Auto industry representatives heard about the work of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership and D2N2 Growth Hub at a major regional trade forum today (October 10).
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which represents more than 800 UK automotive companies, held its Regional Forum Midlands at Derby’s Pride Park Stadium today.
Among the invited speakers was Lindsay Wetton, Senior Programme Manager (Business Engagement) for the D2N2 LEP (pictured left on panel), who told around 200 delegates about services to businesses offered by the D2N2 Growth Hub; part of the D2N2 LEP which offers small and medium-sized enterprises help with business development, management and skills training, growth finance and with many other areas.
There was also information on the D2N2 LEP’s current work to refresh its Strategic Economic Plan – its ‘blueprint’ for long term development of its area – and ongoing consultation with businesses and others on what that should contain.
The D2N2 LEP is the private sector-led partnership of business, local authorities, skills and training providers, and community and voluntary organisations, promoting economic growth across Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Derbyshire.
The LEP’s eight key sectors include ‘transport and logistics’ and ‘transport equipment manufacturing’, both of great relevance to SMMT members.
Automotive manufacture and its supply chain firms are also a major employer in the D2N2 LEP area, with Toyota Burnaston in Derbyshire alone employing around 2,500 people.
Today’s Forum was used by the SMMT to launch its new ‘Brexit Readiness Programme’ to help the industry, especially SMEs in the automotive supply chain, prepare for the UK leaving the European Union.
For more information on how D2N2 is promoting transport-related key sectors in its area see web link www.d2n2lep.org/Key-Sectors
Further information about the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders can be found on its website at www.smmt.co.uk/
Media wanting more information about the D2N2 LEP can contact Sean Kirby, D2N2 Communications Manager, on 0115 9578749 or email: sean.kirby@d2n2lep.org
