Supporting businesses across the UK to go global is key to achieving economic growth, says MAG CEO

The CEO of the UK’s largest airports group is calling on the UK Government to use international trade as a key driver to realise the ambitions of its Industrial Strategy.

The comments come after Manchester Airports Group (MAG) published the latest findings of its UK Trade Barometer in partnership with The Growing Together Alliance and YouGov.

Data from 2,000 UK businesses across Q2 of 2025 showed that despite trade turbulence, UK exporters performed well and were optimistic about prospects in Q3. It also highlighted how exports to the EU, Canada and China are also gaining momentum as businesses seek to diversify their operations.

As the UK Government continues to push forward its Modern Industrial Strategy, Mr O’Toole reaffirmed the vital role of aviation in unlocking international trade and accelerating economic growth through country’s high-growth service sectors.

He said: “For our economy to thrive, we need to play to our strengths and so it is welcome news that the Industrial Strategy backs the highest-potential sectors.

“Delivering that Strategy must also involve supporting the key enablers of growth and it has been pleasing to see the Chancellor back aviation as one of those. But we also need a plan that will deliver growth now - and in the years immediately ahead of us - not just in 20 or so years’ time.”

The Trade Barometer findings also highlighted the stark contrast between the performance of exporters in London and from other regions around the UK. More than half of London businesses – 51% - expect to increase exports in the next quarter, compared to 22% in both the North and the Midlands.

Mr O’Toole highlighted the unique role MAG plays in the UK – with airports that span regions across the country. He called for a need for Government policy to focus on ensuring that all regions of the UK benefit from trading businesses – with research from Centre for Cities showing that towns and cities with more exporting businesses are proved to perform better economically.

He said: “With airports in the North, Midlands and South, MAG will spend £2.5bn on its own infrastructure over the next five years. We are committed to working with Government on how that private investment works alongside policy interventions to boost productivity in all parts of the UK…

“…all the key sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy are abundant across the UK. Just look at the Ox-Cam arc and clusters of AI, cyber, life sciences and materials manufacturing in the North West.

“This highlights a clear opportunity for Government to boost productivity nationwide – and close the gap between London and the regions - by working with business and local leaders to identify the interventions that will help more companies “go global.””

To read the full piece click here.

To read more about MAG’s Q2 Trade Barometer click here.