Senior representatives from Heathrow Airport visited the Black Country this week to strengthen connections with the region’s business community. Organised by the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, the visit included discussions on sustainability and Heathrow’s growth plans as well as direct engagement with local companies in its supply chain.
Heathrow’s Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, Nigel Milton, and External Affairs Lead, Sarah Ralphs, joined local business leaders at Himley Hall, where they provided insights on Heathrow’s vision for future growth and sustainability. Heathrow’s focus on minimising its environmental impact aligns with a broader mission to support UK regions like the Black Country, known for its robust manufacturing and supply contributions to the airport.
Nigel Milton commended the Black Country’s contributions, noting that “the Black Country plays a large role in manufacturing goods and providing services which Heathrow relies on.” He highlighted the region’s involvement in Heathrow’s journey towards becoming a more environmentally responsible and technologically advanced global hub. “We aim to become an extraordinary airport fit for the future,” Milton added, emphasising the need for collaboration with innovative local businesses.
Heathrow’s connections with the Black Country have grown through its Platinum membership in the Chamber of Commerce, a status that provides exclusive networking opportunities with business leaders and influencers in the region. This membership reflects Heathrow’s commitment to supporting UK businesses and fostering regional economic growth by partnering with local suppliers.
In addition to discussions at Himley Hall, Milton and Ralphs participated in a Q&A session where Chamber members explored potential procurement opportunities with Heathrow and the challenges of exporting. Ralphs shared guidance on tendering processes, highlighting that Heathrow is keen to welcome innovative contributions from smaller businesses. “We want to encourage innovation and bring small businesses into the larger supply chain,” she said.
Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse praised the event as a meaningful exchange of ideas. “Heathrow’s team showed great enthusiasm for understanding the impact of our regional businesses and for fostering collaboration. This event demonstrates the Chamber’s unique role in bridging diverse business interests to work towards shared goals.”
The visit included a tour of Zaun, a manufacturer in Wolverhampton that supplies mesh fencing for Heathrow. Milton and Ralphs met with Zaun’s Managing Director Alastair Henman and Operations Director Jack McGinty, who provided an overview of the business and a shopfloor tour showcasing production processes.
After lunch, the Heathrow representatives continued their tour, visiting Willenhall-based Mercia Lifting Gear, a specialist in crane and hoist technology. Both companies are long-standing members of Heathrow’s supply chain, contributing to the airport’s operational infrastructure.
Gail Arnold, the Chamber’s Head of Premium Membership, reflected on the significance of Heathrow’s engagement with the Black Country. “Heathrow provides crucial business links for our local companies, helping them access global markets, clients, and suppliers,” she said. “We’re pleased they are exploring further opportunities to collaborate with Chamber members and contribute to the region’s economic development.”