Nestled at the heart of one of the UK’s most connected and dynamic regions, the Gatwick Airport Economic Zone (AEZ) is fast emerging as a magnet for ambitious businesses looking to relocate, expand, or launch. With its strategic positioning, unrivalled transport infrastructure, and an ecosystem designed for innovation and growth, the AEZ offers a compelling proposition for enterprises of all sizes and sectors.
A Region Built for Business
The Gatwick Airport Economic Zone spans across West Sussex, Surrey, Kent and parts of East Sussex, covering a wide range of urban and rural commercial opportunities. Anchored by Gatwick Airport, the region benefits from outstanding connectivity, both internationally and domestically. Businesses located here enjoy direct access to over 200 global destinations, fast rail links to London, and easy connections to major motorways such as the M23 and M25.
More than just location, the AEZ is backed by robust infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and local authorities committed to sustainable growth and innovation. The Gatwick Region initiative brings together local councils, private sector leaders, and development agencies to create an environment where businesses can thrive.
The region is already a dynamic hub for diverse and forward-thinking industries. From advanced logistics companies and aerospace innovators to green energy start-ups and global tech firms, businesses have chosen this strategic location to thrive.
Logistics and distribution firms are capitalizing on the zone’s unmatched air, rail, and road connectivity, streamlining supply chains across the UK and Europe. Aerospace and aviation companies are drawn by proximity to one of the UK’s busiest international airports, facilitating rapid prototyping, testing, and deployment.
Meanwhile, technology and digital service providers benefit from strong infrastructure and access to a skilled workforce, while clean energy and environmental enterprises are leveraging the region’s commitment to sustainability and low-carbon growth.
These companies chose the Gatwick Airport Economic Zone not just for its connectivity, but for its vision — a future-focused ecosystem designed to support innovation, collaboration, and long-term economic resilience.
Whether you’re a tech start-up looking for flexible workspace, a logistics company needing strategic distribution access, or a manufacturer seeking room to grow, the AEZ offers the resources, space, and community to support your journey.
Driving the Economy and Set For Further Growth
With an economy larger than Birmingham, Liverpool or Leeds, it produces a gross value added (GVA) of £24 billion, making it 16% more productive than the British economy as a whole. The region also supports over 76,000 jobs. This economic vitality was particularly evident in six key local authority areas: West Sussex, Surrey, Kent, Croydon, Brighton and Hove, and East Sussex. For instance, West Sussex alone accounted for £1.6 billion in GVA and over 22,000 jobs, underscoring the region’s pivotal role in the AEZ’s economic landscape.
Looking ahead, the proposed £2.2 billion Northern Runway Project aims to further amplify the AEZ’s economic impact. If approved, this initiative is projected to create an additional 14,000 jobs and generate £1 billion in economic benefits annually, reinforcing the zone’s status as a catalyst for regional prosperity .
How Oander is Supporting Businesses in the Gatwick Airport Economic Zone
Relocating or launching a business in a new region can be complex—but that’s where Oander steps in. A leading consultancy specialising in project management, quantity surveying, and construction cost consultancy, Oander plays a key role in supporting the evolution of the Gatwick Airport Economic Zone.
From managing office fit-outs to delivering large-scale commercial developments, Oander works alongside investors, developers, and business owners to make relocation or expansion into the AEZ seamless, efficient, and cost-effective.
Whether you’re building from scratch or adapting an existing property, Oander provides:
- Expert project planning and delivery
- Design
- Detailed cost management and budgeting
- Risk mitigation strategies to protect your investment
- Contract administration and tendering support
Our experience across commercial, industrial, education, and mixed-use developments makes us a trusted partner for businesses looking to hit the ground running in the AEZ.
Come and Talk It Over With Us At UKREiiF 2025
UKREiiF is the UK’s Real estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum. The three day event connects people, places and businesses in the UK built environment sector. Ben Davies, Oander MD will be accompanying the teams from the Gatwick Airport Region Economic Zone and the Gatwick Diamond at the 2025 UKREiiF conference in Leeds between the 20th and 22nd May. The team will be on site showcasing the benefits of the zone and how Oander can help businesses looking at the area.
The Gatwick Airport Economic Zone is not just a location—it’s a launchpad. With strategic support from companies like Oander, businesses moving to the area gain more than just real estate; they gain partners invested in their long-term success.
