LLA fuels economic growth with £70 million injection

Friday, February 23, 2024

Last year, London Luton Airport (LLA) allocated more than half of its supply chain expenditure to businesses situated within a 25-mile radius, showcasing a growing trend of local company involvement in the airport’s operations.A significant sum of £70 million was distributed among 252 local businesses in 2023, constituting 53% of the total supply chain expenditure. Notably, the largest portion, amounting to £44.7 million, was directed towards 125 enterprises located in Luton and Bedfordshire.

LLA actively fosters the participation of local suppliers in bidding for airport contracts and facilitates numerous events annually to engage small and medium-sized enterprises. The efforts bore fruit as an additional 95 local suppliers were enlisted in 2023, marking a remarkable 60% increase compared to the preceding year.

Alberto Martin, CEO at London Luton Airport commented: “As one of the largest employers in Bedfordshire, and a major driver for the local economy, London Luton Airport has always placed great faith in local people and businesses. Last year, more than half of our supply chain spend was allocated to works, goods and services provided by neighbouring businesses, underlining the strength of our commitment to the region. Our plans for responsible and sustainable growth are intrinsically linked to the wellbeing of the local economy and our aim is to continue to invest in the local supply chain, developing our relationships with both existing and prospective suppliers.”

Justin Richardson, Chief Executive of the Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, commented: “London Luton Airport is one of our region’s most important assets, playing a pivotal role in the local economy. Its importance to many hundreds of businesses across Bedfordshire cannot be underestimated. As well as providing thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities to local people, the airport is a catalyst for economic opportunity and growth across an extensive local supply chain network.”

The ongoing commitment of LLA to supporting local businesses exemplifies the airport’s dedication to the communities it serves. In the previous year, LLA allocated nearly £400,000 to initiatives aimed at benefiting the local community. These initiatives include the Community Trust Fund, Greener Future Fund, as well as various donations and sponsorships.

When considering the substantial community funding provided by Luton Rising, the airport’s owner, the total investment underscores LLA’s position as the foremost socially impactful airport in the UK.

Paul Kehoe CBE, Independent Chair of Luton Rising, the Luton Council company that owns the airport, said: “Maximising the local and regional benefits of London Luton Airport is our absolute priority, so this achievement by the airport operator working with surrounding businesses is fantastic news.

“As airport owner, this support for neighbouring businesses is just part of our unique social impact offer. Over the last 20 years, Luton Rising has contributed more than £480m to frontline services in the town and the vital voluntary, community and charitable organisations who support and improve the lives of people who most need our help. As part of our plans for the future long-term sustainable growth of the airport, we are committed to continuing to work closely with all our partners to deliver even greater benefit in the years to come.”

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