37 firms shortlisted for Heathrow expansion work

A total of 37 companies have been invited to pitch their ideas on how to deliver expansion at Heathrow airport, as it prepares to build a third runway.

There were around 150 ideas submitted, in relation to sustainability, retail and operational solutions.

Companies on the longlist – who Heathrow has not named at this stage – now have eight weeks to prepare their pitches.

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The selection came following the launch in April this year of the Innovation Partner process, which encouraged potential partners to share ideas on how to deliver on the promises Heathrow has made to the environment, its neighbours and the country.

All proposals have to align with Heathrow’s vision and strategic objectives of improving passenger experience, driving cost efficiencies, growing commercial revenues and delivering on its sustainability targets.

The next stage will see a final round of business pitches and ideas that will impact the masterplan of the expanded airport, will then be factored in to the Development Consent Order, expected to be approved in 2021.

Around 40 companies that were not successful in making the longlist will now be added to Heathrow’s supplier list.

Emma Gilthorpe, executive director of Heathrow Expansion said: “Our Innovation Partner Process is further evidence of us wanting to work with anyone who wants to legitimately challenge our way of thinking and work with us. We do not have the monopoly on great ideas and those going through to the next round, have clearly evidenced innovative ways of finding approaches and implementation that will benefit our communities and country. We are excited for the next round in this search, as those wanting to help us build a legacy for future generations and travellers, are one step closer to having a global platform with Heathrow.”

Ideas for the expansion of Heathrow included: