SMEs bid to join Heathrow's supply chain
The Heathrow Business Summit welcomed over 200 small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) yesterday, that were seeking to join Heathrow Airport's supply chain as the event celebrates its 20th anniversary. SMEs from West London, Surrey and the Thames Valley took part in speed-dating sessions with the airport’s business partners, using the opportunity to tender their products and services to Heathrow’s major contractors.
The event was kick-started with a breakfast hosted by Ian Ballentine, Heathrow’s Procurement Director.
Ian Ballentine said: “Heathrow is a cornerstone of the UK’s economic security, connecting businesses of all sizes with international markets across the globe.
“As a national asset, we are in a unique position to connect SMEs to local, national and international markets, and with expansion we now have the opportunity to do even more. Heathrow expansion will create up to £211 billion in economic growth and up to 180,000 jobs across the UK.”
The Heathrow Business Summit, held at the airport, follows three other summits held in Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester earlier in the year – giving businesses from every corner of the UK the opportunity to become an official supplier of Heathrow.