Key Developments in South East Business: Thames Water Restructuring, New National Forest, and Heathrow Passengers Surge
In 2025, significant business developments occurred in the South East. The Duchess of Edinburgh inaugurated The Duchess of Edinburgh Hall for army musicians in Surrey. The South East Dealmakers Awards highlighted the financial sector, with Nick Wallis winning Dealmaker of the Year.
Business confidence surged by 16 points in February to 33%. In March, Virgin Group announced plans to operate passenger trains through the Channel Tunnel. Thames Water's finance chief resigned amid restructuring efforts.
In April, XPENG joined The Peter Cooper Motor Group’s dealerships. Red Funnel partnered with Artemis Technologies to launch a zero-emissions ferry by next year. A £1bn investment in a new biosecurity center was announced in June.
In July, Wilson Partners merged with Mark Holt & Co, while Southern Water received £1.2bn from Macquarie. Heathrow reported over eight million passengers in August. In October, Farnborough International Airshow expanded for 2026. A new national forest was confirmed in November, and in December, Serco secured a £500m contract for HMP Dovegate.
