Welsh businesses get the inside track today (Thursday 25 June) on how to bid for contracts worth around £10bn as they meet HS2 Ltd’s senior management team in Cardiff to hear of business opportunities to build Britain’s largest infrastructure project.
Economy Minister Edwina Hart, who is addressing the meeting, stressed that businesses need to grasp the opportunities presented by HS2.
Speaking ahead of the event the Minister said: “HS2 Ltd’s Commercial Director, Beth West has emphasised this major infrastructure project is a huge transport, investment and economic prospect for Wales and we need to grasp the economic opportunities it can create for Wales .The opportunities are here, on our doorstep and we have to maximise the benefits that such a massive project will create for many years to come.
“The HS2 team are laying down their marker now, looking for suppliers throughout the UK to support the first phase of HS2 between London and Birmingham and we have a range of suppliers in Wales that can add value to the project. Good suppliers, with a track record of excellent service, products and expertise.
“Our manufacturing, construction and civil engineering companies have the skills and expertise to support this sector and I am delighted the Welsh Government is supporting this event – the latest in a successful series of meet the buyer events we have facilitated over a number of years.”
The Minister added these events are invaluable and today’s will enable Welsh businesses to meet key personnel from HS2 Ltd face to face, engage with them and understand the best way to enter the supply chain.
HS2 Ltd’s Commercial Director Beth West will meet businesses at the Welsh Government sponsored event at Cardiff City Stadium, where delegates can also speak directly to the HS2 Ltd’s supply chain, skills and employment and business information modelling teams.
The event has attracted 100 businesses – ranging from large companies employing around 5,000 people to SMEs include existing suppliers to the rail sector as well as businesses interested in diversifying and joining the supply chain. Between them they supply a wide portfolio of products and services – from structural steel to engineering and water management solutions.
Presentations by HS2 Ltd’s Senior Management team will be followed by a Q&A session and a networking lunch. Businesses will be able to speak directly to representatives from HS2 teams as well as Coleg y Cymoedd, CompeteFor, Business Wales, Finance Wales and Construction Futures Wales.