Gulfstream Aerospace has announced the relocation of its European headquarters to Farnborough.

The US-owned manufacturer will move its UK workforce of around 300 to Farnborough with the aim of almost doubling that number in the next three years. The company will also join the Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC).

The move follows consideration of a number of potential locations across the continent.

David Barnes, chief executive of the FAC – South East Aerospace said: “Gulfstream is a major global player with more than 13,000 workers and its European operation is valuable to the continent. We are delighted it’s moving its headquarters to Farnborough where of course we have the bi-annual air show.

“Hampshire and the South East is also the UK’s main hub for the aerospace sector with thousands of companies in the industry or working in its supply chain. We represent our members’ interests and speak with a powerful voice – and never has there been a more pressing need for our influence and experience.”

Move follows “exhaustive research” across Europe

Gulfstream’s general manager in the UK, Steve Plumridge, said: “We will be moving to Farnborough in June next year following exhaustive research that took us across Europe looking for the right location. Farnborough offers what we need and joining FAC was an easy decision to make. We look forward to meeting other FAC members and doing our bit for the ongoing success of the UK’s aerospace sector.

“We presently have around 300 staff in the UK, some of whom will be making the move to Farnborough. We intend to grow our workforce to nearly 600 in the three years following the relocation.”

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter