Firms take to the stage in search of new buyers
OVER 150 small businesses from Rochdale and beyond took centre stage at an event designed to help them win contracts with some of the biggest public sector organisations in Greater Manchester.
Over 315 appointments took place during the first ever meet the buyer event at Stockport Town Hall, which was organised by STaR procurement, the shared procurement service for Rochdale, Stockport and Trafford councils. Small-to-medium businesses got to promote their goods and services to all three councils at the event, as well as other major organisations, like Transport for Greater Manchester and Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH).
The event, held at Stockport Town Hall, was designed to help boost small businesses, with statistics showing that for every £1 spent in the local economy, 63p stays in the local economy, compared to 40p with larger businesses.
Coun Peter Williams, cabinet member for business, skills and employment at Rochdale council, said: “We’ve always been very keen that the council and other public sector organisations purchase more goods and services from local businesses, which is why we wanted to support this first joint ‘Meet the Buyer’ event.
“Supporting and encouraging businesses to develop has always been a key priority for the council, so I’d encourage businesses to seek the wealth of support that is available from us and partner organisations.”
Businesses also took advantage of free tendering workshops, where they received tips and guidance on how to bid prevention systems, said: sations and look forward for contracts. “Meet the Buyer was a to hopefully working with
Jack Riley from Small- well organised event and them going forward.” bridge-based Target Fire a great opportunity to The event is part of a Protection, which sup- meet prospective clients. drive by the three councils plies fire detection and We met with a few organi- to spend more with small businesses. For further information on how to tender with Stockport, Trafford and Rochdale Councils please visit starprocurement.gov.uk.