Businesses explore defence opportunities

Businesses from across the region came together to explore opportunities within the UK’s defence sector at a networking event hosted by Telford & Wrekin Council’s investment and business support team and Make UK.

The Member Connect: Opportunities in Defence event was hosted at MOD Donnington, bringing together businesses interested in learning more about opportunities within the defence supply chain while providing the chance to network with manufacturers and industry professionals.

The event forms part of the ongoing partnership between Invest Telford and Make UK to support manufacturing businesses by connecting them with industry expertise, encouraging collaboration and helping companies explore new opportunities for growth.

Delegates heard from industry representatives on the opportunities available within the defence sector before taking part in networking with fellow businesses and organisations from across the manufacturing community.

Councillor Ollie Vickers, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member for Jobs, Transport and Digital Connectivity, said: “Telford has a long-established reputation as one of the UK’s leading manufacturing locations, with businesses that have the skills, expertise and innovation to support the defence sector.

“Working alongside Make UK to deliver events such as this helps businesses strengthen connections, gain valuable industry insight and better understand the opportunities available within an important and growing market.

“Supporting our manufacturing sector remains a key priority, and we’re proud to bring businesses together to help them develop, collaborate and thrive.”

Chris Corkan from Make UK said: "The UK defence sector presents a significant opportunity for manufacturers across the Midlands and beyond. Many businesses already possess the engineering expertise, innovation and production capabilities needed to support defence supply chains, but understanding how to access these opportunities and build the right connections is essential.

"Events such as this bring manufacturers together with industry experts and partners, helping them navigate the sector, develop new relationships and identify potential routes to growth. We are delighted to be working with Invest Telford and Kuehne+Nagel Ltd to support businesses in exploring these opportunities and strengthening the UK's manufacturing and defence capabilities.

"The strength of British manufacturing lies in collaboration, and by connecting companies with the knowledge, networks and insights they need, we can help more businesses unlock opportunities in this strategically important sector." 

Telford is home to one of the UK’s strongest concentrations of advanced manufacturing businesses, with the sector playing a significant role in the borough’s economy. Through Invest Telford, the Council works closely with businesses to provide advice, facilitate partnerships and create opportunities that support business growth and investment.

The event is one of a series of sector-focused activities delivered by Invest Telford and Make UK, designed to help businesses access expert knowledge, build valuable connections and explore opportunities across key manufacturing markets.

To find out more about the support available through Invest Telford, visit www.investtelford.co.uk.