UMi helps East London SMEs to secure millions of pounds worth of business
UMi helps East London SMEs to secure millions of pounds worth of business
Millions of pounds worth of new business is set to be secured by small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) following a local event, organised by UMi.
London City Airport’s Meet the Buyer and East London Business Summit, held on 30th November at the London Stadium, connected over 150 SMEs to larger organisations and enabled them to learn about tender opportunities and build connections.
Buyers hosted in excess of 800 meetings with suppliers to discuss the work that the airport and other large local businesses – including Canary Wharf Group, Tate & Lyle and Lendlease – will need completed in the upcoming months throughout their supply chain.
Former apprentice winner and entrepreneur Tim Campbell MBE, who grew up in East London, gave the keynote address, where he spoke to local SMEs about how to grow a business whilst overcoming the variety of challenges usually faced by SMEs. Campbell was awarded the MBE for Enterprise Culture in the 2012 New Year’s Honours List and is the founder of his own entrepreneurial social enterprise, Bright Ideas Trust.
Tim Campbell MBE, said: “It’s fantastic to be part of London City Airport’s East London business event, particularly having grown up in the area and overcome many of the challenges we discussed today myself.”
“It’s a difficult climate for growing a business – and this year has been especially tough – so events like these, which enable entrepreneurs and business leaders to come together, are more important than ever.”
Wilma Allan, Chief Financial Officer, London City Airport, said: “We are dedicated to supporting the local economy and helping SMEs to thrive, and these events are crucial to facilitating growth in the business community.
“In previous years the events have been highly successful in creating new work for local businesses, including over £5m worth of business deals done at the 2022 event, and so we’re excited see what this year has in store.”
Suzi McCreedy, Chief Commercial Officer at UMi, said: "What an amazing day was had at London City Airport’s Meet the Buyer and East London Business Summit – packed with opportunities to develop relationships and win business from major buyers from across East London. With more than 600 sales appointments taking place in one day, the economic impact from this event is immense and a real boost to businesses.
“Working once again with London City Airport and partners to develop the local supply chain, connecting local businesses with opportunities, improving their confidence, capability and competitiveness makes us really proud and it’s a perfect example of what UMi are all about – making it easier for business to do more and go further.”