Nicholas Owen to speak about new supply chains and technologies

A free event to give West Midlands businesses an opportunity to become involved in new supply chains and technologies is to be staged next month.

Road to Rail: Supply Chains for the Future of Light Vehicle Manufacturing has been organised by C&W Business Solutions, alongside partners The West Midlands Growth Company and the Finditin Network. 

The online session, between 10.30am and noon on Wednesday, July 10, is designed to help SMEs across the region to develop an understanding of the emerging technologies required for the future of light vehicle manufacturing. 

The event, to be compered by renowned journalist and presenter Nicholas Owen, is part of The Supply Chain Transition Programme which is a new initiative being delivered on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority and Business Growth West Midlands. 

Businesses will hear more about Coventry Very Light Rail which is an innovative and affordable light rail system that has the potential to transform transport in small cities and connect with other modes of transport, and Light Electric Vehicles which will transform the way people travel shorter distances and is a growing market. 

James Hammett, Managing Director of UKTram, which is the voice of Very Light Rail and is helping the sector to grow collaboratively, is among the keynote speakers. 

Angus Brummit-Brown, Senior Project Manager at Coventry Very Light Rail, will also be presenting to highlight how the project is using the latest automotive expertise developed in Coventry and will transform Coventry city transport. 

Craig Humphrey, CEO of Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub Group, of which C&W Business Solutions is a part, said finding affordable, sustainable and efficient transport was becoming increasingly important as towns and cities grow as well as to meet the UK’s net zero targets. 

“We want to help businesses develop their understanding of a growing area of the economy, learn about current and future procurement requirements and access opportunities to become a supplier of the future for light vehicle manufacturing,” he said. 

“This event has been organised to attract SMEs who are currently operating in or have the potential to operate within Very Light Rail and the Electric Light Vehicles supply chain as well as potential customers and buyers.  

“It is perfect for SMEs who are already supplying related sectors in the region or those who have the ability to diversify within the automotive or advanced manufacturing and engineering supply chains to embrace these emerging technologies and new markets. 

“There are huge opportunities for suppliers as our economy changes to embrace these technologies and new markets. 

“This event will give West Midlands’ businesses the knowledge, tools and contacts they need to become suppliers of the future for light vehicle manufacturing in this exciting, emerging sector.” 

To register for this free event, please visit: https://www.finditincw.co.uk/events/book/road-to-rail-supply-chains-for-the-future-of-light-vehicle-manufacturing