Manufacturers in the UK explore local sourcing opportunities
UK component suppliers are set to do more business with vehicle manufacturers following this month’s first automotive components trade event, organised by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Over 90 one-to-one meetings took place between manufacturers and suppliers at the event, held in Birmingham earlier this month. The networking event was set up in support of Automotive Council objectives to promote and encourage sourcing from more locally-based suppliers following genuine interest and commitment from global vehicle manufacturers in building stronger UK-based supply chains. The day was supported by major OEMs including Aston Martin, BMW Group, Ford, General Motors UK, Jaguar Land Rover, JCB, Leyland Trucks and Nissan.
“The response we have had following the networking event has been extremely positive and has highlighted serious business opportunities that will help to sustain a strong UK supply base,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “We are optimistic about these new business partnerships and will continue to support them through similar activities and events such as this.”
Lawrence Davies, director of purchasing, GM UK, commented, “The networking event was an excellent opportunity to meet many potential new suppliers all on the same day. We will be following up with a number of businesses we met to progress potential opportunities further.”
Andrew Wareing, general manager, Nissan purchasing, reinforced this view, confirming that “we have already invited several suppliers back to discuss the potential of doing business together”.
Stokes Forgings was one of the suppliers selected via SMMT’s Automotive Supplier Finder (ASF) database to attend the event. Managing director Ian Young commented, “It’s not often that you get the chance to meet so many senior purchasing people from the automotive industry under the same roof. Not only did we meet new customer contacts, but we also left with the opportunity to quote for some new packages of business that ideally suit our production facilities.”
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