Last chance to register for Heathrow’s Glasgow Meet the Buyer event

6 Sep 2018

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With the planning for Heathrow expansion already underway, Heathrow is lining up SMEs from across the UK to help deliver the multi-billion-pound project.

SMEs already play a crucial role in Heathrow’s supply chain – with the airport spending over £1.5 billion annually with more than 1,400 suppliers from around the UK – and their role is set to grow with the expansion. Construction of the new runway will become the UK’s largest infrastructure project and SMEs will be critical to delivering the £14 billion investment.

The Business Summits will be series of ‘speed-dating’ sessions which will give Scottish businesses access to Heathrow’s largest suppliers. The face-to-face meetings are designed to give SMEs a chance to cement relationships and forge new connections with some of the UK’s largest suppliers which could also be leveraged for further work outside of Heathrow’s expansion project.

Scottish Chambers of Commerce President, Tim Allan, said: “Heathrow plays a vital role in the economy, helping Scottish firms to grow and thrive, and connect with international markets. This Summit gives a unique opportunity for Scottish SMEs to meet face-to-face with Heathrow’s biggest suppliers and forge new business connections.

“Heathrow spends over £1.5bn through its supply chain each year and the multi-billion-pound expansion project will provide many procurement opportunities for Scottish firms. The excellent range of suppliers, including World Duty Free, Balfour Beatty, Mace, and Babcock, are eager to meet with Scottish companies – a testament to the innovation, quality and track record of Scottish firms.

“We look forward to welcoming Scottish businesses to the Summit to seize the many business opportunities that lie ahead.”

Heathrow chief executive John Holland-Kaye, said: “To build and operate a world class airport that also acts as Britain’s front door, Heathrow relies on talent and innovation from right across the UK. Scotland has the skills and business strength that is needed right throughout our supply chain, from construction to commercial, which is why we look forward to launching the 3rd annual Scottish Business Summit and introducing more innovative businesses to our supply chain.”