More than 40 businesses sign up to boost Northern Powerhouse economy

Over 40 businesses, universities and business networks are pledging their support to boost the economy of the Northern Powerhouse.

Barclays and Vodafone will be among the organisations backing the Northern Powerhouse at a ‘partnership’ conference in Liverpool 8th December 2016.

Northern Powerhouse Minister, Andrew Percy welcomed the commitment of these global brands and others, to help deliver jobs and attract new investment into the region at the conference at the Peel Port.

In addition, the minister launched a new Northern Powerhouse website to share the latest news, views and opportunities for businesses and new investors.

The North has over one million businesses, seven international airports and four of the world’s top universities. The economy was worth £304bn in 2014, while last year employment growth in the North East was the fastest in the UK.

The North already exports over £50bn of goods around the globe, and now more than 40 firms are coming together at Peel Port in Liverpool to discuss actions and strategies to get the economy of the Northern Powerhouse growing even more.

Northern Powerhouse Minister Andrew Percy said: “We are determined to back business growth across the Northern Powerhouse to create an economy that works for everyone. We have some of the best businesses and talent in the world.

“So I’m delighted that 40 leading businesses, from Barclays to the Manchester Airports Group and Vodafone, are signed up and raring to go to make the most of all the region has to offer, in a real show of force for the North.

“Our new dedicated Northern Powerhouse website allows potential investors to see what fantastic opportunities there are in the North and showcase all it has to offer.”

Tony Walsh, head of north for Barclays, added: “Barclays has a strong legacy in the North of England, we employ over 12,000 people across the region and we are committed to supporting the Northern Powerhouse.

“We at Barclays will keep on lending to businesses, connecting universities and business groups, and maintaining investment in digital, technology and workplace skills to boost competitiveness and opportunity for all.”

Nick Jeffery, Vodafone UK CEO, commented: “We are very proud to have signed up to the Northern Powerhouse. We have a high regard for the innovative energy of our thousands of Enterprise customers across the region as well as a strong belief in the benefits our local approach to business can bring.

“We are committed to continuing our massive investment on our network and strategic hubs in the North and we look forward to making the region a powerhouse for the UK economy once again.”