Last week, the confirmation finally came: Universal Studios Great Britain is planning to build Europe’s largest theme park right here in Bedfordshire.
After months of speculation and cautious optimism, NBCUniversal and its parent company, Comcast, have revealed detailed plans for a world-class resort spanning nearly 500 acres of the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks site. The news, now supported by both Bedford Borough Council and the UK Government, represents one of the most significant private sector investments in the UK tourism and entertainment industry in decades.
The proposed resort, dubbed Universal Studios Great Britain, is projected to attract over 8.5 million visitors per year once operational and could inject close to £50 billion into the UK economy by 2055. The park will feature immersive rides, film-themed attractions, retail experiences, and hotels — all geared to compete with the likes of Disneyland Paris. But this is more than a theme park story. It’s a story about regeneration, growth, and new horizons for British enterprise.
According to the Universal UK Project website, the company has already acquired the land and begun the planning process in earnest. Government backing has secured the project’s position as a nationally significant infrastructure development. The site’s proximity to London, as well as key UK motorways and rail lines, makes it a strategic location. And with a planned opening date as early as 2031, the wheels are already in motion.
This isn’t just a boost for Bedford. It’s a signal to the world that the UK is still a premier destination for investment, innovation, and world-class experiences. Local businesses, SMEs, and entrepreneurs should see this as more than a headline — it’s a once-in-a-generation chance to align with a transformative economic engine.
For small and medium-sized businesses in the UK, particularly those based in the East of England, the arrival of Universal Studios represents a window of opportunity. Projects of this scale don’t just build tourism — they reshape local economies. They generate long-term demand for suppliers, tradespeople, marketers, hospitality providers, consultants, and countless other services.
So, now that the dust has settled and the future is coming into focus, what does this all mean for business owners today? Let’s break it down.
Industries Poised for Growth
While the most obvious gains will be in tourism, the knock-on effects across multiple industries will be profound. Here are the sectors that are most likely to benefit from Universal Studios Great Britain— and why now is the time to act:
1. Construction & Skilled Trades
The construction phase alone will demand thousands of workers and tonnes of materials. From groundwork and infrastructure to interiors and landscaping, there will be demand for local contractors, tradespeople, and specialist suppliers. SMEs in these areas should be preparing now by upskilling teams, scaling operations, or investing in machinery and logistics.
2. Hospitality, Food & Accommodation
With millions of visitors expected annually, the need for hotels, restaurants, cafes, catering services, and even pop-up experiences will explode. Businesses that position themselves early as go-to venues or suppliers will reap the long-term rewards. The same goes for recruitment agencies supplying hospitality staff.
3. Transport & Logistics
Getting people and goods in and out of the area — efficiently and frequently — will be critical. Local firms offering private hire, shuttle services, last-mile delivery, and freight services could see major demand spikes. Fleet expansion, tech upgrades, and partnerships may be needed to scale quickly.
4. Creative, Marketing & Digital Services
This will be one of the most media-heavy developments in the UK for the next decade. Content creators, videographers, graphic designers, advertising agencies, and web developers will be in demand for everything from local promotions to global campaigns. There’s also scope for AR/VR firms, experiential marketers, and social media consultants to get involved.
5. Retail & Consumer Services
The surrounding areas are likely to experience a retail uplift, especially in Bedford town centre. Pop-up shops, themed merchandise, entertainment venues, and convenience services will thrive. Independent retailers have a golden opportunity to ride the wave of increased footfall.
6. Education, Training & Recruitment
With thousands of jobs being created, training providers, colleges, and skills academies will be instrumental in preparing the local workforce. Recruitment firms will also be vital in sourcing talent across hospitality, tech, security, construction, and beyond.
7. Events, Conferences & Entertainment
Large-scale developments like Universal Studios Great Britain naturally attract a surge in conferences, expos, launch events, and community celebrations — both during the construction phase and well beyond. From stakeholder briefings to fan conventions and trade shows, Bedford and the surrounding areas will become a hotspot for gatherings of all sizes.
How Small Businesses Can Prepare Today for Universal Studios Great Britain
Even with 2031 some years away, businesses that start planning now will be better positioned to thrive. That might mean:
- Investing in new tools, vehicles, or premises
- Hiring and training staff in advance
- Creating marketing strategies that target the Bedford development
- Building relationships with councils, BID groups, and development bodies
- Collaborating with other SMEs to offer bundled or cross-functional services
This isn’t about waiting for the boom to begin. It’s about laying the foundation now — financially, operationally, and strategically — so you’re ready when the momentum hits.
Finance as a Growth Lever
We know that growth often requires funding — and that’s where Funding Pool can help.
We work with UK SMEs every day to help them access the capital needed to unlock opportunities. Whether it’s a short-term working capital loan, asset finance for new equipment, or funding to hire your next five employees, our team is here to support your next move.
We’re based in Bedford, and we’re as excited about this development as you are. More than just a financial provider, we’re a partner in progress — and we’re here to help you make the most of what’s coming.
Let’s Build the Future Together
Universal Studios Great Britain is more than a theme park. It’s a beacon of growth, energy, and possibility — and your business can be a part of it.
Thinking about how to position your business for the Universal Bedford boom?
Contact us about finance for your business today >
Sources: Blooloop, Universal UK Project, BBC News, BBC
