Global media company The Economist Group has launched a new technology innovation unit in Birmingham – its first UK base outside of London – to support the development of its in-house technology capabilities.

Located at 60 Church Street, the company’s new offices will grow to house more than 45 jobs and will offer graduate and apprenticeship training opportunities.

The company chose Birmingham because of its impressive talent pool and established community of technologists.

“We did an exhaustive search to land in Birmingham, which will provide us with access to a pipeline of world-class technologists to join our team in support of The Economist’s world-class journalism,” said Andrew Williams, Chief Digital Officer, The Economist Group.

“As we work to grow our in-house technology team, we are committed to our future in Birmingham and are excited about the opportunities presented by the technology community there.”

An official launch event was held earlier in April to welcome the Group to the city. Organised by The Economist’s communications team in partnership with the West Midlands Growth Company, a number of regional journalists, technology professionals and local dignitaries attended, including Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street and Leader of Birmingham City Council Ian Ward.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor Street said: “The Economist’s commitment to the West Midlands is reflective of our wider growth strategy – one that places innovation and technology at its core; nurturing new ideas, creativity and bold ambition.

“With 5G on the horizon, we hope to welcome many more world-class brands like the Economist to the West Midlands”.