West Mids Mayor among guests at Sandwell summit as council launches fresh growth plan

The event, held at The Hawthorns in West Bromwich, marked the launch of what Sandwell Council described as three "critical resources" aimed at empowering local businesses, including the updated Sandwell Business Growth plan, skills and employment strategy, and the top 50 fasting growing Sandwell companies report.

Over 100 attendees heard details of the achievements of Sandwell’s top businesses, with presentations from Rem3dy Health, CMT Engineering, and Doocey Group, who shared their growth journeys, challenges and successes, offering motivation and practical insights for others in the community.

Councillor Sukhbir Singh Gill, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Business and Skills, said a thriving economy is "essential for businesses and residents" in Sandwell.

“The Business Growth and Employment Summit demonstrated the strength and unity of Sandwell’s business community," he said.

“We have an ambitious Business Growth Plan in Sandwell to support businesses and continue to help propel our community to new heights of prosperity and success.

“This plan is not merely a set of priorities – it is a testament to the council’s commitment to fostering an environment where innovation flourishes, where entrepreneurial spirit is championed, and where success is not just a goal but a shared reality.”

Organisers say the event highlighted the importance of collaboration between businesses, anchor organisations and education and training partners in raising aspirations and building the workforce of the future.

Shokat Lal, Sandwell Council Chief Executive, added: “It was fantastic to celebrate so many growing businesses in Sandwell, and our proud industrial heritage continues today through our advanced manufacturing sector.

“Sandwell has so much to offer to businesses, with excellent transport links, great connectivity and a proven track record of working with the West Midlands Combined Authority, central government and other partners to deliver major regeneration projects across a range of sectors.

“We are an ambitious council working proactively to support our businesses to thrive, our residents to gain valuable skills and our local economy to grow stronger and more resilient.

“We are determined to make the most of our everyone’s skills, abilities and resourcefulness to create good jobs and opportunities that will boost everyone’s life chances and attract even more investment into Sandwell for the long term.”