Rolls-Royce is investing £300m across five major UK manufacturing sites. Derby and Bristol receive the largest allocations as the aerospace and defence group expands production, maintenance, engineering, and advanced component capacity.

Lime’s UK business has doubled profits as rider numbers climb. Revenue reached £148m in 2025 as the fleet expanded, while new licensing powers give English local authorities greater control over dockless micromobility services.

Heathrow’s third runway timetable now points towards a 2039 opening. The airport still aims to secure planning permission by 2029, but its construction assumptions extend the potential opening date beyond the previous 2035 target.

UK businesses reported weaker turnover as labour costs remained elevated. ONS data shows more companies experienced declining August sales, while input costs, energy concerns, and expected price rises continue to shape operating conditions.

Northern Ireland’s investment fund has passed £100m in total investment. Seventy-five transactions across 64 businesses have combined more than £44m of fund capital with over £62m of additional private-sector finance.

First-time UK equity investment strengthened as regional funding spread wider. Beauhurst recorded more newly funded companies, smaller typical rounds, and a growing share of first investments outside London, while AI absorbed 58.6% of first-time investment value in early 2026.

UK retailers cut supplier orders at a record pace again. The CBI found sales weakening across stores and online channels, while purchasing from suppliers fell at the fastest rate since its records began in 1983.