Home to over 124,600 businesses, Lille and its region have a diverse, fast-growing economy that reflects the energy and resilience of Northern France as a whole. Strengths in industry, farming and trade draw on century-long traditions and a store of cultural and human expertise.

Accounting for over 5% of national GDP, Northern France has the country’s no. 4 regional economy, and ranks third in both exports and industry. Top-tier clusters in automobiles, rail, logistics, agrifood, health & biotech and more testify to its diversity, and underscore its ability to adapt quickly to a fast-moving environment.

Lille is also the European capital of mail order through businesses including La Redoute, Les 3 Suisses, Quelles France and other key players, and has headquarters for major retailers.

Finally, it is France’s third-largest financial center, with skills on tap to meet demanding businesses’ needs. They include over 600 certified public accountants and representatives of major international auditors. Diversified banking services are available from over 80 financial institutions, and the city is the focus of a regional stockmarket center as well as France’s second largest insurance center with the head offices of La Mondial and Lloyd Continental.

Together these resources reflect the industrial and trading clout of Northern France, along with its place in and commitment to Europe.