Firms hear of Olympic opportunity

A workshop for local businesses to find out how they can win contracts for the 2012 Olympics was attended by 20 companies from Stafford.

The free event, organised by Business Link West Midlands and staged at the Tillington Hall Hotel, was completely sold out with local firms receiving an insight on approaches to procurement, becoming fit to supply and ensuring they have the tendering essentials in place.

Larch Consulting's Caroline Place was the keynote speaker for the day and outlined how businesses in the area have a real chance of securing contracts for both London 2012 and ongoing infrastructure projects.

"We always knew these workshops were going to be popular, but interest really did overwhelm us, with the sold out notices posted within a few hours of announcing the details," explained Sharyn Lewis, events executive at Business Link West Midlands.

"It was great to host the first event in Stafford, as it builds on the area's rich creative past and proven track record in innovation. From the feedback we received, it appears there is a real appetite and belief that the town could play its own role in the Olympic Games," she added.

Bartlam Graphic Art and 3 Spires Learning were among the first companies to take advantage of the expert advice and guidance, with lots of positive feedback and intentions on getting involved in the high-profile project.

Anderen Ltd's Adrian Allen said: "I thoroughly enjoyed the presentation, which was conducted at a good pace with lots of information on public procurement and how we can make the most of the opportunities out there."

The workshops are only one element of the support Business Link West Midlands offers, with advisers set to continue to offer impartial advice and guidance on helping businesses develop and be in a strong position to win new contracts.

The organisation is also working with Advantage West Midlands on promoting the national website www.london2012.com/business

The website will feature hundreds of London 2012 Games contract opportunities and a number of indirect tenders that will be part of the ripple effect of the games.