The Conservative Party has endured more defections in recent months than Manchester United have had managers. Nadine Dorries, Jake Berry, Nadhim Zahawi, and now Robert Jenrick—all trotting off to Reform UK with the solemn swagger of statespeople making a principled stand.
Downtown in Business has said that 2026 represents a defining moment for Birmingham, urging the city to adopt a more assertive, outward-facing and growth-driven approach as it seeks to reset its image and re-establish itself as the undisputed economic hub of the West Midlands.
Downtown in Business today announced the addition of Martin Liptrot as its new Director of Strategic Partnerships, strengthening the organisation’s leadership team as it continues to expand its influence, membership, and national footprint.
Birmingham Airport (BHX) ended 2025 on a high with a record month for passenger traffic in December. 943,889 passengers travelled through the airport in December 2025 – a 6.6% increase compared to the same period last year.
In a special joint blog with Liverpool Business Improvement District boss, Bill Addy, Frank discusses the governments Business Rates Change and asks how it will affect the hospitality industry.
Downtown in Business and Liverpool Business Improvement District have written an open letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer raising serious concerns about the current design of business rates reform.
We are delighted that Park Regis Birmingham is our Venue of the Month for January 2026. Park Regis Birmingham is a contemporary hotel offering luxury, comfort and versatility for both leisure stays and events.
We are delighted that AtkinsRéalis are our Business of the Month for January 2026. AtkinsRéalis, a world-leading design, engineering and project management organization.
The campaign will bring together business leaders, BIDs, hotels, retailers, cultural venues, and parliamentarians to press government for a more pro-growth, business-led approach to supporting the visitor economy.
In this episode DIB boss Frank McKenna chats with Sarah Matts from Hyatt Regency in Manchester and Annabel Lax from INNSiDE By Meliá Manchester.
The Government has announced £2 million in new support to help SMEs cut costs through sustainable tech investment. Downtown in Business backs the move, highlighting its importance for boosting efficiency and business growth.
Downtown in Business has announced that Starship is the latest high-growth, innovation-driven company to join its national sponsor network — a partnership set to supercharge Starship’s profile, connections, and influence across the UK’s major growth regions.
