Public and private sector leaders from one of the South East’s most dynamic economic hubs are joining forces to return to the UK Real Estate, Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in May 2025. Building on the success of the 2024 initiative, the collaboration aims to present a unified one regional voice identity to attract vital investment and ensure long-term sustainable growth.
Against the backdrop of devolution and evolving government funding structures, a partnership led by London Gatwick, in association with the Gatwick Diamond Initiative, is spearheading efforts to create a distinct economic identity for the region surrounding the airport. This initiative seeks to position the Gatwick region as a prime destination for investment, fostering innovation, job creation, and economic resilience.
The collaborative approach to promoting the Gatwick region was further re-enforced at the London Gatwick Economic Summit on November 20 where London Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate unveiled plans to develop a Gatwick Region Airport Economic Zone (AEZ). The AEZ will consolidate the region’s identity to compete on a global stage, attract diverse industries, and secure long-term prosperity.
“UKREiiF has allowed us to showcase our collaborative approach to growing the region’s economy,” said Stewart Wingate. “We are excited to continue to work with the community and business leaders to leverage what has already been achieved, promote the many benefits of the region and attract future inward investment, both through UKREiiFF and the AEZ. This collaboration underscores Gatwick’s commitment to regional economic growth and sustainability.”
Brett North, CEO of the Gatwick Diamond Initiative, added: “We are delighted to attend 2025 UKREiiF with our co-sponsors, Gatwick Airport. Our inaugural attendance at last year’s UKREiiF allowed us, and our partners, to showcase the business and lifestyle opportunities within the Gatwick Diamond to the international investment community. We are looking forward to building on the success of 2024 and delivering new opportunities to strengthen our region.”
Councillor Atif Nawaz, Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development at Crawley Borough Council, said: “Crawley Borough Council is very pleased to announce that we are returning to UKREiiF as part of the regional delegation in 2025. The partnership’s commitment to supporting economic growth and regional development is the perfect opportunity to highlight the fantastic benefits that Crawley and the wider region has to offer potential investors.”
Barbara Childs, Director of Place at Horsham District Council, added: “As a major stakeholder in the Gatwick region’s economic prosperity, Horsham District Council looks forward to participating in driving further investment to benefit our resident workforce and employers.
“We are committed to working in partnership with our neighbours to create the best possible environment to attract new businesses and foster a culture of success for those who call the Horsham District home.”
The initiative is being facilitated by place marketing specialists White Label Creative, with London Gatwick as the headline partner and Gatwick Diamond Initiative as the associate partner. Public sector partners confirmed to date include Chichester District Council, Crawley Borough Council, Horsham District Council, Invest West Kent, London Borough of Croydon, Reigate and Banstead Borough Council, and West Sussex County Council. Private sector partners currently include Birketts LLP, Develop Croydon, Oander, SHW, and Morgan Sindall.
For more information or to get involved, contact Katharine Glass, Director at White Label Creative: kglass@wlcreative.org.uk
