Tuesday, 3 Feb 2026.  Gatwick Diamond Business (gdb) and the Gatwick Diamond Initiative (GDI) have today officially merged to become one single organisation.   The new business will operate under one single entity – Gatwick Diamond Business.

GDI has ceased operations as a standalone business, and its core investment promotion function will be integrated as Invest in the Gatwick Diamond – a defined brand and delivery arm of gdb.   The Invest in the Gatwick Diamond website is a dedicated platform designed to promote the region and support inward investment.  It provides clear, practical information for businesses or investors considering locating or expanding in the area and acts as a central gateway for investment enquiries and connections across the Gatwick Diamond.

The merger represents an important milestone in the 70 year history of gdb and GDI.  Both organisations have independently attracted, promoted and supported businesses of all sizes across Sussex, Surrey and Kent.  However, gdb and GDI have recognised the changing business environment and economic challenges of recent years means now is the time to offer the region’s 45,000 businesses a more streamlined, representative, single organisation to strengthen the business voice of the South East. 

Today’s announcement formalises GDI and gdb’s shared ambition to do more for the businesses they serve.  gdb now has an unparalleled opportunity to establish a single, authoritative and independent voice advocating for, and promoting, the Gatwick Diamond. 

A cornerstone of the new gdb is the creation of the first All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for the South East.  The APPG for the South East and Gatwick Diamond Gateway will bring together MPs, Peers, businesses and regional partners to champion one of the UK’s most connected and commercially successful regions. 

Led by parliamentarians from the region, the APPG’s mission is to ensure the South East and Gatwick Diamond have a clear, consistent voice in Parliament – influencing national decisions on local issues such as transport, skills, investment and sustainable growth.   The APPG will officially launch 4 February at the Houses of Parliament.

Brett North, gdb Executive Director, Invest in the Gatwick Diamond lead, said: “Today is an important day in the history of of gdb and GDI.  By bringing together the experience and expertise of gdb and GDI under one roof, we’re ensuring gdb is relevant and fit-for-the-future – a single organisation that gives the Gatwick Diamond a strong voice, regionally, importantly, on a national level with the county’s decision-makers.  2026 is going to be an exciting year for the Gatwick Diamond.”

Sally Brown, Managing Director, Gatwick Diamond Business, said: “For our members, this opens up more possibilities – more influence, more visibility, and more support in a fast-changing world. By bringing together the strengths of both organisations, we’ll be able to offer something broader, bolder and better connected than ever before.  The new gdb reflects where our members are headed and what they need in a changing world.”