Overlay

Together, we can ensure that these vital businesses not only survive but flourish and can achieve their £115bn turnover growth potential by 2030.

Paul Thwaite
CEO NatWest Group

As we navigate the complexities of today’s economic landscape, it is imperative that we recognise the vital role that mid-market corporates (MMCs) play in driving growth within the UK. These enterprises represent the critical backbone of our economy.

With their significant contributions to GDP and employment — accounting for over a quarter of the UK’s economic activity — MMCs are not merely participants in the marketplace; they are essential engines of growth that deserve our focused attention and support.

At NatWest, we have long understood the importance of mid-market corporates. Their ability to adapt swiftly to changing market conditions, coupled with their scale and resource access, positions them uniquely to lead in driving economic advancement. 

The statistics are compelling: MMCs not only outpace the broader economy in growth rates but also demonstrate higher productivity levels compared to small and mid-sized enterprises. This dynamic makes them critical players in the Government’s growth agenda and local economies across the nation.

However, as highlighted in our latest report ‘The Critical Middle’, MMCs face distinct challenges that, if left unaddressed, could hinder their potential. From the need for enhanced access to skills and resources to the complexities of compliance and reporting, these growing pains require targeted action from all stakeholders involved—financial institutions, Government bodies, industry associations, and the corporates themselves.

Our report outlines a clear path forward, emphasising the need for a dedicated ‘MMC Council’ to amplify their voice, the establishment of a common definition to enhance data transparency, and tailored support to meet their unique needs. 

As a bank committed to the success of our clients and the broader economy, we recognise that our role extends beyond traditional financial services.

By fostering collaboration and creating an ecosystem that supports MMCs, we can unlock their full potential and ensure they continue to thrive. This is especially important for those MMCs based outside of London and the South East; these businesses are critical to their local economy, and employing a regional, place-based approach will support their further growth.

As a bank committed to the success of our clients and the broader economy, we recognise that our role extends beyond traditional financial services. We are dedicated to providing the support and resources necessary for mid-market corporates to overcome their challenges and seize new opportunities.

Together, we can ensure that these vital businesses not only survive but flourish and can achieve their £115bn turnover growth potential by 2030.

Follow Paul on LinkedIn.

Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds

“This Government’s number one mission is growing our economy - this report provides clear evidence for the vital role that mid-market corporates can play in achieving that. It sets out the contribution these businesses make to regional economies, delivering jobs and increasing productivity across all sectors.

"The sky is the limit for what these businesses can contribute to the UK. I look forward to working closely with business, and with NatWest, to ensure these firms have the recognition and support they need to overcome challenges and realise their ambitions.”

 

The Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP

Secretary of State for Business and Trade

The Critical Middle

Download our latest report - Mid-market corporates: The Critical Middle

Caution about this Report

This report “Mid-Market Corporates: The Critical Middle” (the “Report”) has been prepared by NatWest Group plc (together with its subsidiaries, the “NatWest Group”), in partnership with Oliver Wyman LLC, for information and reference purposes only. The Report is intended to provide non-exhaustive, indicative and general information only and does not provide any form of legal, tax, investment, accounting, financial or other advice.

The key findings, estimates, predictions and recommendations in this Report are based on various industry and other information, as set out in this Appendix A, and are based on information obtained through market research, and are not statements of fact.

The Report is prepared based on reviews and analysis of financial, statistical and other information and data published by third parties. NatWest Group is under no obligation to update these materials, absent a legal duty to do so.

To the extent permitted by law, NatWest Group makes no representation, warranty or assurance of any kind, express or implied, or takes no responsibility or liability as to the fairness, accuracy, reliability, reasonableness, correctness or completeness of third parties’ data included in this Report or any of the opinions, recommendations or conclusions expressed in the applicable sections.

The material published on this page is for information purposes only and should not be regarded as providing any specific advice, or used by consumers to make financial decision. Terms and conditions apply to any products or services mentioned.

scroll to top