Businesses across Shropshire are invited to the ‘Winning Together: Shropshire Supply Chain Opportunities’ breakfast event in February designed to connect small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with major contractors seeking local suppliers for key projects across the county.

Building on the success of the retrofitting event last year (see photo below) which attracted over 100 delegates, this year’s breakfast will take place on 24th February from 8:00am to 11:00am.

The focus is to empower small to medium sized businesses (SMEs) – particularly those in the construction trades – to secure a place in the County’s most significant upcoming projects.

A key feature will be news of Star Housing’s new £30 million framework, one of several major initiatives that represent substantial opportunities for local suppliers.

Attendees will benefit from direct access to leading contractors such as Wrekin Housing, PSG, CT ECO, Broad Oak, and ARH Group who will host stands and deliver presentations outlining their development plans. The morning will provide practical insights into contract requirements, procurement processes, and the specific skills and services needed from local suppliers.

The event also aims to facilitate meaningful networking, allowing construction SMEs to engage with decision-makers, discuss partnership opportunities, and gain clarity on how to position themselves for success in large-scale contracts.

Matt Potts, Service Manager for Economy, Funding and Skills at Shropshire Council said,

“By connecting local SMEs directly with major contractors, we’re not only looking to support business expansion but also to ensure that investment stays within Shropshire. This approach helps nurture local talent, builds lasting business relationships, and creates a more resilient economy that benefits everyone in our communities.”

Ruth Ross, chief executive of Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, said procurement events are vital to the local economy.

“Small suppliers often have the talent and capacity to deliver but struggle to access major employers. These events help change that by creating meaningful, face‑to‑face conversations. For larger organisations, it’s a chance to connect with agile local partners; for smaller businesses, it builds confidence and opens doors. By bringing buyers and suppliers together, we’re strengthening supply chains, unlocking potential, and keeping more economic value rooted in Shropshire.”

Councillor Rob Wilson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Economic Growth, said:

“As a Council, we’re committed to creating the right environment for local businesses to thrive. This event is a fantastic example of how collaboration between public and private sectors can open doors for our SMEs, helping them to compete for significant contracts and contribute to the prosperity of Shropshire. I encourage all eligible businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and make a real difference locally.”

 This event is being organised by the Affordable Warmth & Energy Efficiency team at Shropshire Council and Shropshire Growth Hub in partnership with the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, Invest in Shropshire and Invest Telford. The event is possible due to core funding from the Marches Growth Hub, provided by the Department for Business and Trade.

 Spaces for the event are limited. Local suppliers interested in expanding their business and forging new partnerships are encouraged to secure their place early.

To find out more and to register your interest please see: Winning Together: Shropshire Supply Chain Opportunities Tickets, Tue, Feb 24, 2026 at 8:00 AM | Eventbrite

Notes to Editors

 The Shropshire Growth Hub is part of Invest in Shropshire at Shropshire Council. It provides information and support for businesses in the Shropshire Local Authority area. It runs an extensive yearly calendar of free events and webinars and offers advice on grants, loans, and assistance for companies of any size or sector, from start-ups to established enterprises.

The main contract funding the work of the Shropshire Growth hub is the Marches Growth Hub (MGH) core funding through the Department for Business and Trade.

 Affordable Warmth & Energy Efficiency team

Shropshire Council’s Affordable Warmth & Energy Efficiency team secures government grants to fund large‑scale energy efficiency upgrades across the county. To deliver these improvements, we rely on strong partnerships with local suppliers and contractors. By working together, we keep investment in Shropshire, create and maintain skilled jobs, and accelerate the transition to warmer, safer and more sustainable homes, for the betterment of our residents.