World leading IT infrastructure services provider, Kyndryl, has unveiled plans for a significant new tech hub in Liverpool, set to generate up to 1,000 jobs. Initially hinted at by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer last month, the global IT giant has now officially declared its intentions for the city-based hub, which is expected to spawn around 1,000 software engineering and AI-related roles locally over the next three years.
The US firm saysthat its latest venture will 'drive AI and technology innovation in the Liverpool City Region. While the exact location of the new hub within the city remains under wraps, Kyndryl has shed more light on its vision for Liverpool today.
Spearheaded by Kyndryl Consult, the forthcoming tech hub will feature a Kyndryl Vital Studio. The company explained that the studio will provide 'a designer-led, open and collaborative co-creation experience that will allow customers to tackle complex and real-world business challenges.
The company added: "Kyndryl Consult's advisory services will help businesses adopt and implement AI, software and platform engineering solutions and other emerging technologies."
In line with the hub's inauguration, Kyndryl is broadening its alliance with The Very Group, the Liverpool-based operator of digital retailers Very and Littlewoods, via a fresh multiyear agreement. Kyndryl will be offering software and platform engineering support, reports .
John Chambers, president of Kyndryl United Kingdom and Ireland, has lauded Liverpool's burgeoning status as a digital powerhouse, a reputation bolstered by the success of last year's International AI Summit. He said: "Liverpool's growing reputation as a hub for digital excellence – reinforced by the success of last year's International AI Summit – underscores our decision to invest in the region's exceptional talent. This step, as well as Kyndryl's expansion of our relationship with The Very Group, reflects Kyndryl's commitment to nurturing the skills needed to accelerate AI adoption, advance digital transformation and drive meaningful economic growth across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ."
The º£½ÇÊÓƵ government has welcomed the news.
Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, said: "Kyndryl's new technology hub in Liverpool is a clear example of how AI is already driving economic growth, delivering our plan for change by putting AI to work for communities across the country. This investment is a resounding vote of confidence in our world-leading AI sector and the new blueprint for the technology we're delivering."
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, who had previously met with Kyndryl executives during a US visit last year, expressed his delight: "This is fantastic news for the Liverpool City Region and proof of what we can achieve when local ambition is backed by national support to attract global investment.
"I'm really pleased that we've been able to bring Kyndryl here, following discussions during our trade mission to New York last year. AI and digital technology are already transforming industries across the country – and I want our region to be at the forefront of that change.
"We've got the talent, the infrastructure, and the ambition to make sure the benefits of this tech revolution aren't just felt in London and the south east, but right here in the north too. This investment will create good, well-paid jobs and give people the skills they need to succeed in the industries of the future. It's a massive boost for our economy – but more importantly, it's an investment in our people and their potential. The Liverpool City Region is ready to lead the way."
