Scunthorpe expo bids to boost trade in steel sector

A special event aimed at encouraging business to support the steel trade following widespread job cuts in the sector is being held in North Lincolnshire.
Steel workers and members of Unite and GMB march through Scunthorpe today November 10 2015 to protest over job losses at Tata Steel in the town. Over 100 people hit the street to show their solidarity with the steel workers effected by the cuts.Steel workers and members of Unite and GMB march through Scunthorpe today November 10 2015 to protest over job losses at Tata Steel in the town. Over 100 people hit the street to show their solidarity with the steel workers effected by the cuts.
Steel workers and members of Unite and GMB march through Scunthorpe today November 10 2015 to protest over job losses at Tata Steel in the town. Over 100 people hit the street to show their solidarity with the steel workers effected by the cuts.

The council is hosting the ‘Local Steel Supply Chain Expo’ at Forest Pines Golf and Spa Hotel in Broughton on Thursday, February 25, from 9am to 5pm.

The event has been organised following Tata Steel announcing that around 900 jobs are to be axed at the company’s factory in Scunthorpe. The move has sparked numerous protest marches but steel bosses said the catalyst for their decision was cheap Chinese imports, the strong pound and high electricity costs.

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Businesses are invited to showcase their services at the expo, identify new leads and make contacts for potential deals with other companies.

Expo organisers are also encouraging businesses to support each other through awarding local contracts for goods and services.

Councillor Liz Redfern, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The Local Steel Supply Chain Expo event will bring all local supply chains together in one room.

“We have signed up to the UK Steel Charter that seeks to promote the use of quality British Steel in construction projects. We are leading the way in our construction projects and are encouraging businesses and other councils to do the same. Our work has already attracted many local organisations to sign the charter. The Expo will hopefully widen our remit and encourage businesses to sign up.”

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A number of master classes will be run throughout the day giving advice and information on how to get on tender lists and meet pre-qualification standards. The first will be held at 10.30am. For more information contact the council’s business team on 01724 297330.