The travel and transport sector is a key part of the UK economy, helping to link regions and encourage growth. In 2023, the South East saw several companies securing significant investment to drive innovation and development in this space. This article highlights the top 10 travel and transport companies in the South East based on the highest amount of fundraising and evaluates how the region compares to others in the UK, using key fundraising benchmarks.
Top Travel and Transport Companies in the South East
This data reflects fundraising raised in 2023 by UK companies officially registered and active on Companies House within the travel and transport industry.
- IOTHIC
Total amount raised: £5,476,797
Location: South East
IOTHIC provides cybersecurity solutions for connected vehicles, ensuring the safety and security of autonomous and smart transport systems. Their 2023 fundraising will support further product development and expansion into global markets. - Superhog
Total amount raised: £5,496,588
Location: South East
Superhog offers insurance and risk management solutions for the sharing economy, with a focus on travel and accommodation platforms. The company’s fundraising will help them scale their services and improve customer acquisition. - Everrati
Total amount raised: £5,741,214
Location: South East
Everrati is a leader in electric vehicle (EV) conversions, transforming classic cars into electric models. Their recent fundraising will support the expansion of their operations and help meet the growing demand for EV conversions. - Bicester Motion
Total amount raised: £13,371,611
Location: South East
Bicester Motion is developing a multi-purpose destination for automotive enthusiasts, blending heritage, innovation, and driving experiences. Their 2023 fundraising will help expand their site and attract more visitors, establishing the South East as a key destination for automotive tourism. - EVC
Total amount raised: £13,529,473
Location: South East
EVC specialises in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, providing solutions for homes, businesses, and public spaces. Their fundraising will help accelerate the rollout of EV charging stations across the UK, supporting the transition to electric transport. - OxCCU
Total amount raised: £18,240,480
Location: South East
OxCCU develops sustainable fuel technology, particularly in synthetic fuels for aviation and heavy transport. Their 2023 fundraising will be used to advance their technology and bring sustainable fuels to market, helping reduce carbon emissions in transport. - HydraB Power
Total amount raised: £32,000,000
Location: South East
HydraB Power focuses on hydrogen fuel cell technology, providing sustainable energy solutions for the transport sector. Their recent fundraising will be used to scale their operations and develop new hydrogen-based transport technologies. - Reaction Engines
Total amount raised: £40,000,000
Location: South East
Reaction Engines develops high-speed propulsion technology for aviation and space travel. Their major fundraising will be used to further develop their engine systems, positioning them as a global leader in advanced propulsion technologies. - Open Cosmos
Total amount raised: £40,028,020
Location: South East
Open Cosmos offers space technology solutions, focusing on satellite missions and space infrastructure. Their significant fundraising in 2023 will support the expansion of their services, helping companies access space more easily and affordably. - Envisics
Total amount raised: £83,873,270
Location: South East
Envisics is a leader in augmented reality (AR) technology for automotive displays, providing real-time data to drivers through holographic interfaces. Their massive fundraising in 2023 will support the further development of their AR technology and global market expansion.
How is the South East Performing?
Using regional fundraising benchmarks from 2023, we can critically evaluate how well the South East is performing in the travel and transport sector compared to other regions in the UK.
Total Fundraising Amount
In 2023, the South East raised £273.3 million across its top companies, positioning it as one of the leading regions in the UK for transport innovation. This figure is well ahead of regions like Scotland (£30.2 million) and Wales (£10.7 million), making the South East a key hub for sustainable and technological advancements in transport.
Average Fundraising per Company
The South East’s average fundraising per company is £27.33 million, reflecting the region’s ability to attract large investments, particularly in cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality and hydrogen fuel cells.
Top Fundraising Company
Envisics raised £83.9 million in 2023, making it the top performer in the South East. Their innovative AR technology for automotive displays positions them as a leader in the future of connected and autonomous vehicles.
How does the South East compare to other regions in the UK?
The South East is a major player in the UK’s travel and transport sector, particularly in high-tech areas like augmented reality, hydrogen fuel cells, and space technology. The region’s ability to attract significant investment sets it apart from many other areas, and it is only surpassed by London in terms of total fundraising. The South East is a crucial hub for technological advancements in transport, helping drive the UK’s transition to sustainable and connected travel solutions.
The Future of Travel and Transport Companies in the UK
The South East is poised to continue its growth, particularly in innovative areas like AR technology, hydrogen fuel cells, and space missions. Companies like Envisics and HydraB Power are at the forefront of these advancements, helping the region shape the future of transport in the UK. As demand for green technologies and smart transport solutions increases, the South East will remain a critical player in the UK’s journey toward sustainable and high-tech transportation.