Capital at risk
Great British Growth
Great British Growth invests in UK public companies whose exceptional growth potential is also especially valuable to the future of the UK economy. We want your capital to deliver twice, by growing your investments and helping to build a more prosperous Britain.
Investing in British Growth
Great British Growth invests for the long term in world-class UK companies that drive our domestic economy. Their growth strengthens communities and underpins Britain’s future prosperity.
Great British Growth
Investment manager James Smith introduces Baillie Gifford’s Great British Growth strategy, and explains why he’s excited about the UK’s most innovative companies.
Outstanding research, outstanding ownership
Only a few companies have the potential to make a real difference, so we choose our portfolio with great care.
We build a deep understanding of each business: its growth opportunities, competitive strengths and commitment to the long term. And we ask how its success can contribute positively to the UK economy.
Ownership matters. Companies achieve more when backed by patient, supportive shareholders. Too often that support has been missing in Britain. That’s why we commit to being long-term, engaged partners - encouraging ambition and helping to create lasting value for both investors and the wider economy.
Building a brighter shared future
- We invest in a diverse mix of UK growth companies, some of which will grow rapidly, and others will compound over time.
- The portfolio comprises 30-40 holdings that we believe can deliver long-term value.
- Our differentiated approach results in a portfolio distinct from the broader UK equity index with high active share.
The UK is home to world-class, growing companies whose success is at the heart of our shared future prosperity. I want our clients to share that success and support it as high-quality long-term owners.
Meet the managers
James Smith
Investment ManagerJames is an investment manager in the UK Equity Team. He is co-manager of the UK Core Strategy and lead manager for Great British Growth. James joined Baillie Gifford in 2022, and prior to joining the firm, worked as a senior investment manager at ADIA in Abu Dhabi covering UK Equities. He began his career at Martin Currie in Edinburgh in 2012. James graduated BSc (Hons) in Economics from UCL in 2010.
Thinking about next steps?
We’re here to answer your questions and help you find the right fit from our range of investment capabilities and services.
Local authorities
We have over 30 years of experience serving local government pension schemes (LGPS) and manage assets for more LGPS clients than any other active manager.
Insights
Key articles, videos and podcasts relating to the strategy:
Filters
Insights
Growing Growth
Why investing in UK public companies matters.
Great British Growth
Investment manager James Smith introduces Baillie Gifford’s Great British Growth strategy.
The 'aha!' moment
Inside our insight engine: how cognitive diversity and curiosity help us find standout growth companies.
The power of purpose
Why firms with a passion to improve customers’ lives do better.
Actual investing revisited
In this keynote paper Partner Stuart Dunbar reaffirms the importance of active management to healthy capitalism.
UK growth: opportunities amid tariff turbulence
How adaptable firms in growth-driving sectors can prosper over the long term despite trade restrictions.
Joiners’ mate
Iain McCombie on how Howdens’ kitchens won the building trade’s trust.
Great British Growth
Investment manager James Smith introduces Baillie Gifford’s Great British Growth strategy, and explains why he’s excited about the UK’s most innovative companies.
Related insights
Growing Growth
Why investing in UK public companies matters.Great British Growth
Investment manager James Smith introduces Baillie Gifford’s Great British Growth strategy.The 'aha!' moment
Inside our insight engine: how cognitive diversity and curiosity help us find standout growth companies.The power of purpose
Why firms with a passion to improve customers’ lives do better.Actual investing revisited
In this keynote paper Partner Stuart Dunbar reaffirms the importance of active management to healthy capitalism.UK growth: opportunities amid tariff turbulence
How adaptable firms in growth-driving sectors can prosper over the long term despite trade restrictions.Joiners’ mate
Iain McCombie on how Howdens’ kitchens won the building trade’s trust.
Thinking about next steps?
We’re here to answer your questions and help you find the right fit from our range of investment capabilities and services.
Local authorities
We have over 30 years of experience serving local government pension schemes (LGPS) and manage assets for more LGPS clients than any other active manager.
Thinking about next steps?
We’re here to answer your questions and help you find the right fit from our range of investment capabilities and services.