Logistics company AK Worthington has completed a £1m refurbishment of a 16,000 sq ft warehouse in Trafford Park, Manchester. The work was carried out by Russells Construction. The investment is the first phase of the two-stage development of an eight-acre site. The development has the potential to create employment opportunities. 2011 turnover £10m, 115 employees.

Manchester Airport Group is launching flights from East Midlands Airport to Malaga, Alicante, Palma and Faro from summer 2012. The flights will be provided by Monarch Airlines, which is establishing a new base at the airport. Manchester Airport Group recorded turnover of 350.2m in 2011 and had 2,591 employees.

Associated British Ports is investing £150m to expand Southampton port, creating 200 jobs. The size of berths will be increased to ensure the future competitiveness of the container terminal and safeguard 800 direct jobs and 1,200 indirect jobs. The expansion follows an increase in the length of container ships. 2010 turnover £408m, 1,926 employees.