Liverpool, England Hotels and City Guide

Liverpool - Business Tips

Liverpool's Local Economy

Liverpool has one of the largest economies in the UK, although this wasn’t true twenty years ago. The city underwent an economic revival in the 1990s, culminating with it being named the European Capital of Culture in 2008. As a result, Liverpool has seen massive recent investment, particularly in the leisure centre with several large-scale shopping centres being built.

Today Liverpool is one of the top five retail destinations in the UK, an accolade which has helped to secure its place as one of the UK’s top tourist destinations for both local and overseas visitors.

While tourism plays a major role in Liverpool’s overall economy, the city’s main industry is the service sector, such as banking, finance, education and health. This is quite a change from Liverpool’s economic beginnings, as it was originally a port town with a strong manufacturing industry.

Business Etiquette in Liverpool

Dress Code
Much like business in London, the appropriate dress depends on the industry. For example banking and legal sectors will almost always require a suit however other industries such as media may be more informal. If in doubt, pack a smart jacket just in case.

Greetings
It is custom to refer to people by their first name unless they occupy a very senior position in the company, for example a Vice-President or Chairman. In the latter instance, it would be polite to refer to them as Mrs, Mr or Miss with their surname unless they ask you to refer to them by their first name. A firm handshake is the most suitable gesture for greeting men and women.

Smoking
Most offices, restaurants and shopping areas have a strict No Smoking policy on all indoor or enclosed areas.

Business Hours
Most office-based businesses are open during the week from 9am until 6pm. Shopping outlets are for similar hours during the weekdays, and from 9am until 6pm or later on weekends. Some shops open late on a Sunday (circa 10am) or not at all. Banks are open during the week from 9am and close at about 5pm. Bigger branches may open on a Saturday but most other branches will be closed. 

Hotels in Liverpool, England