Black Country showcase at Westminster

Of the 455,400 people working in the Black Country, 103,725 are in manufacturing jobs across 7,565 high value manufacturing businesses

The exhibition will feature almost 30 companies whose products are made in the Black Country and sold across the world.

From 11am to 3pm MPs will be able to visit the exhibition to view products including traditional handmade ironwork by Kirkpatrick in Walsall – the only remaining traditional black ironmongery in the UK – to car wheels from West Bromwich's Rimstock.

Companies including Willenhall's Assa Abloy, Sadlers Ales in Lye, Smethwick's A&M EDM and Boss Designs in Dudley will be displaying goods and services across the housing, automotive, sport, engineering, education, aerospace, foundry and creative industries.

On the day the Black Country LEP will also demonstrate HVM City: The Opportunity Gateway, a new online portal which allows companies to register tender opportunities as well as companies and individuals being able to access tender opportunities. The HVM City Platform, which will be directly aligned with the HS2 Procurement Portal, will enable inward investment opportunities, drive supply chain development and integration and support major contract delivery from start to finish.

“I grew up in Dudley, I love the Black Country and I’m proud of it. Manufacturing is a really important part of the Black Country’s heritage but I want to show that hi-tech manufacturing, science and technology has a bright future in the region too. I want people in London to understand that we are bringing new industries and new jobs to the area to strengthen the local economy and boost prosperity.

“That’s why I’m delighted to be able to organise this event in Parliament again this year, where our brilliant local producers and manufacturers can show off their work to MPs from across the country," said Mr Austin.

Stewart Towe, chairman of the Black Country LEP, said: “The Black Country is home to 34,950 businesses, our automotive specialisms are amongst the best in the world with Black Country companies supplying 16 of the world’s largest car makers and supplying all leading commercial and military manufacturers of planes. With so much to shout about we are delighted that our companies are coming together in Parliament to demonstrate to MPs from across the country that products made in the Black Country are sold across the world.”

Assa Abloy UK will be showcasing its fire door safety products seeking to highlight its British brands and expertise in fire door inspections.