Thames Freeport Unveils Bold Global Innovation Partnerships
London, UK – 1 September 2025 – Thames Freeport today unveiled a bold programme of global innovation partnerships designed to create jobs, attract international investment, and cement the UK’s leadership in AI-powered growth, signalling a major boost for the UK’s innovation economy. In collaboration with L Marks, PUBLIC, MH&A and Rainmaking, Thames Freeport is spearheading initiatives that promise to deliver new jobs, attract investment, and position the UK as a leader in solutions driving new AI-powered growth. Thames Freeport is uniquely placed to attract international investors and showcase UK innovation on a global stage.
A key highlight of today’s announcement is the official launch of the Thames Freeport Connectivity Lab, delivered by L Marks, in collaboration with Cambridge Management Consulting, as a groundbreaking initiative designed to advance AI, 5G, and smart infrastructure technologies in ports and logistics. This new Lab will identify and support scale-up of leading startups and tech companies bringing innovative solutions to the forefront of the Thames Freeport ecosystem.
Backed by newly deployed multi-site private 5G networks from Verizon Business, the Connectivity Lab will serve as a testbed for advanced solutions that transform operations, strengthen competitiveness, and unlock real-world value for Thames Freeport and beyond.
Developed in partnership with DP World London Gateway, Port of Tilbury and Ford Motor Company Dagenham, the Connectivity Lab will connect innovative suppliers with industry leaders in a 10-week immersive programme. Participants will gain direct access to senior executives, hands-on mentorship, and the opportunity to pilot their technologies in real-world environments.
The programme will focus on three critical areas: Tracking & Monitoring, Maintenance & Efficiency and Health, Safety & Security. A wildcard category will capture disruptive ideas with the potential to create breakthrough impact.
Applications for the Connectivity Lab are open until 12 October 2025
Thames Freeport Connectivity Lab
The partnership with L Marks also includes their appointment as Thames Freeport’s strategic innovation delivery partner, together with PUBLIC and MH&A for several other flagship projects encompassing healthcare, transport and food and drink that will be announced in the coming weeks. These initiatives underscore Thames Freeport’s commitment to delivering practical, industry-focused advancements that create lasting economic and environmental benefits for businesses and communities.
“This announcement marks a bold step in reimagining how ports and industrial regions can lead the future economy. By harnessing AI, advanced connectivity, and sustainable innovation, Thames Freeport is positioning the UK at the forefront of global change.
These collaborations with L Marks and Rainmaking underline our commitment to delivering real-world impact—creating jobs, supporting businesses, and building a future-ready economy where communities prosper and new industries thrive.”
Stuart Rimmer, Interim CEO Thames Freeport
Transforming the Region with Global and National Impact
Thames Freeport, strategically located along the River Thames, serves as the global gateway to Europe’s most economically active consumer city. By combining advanced manufacturing, logistics, and sustainable construction with state-of-the-art infrastructure, the Freeport is creating a globally competitive environment for research and development. Offering tax incentives and unparalleled connectivity, the Freeport has already secured £1.5 billion of investment, creating over 1,400 jobs, and today’s announcements are expected to accelerate that momentum.
Driving Innovation Across Industries
The Connectivity Lab will focus on developing place-centric 5G applications, smart infrastructure, and sustainable logistics. By identifying and partnering with promising technology innovators through the scouting process, the Lab will foster solutions that deliver measurable benefits, such as improved connectivity, reduced emissions, and enhanced efficiency.
“The launch of these innovation partnerships at Thames Freeport represents exactly the kind of bold, industry-led collaboration that the UK is moving towards to demonstrate its global ambitions. By combining the strengths of world-class corporates, visionary entrepreneurs, and cutting-edge technologies, we are creating a platform that delivers commercial impact today while driving sustainable growth, and jobs for the future.
As their strategic innovation delivery partner, L Marks is proud to play a central role in ensuring Thames Freeport becomes the reference site for how innovation can transform and future-proof industries, regions, and the national economy.”
Lord Marks of Hale CBE, Chairman of L Marks
Delivering Jobs, Growth, and Sustainability
Thames Freeport’s innovation partnerships are expected to generate new jobs and support the UK’s transition to a high-tech, low-carbon economy. With 1,700 acres of development land, Thames Freeport is uniquely positioned to deliver long-term socioeconomic value.
These partnerships are a testament to how targeted innovation can address pressing challenges, from reducing logistical bottlenecks to creating sustainable supply chains. As the UK continues to prioritize innovation as a driver of economic growth, Thames Freeport is proud to be at the forefront of these efforts.