Downtown in Business (DIB) directors Frank McKenna and Chris McKenna joined senior business leaders and policymakers in Westminster last week for a special event hosted by Make UK and Heathrow Airport. The gathering focused on strengthening partnerships between large corporations and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) to drive innovation, growth, and regional economic prosperity.
As the voice of UK manufacturing, Make UK champions British industry, representing thousands of businesses across engineering, manufacturing, and technology. Their work highlights the vital role manufacturing plays in the UK’s economy and supports firms in navigating challenges and seizing new opportunities.
Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest international hubs, contributes £28 billion annually to the UK economy and supports over 114,000 jobs directly and indirectly nationwide. As part of its ambitious future growth plans, Heathrow is determined to work with SMEs across the country to build a more resilient, diverse, and innovative supply chain.
Frank McKenna, Chief Executive of Downtown in Business, said:
“Heathrow is not just a gateway to the world; it’s a critical driver of UK growth and jobs. Its commitment to engaging SMEs is exactly the kind of inclusive economic agenda we champion at Downtown. We’re delighted to be working with Heathrow as a Downtown partner, helping to connect them with dynamic businesses from across our city regions.”
Chris McKenna, Group Operations Director of DIB, added:
“This event highlighted the incredible potential for collaboration between major players like Heathrow and the SME community. Downtown is perfectly placed to help progress this agenda, ensuring that businesses from across our network can access opportunities and contribute to Heathrow’s future success.”
Through its partnership with Heathrow Airport, Downtown in Business will continue to facilitate conversations and connections between leading corporates and ambitious SMEs across the UK, supporting regional growth and the national economy.
