What makes for a great place of work? Work-life balance? Fair pay? Good annual, maternity and paternity leave? Colleagues and bosses, or company culture? While people have different preferences, the workers of the UK have spoken, crowning the best places to work in the UK. The Sunday Times ‘Best Places To Work 2026’ list has been announced, with a few Glasgow-based businesses on the list!
The famous list is created in partnership with WorkL, celebrating organisations that are setting the benchmark for outstanding workplaces, wellbeing and inclusion across the UK. Spanning over 25 industry sectors, the selection was created based on a survey of more than 200,000 staff.
We’re talking employers creating meaningful connections with their staff, hybrid working, fair pay, career development opportunities and “thoughtful fringe benefits”. What is more, the survey examined each workplace on its psychological safety, staff training and trust in managers. Oh, and let’s not forget those health benefits, such as gym memberships, health insurance, “subsidised fertility treatment and targeted provision for the menopause”, as well as the ability to bring you furry pal to work.
The best Glasgow-based places to work in the UK for 2026
Four Glasgow-based businesses were recognised as the best places to work in the UK for 2026 by The Sunday Times.
Crisholm Hunter
Trading since 1857, Crisholm Hunter is standing strong as a family-owned diamond merchant and luxury jeweller. The list said: “This family-owned diamond merchant and luxury jeweller knows its staff are precious. The Glasgow-based company, which has been trading since 1857, employs 320 people across 27 stores in England and Scotland and its support centre.
In-house training schemes and specialist courses help staff polish their skills, and career prospects are good — more than 80 per cent of managers have been promoted from within. The company boasts a zero gender pay gap, and performance bonuses, personalised incentives and staff awards recognise contributions.”
Jack Ryan
The marketing and advertising industry has Glasgow-based small company Jack Ryan as one of the best places to work in the UK for 2026. The list stated: “Like its CIA analyst namesake, this JACK RYAN believes in the power of data and intelligence. The Glasgow independent media agency uses real-time data, neuroscience and AI to create targeted media plans for clients, including the NHS and the British Council.
The 22 staff work four days a week and receive regular training and development opportunities, with some pursuing funded PhDs. Perks include a £500 dental cashback scheme, gym membership discounts and a rental deposit scheme.”
Maryhill Housing
The non-profit sector has been nicely represented on the list, including our very own Maryhill Housing. And look at all that annual leave! The Sunday Times said: “This Glasgow nonprofit prides itself on being a proper community, with its 111 employees able to dip into a free-for-all pantry full of food and personal hygiene products.
Other perks include flexible and hybrid working, 40 days combined annual leave (including public holidays) and an employee assistance programme. A twice-yearly engagement survey is followed by “you said, we did” updates. Former colleagues keep coming back to work there because they miss it.”
Scottish Friendly Assurance
Well, that’s a truly friendly addition, with Scottish Friendly Assurance being just as good as it sounds in the financial sector. Also, free hot chocolate at work? Yes, please! The list said: “Friendly by name, friendly by nature. This Glasgow mutual, which offers insurance, pensions and savings products, prides itself on a people-centred culture.
The organisation has 356 workers and has announced a merger with OneFamily in Brighton, due to complete next year. Staff benefits include flexible working, no weekend or evening shifts, a good pension scheme and private healthcare. An employee group celebrates meaningful dates for diverse cultures, and there are treats like hot chocolate on chilly days.”
Zoe Thomas, Editor of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work, said: “In an evolving world of work, Britain’s leading employers are helping staff forge careers that count today – and in the future. In turn, the Best Places to Work have the resilience to weather the current economic storms baked in, thanks to engaged workers who go above and beyond with a smile.
“Our winning employers span sizes and sectors – from tiny charities and specialist law firms, to multinational fast-food chains and utility giants, and everywhere in between. The thread joining them is the belief that a happy workforce is a stepping stone to better performance, faster growth, and bigger profits. More than that, there’s a collective instinct that a contented rank-and-file is a worthwhile business goal in and of itself.”
Lord Mark Price, Founder of WorkL, said: “I am delighted that more companies than ever entered this year’s Best Places to Work awards and more have been given winner’s medals. The scores are higher than last year showing a greater focus being put on how employees feel. All our research at WorkL clearly shows that happier workforces drive better commercial performance.”
You can find the full list here.
