technology firm has selected Liverpool, a port city and historic trade hub, as its new headquarters.
Announcing the move, the government says it signals a vote of confidence in its Trade Strategy, launched last year.
LogChain’s innovative technology helps companies worldwide cut costs, speed up shipments and build more efficient supply chains by replacing outdated, paper‑heavy shipping processes with secure, legally recognised digital documentation.
British companies are now primed to take advantage thanks to the move, which will also see up to £4 million invested by LogChain in the Liverpool City Region over the next three years.
“LogChain’s decision to set up shop in Liverpool is a clear vote of confidence in the UK and the North West as we build the most innovative trading environment in the world,” said Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle.
“This move strengthens our tech ecosystem, boosts future exports, and shows the UK is the place to be for cutting edge digital trade.
“The UK was the first G7 country to put electronic trade documents on the same level footing as paper documents, leading the way in modern global trade and strengthening our tech sector which is worth around £1 trillion.”
The government has already struck a digital partnership with South Korea and launched a landmark Digital Trade Corridor pilot with Germany and France.
Such benefits were demonstrated through a UK-backed trade digitalisation pilot between the UK, Singapore, and Thailand which cut shipping times by up to 40% and brought productivity increases of up to 67%, it said.
LogChain helped deliver the world’s first fully digitalised goods shipment in 2023 with a ship making its way from Burnley to Singapore processed without any physical customs documents.
LogChain CEO Andie McKeown said: “The UK’s long-standing leadership in global trade is now reinforced by the legal foundations needed for the next era of digital commerce.
“LogChain has already executed the world’s first fully digitalised movement of goods, and by relocating our global headquarters to the UK we’re committing to scale trusted, interoperable digital trade infrastructure from a market that is setting the benchmark.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “I’m really proud that LogChain has chosen the Liverpool City Region as its UK base. We’re a place that ‘gets’ trade, logistics and technology, and we’re serious about backing companies that are shaping the future of global commerce.
“Moves like this help bring good jobs to the region and strengthen our links with the rest of the world.”
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