For UK and Irish companies expanding into the United States, success often hinges on one key factor: how quickly and efficiently you can reach your customers, suppliers, and partners. That’s where Pennsylvania sets itself apart, offering not only an unbeatable location on the eastern seaboard, but also the infrastructure and support systems that make it a true gateway for global trade.
Pennsylvania sits in a sweet spot geographically, right in the heart of the US Northeast corridor. From a base here, you can access almost 40% of the US population and over half of Canada’s within a day’s drive. Major metropolitan areas like New York City, Washington D.C., Boston, and even Chicago and Toronto are all within easy reach. For companies distributing products or servicing clients across North America, this creates a unique advantage: less time on the road or in transit, and more time focused on growth.
But proximity is only part of the story. Pennsylvania backs this up with a world-class transport network. Its three deep-water ports at Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Erie, connecting businesses to international shipping routes. Its six international airports offer direct cargo and passenger services to the rest of the US and Europe. And with more freight railroads than any other state in the country, goods can move quickly in every direction. Overlay this with more than 120,000 miles of highway and a direct link into every major East Coast corridor, and you have an integrated, multimodal system designed for modern commerce.
For UK and Irish exporters, this means smoother logistics, better cost control, and faster turnaround times. It also means a more affordable and practical alternative to high-cost cities like New York or Boston. In Pennsylvania, the same access comes with lower warehousing and transport costs, reduced congestion, and a skilled workforce already embedded in supply chain and logistics industries.
What makes Pennsylvania even more appealing is its business mindset. The state’s agencies actively support international trade, with a dedicated team offering practical advice and hands-on assistance for new market entrants. Whether it’s introductions to logistics partners, support with customs and compliance, or help navigating grants and incentives, foreign companies are met with a clear message: you are welcome here, and we’ll help you succeed.
For companies whose business model depends on market reach, Pennsylvania delivers. It’s centrally placed, globally connected, and ready to move at the pace you need. Whether you’re distributing goods, coordinating regional hubs, or scaling your supply chain into the US, Pennsylvania doesn’t just give you access, it gives you an edge.