Task force established to support region's manufacturers

28/01/2009

A regional taskforce is to be established in Yorkshire and Humber to support the region’s manufacturing industry.

Yorkshire Forward has invited key representatives from the regional industry, including the Engineering Employers Federation (EFF) and Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) – as well as regional business leaders – to form a taskforce that will feed into Government the key issues and opportunities currently facing the regional industry.

The taskforce will be chaired by Richard Wright, CEO of regionally based Intertius Ltd and former President of the Sheffield Chamber of Commerce. It will focus on identifying the key measures that can support the regional industry in the grip of the economic downturn, such as innovation and training, whilst also addressing its future opportunities for growth.

Tom Riordan, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Forward explains; “Manufacturing is a key component of our regional economy and it is vital that we support it as it works to manage the impacts of an incredibly difficult economic climate.

“Yorkshire Forward is not in a position to cure the issues currently facing our regional economy, but we can ensure that all regional companies get the best support possible as they fight to survive this downturn and equally importantly, prepare for the recovery.”

Regional representatives are currently being invited to join the taskforce and it will meet for the first time in February.

Notes to editors:

Yorkshire Forward

  • Yorkshire Forward is the Regional Development Agency behind the economic regeneration of Yorkshire and Humber. It aims to make a positive difference by investing in jobs, improving towns and cities, and in supporting businesses throughout the region.
  • Over the past year, Yorkshire Forward has created and safeguarded more than 27,000 new jobs; helped create and attract more than 1,100 new businesses, provided nearly 66,000 learning opportunities and attracted more than £333 million private sector finance - achieving or exceeding all of the targets it was set.
  • Yorkshire Forward’s investment across the region is maximised by attracting European Regional Development Funding from the Objective One and Two programmes.
  • For further information, images or to arrange an interview, please contact Victoria Pourzand, Senior Press Officer on 0113 3949904 or on 07736181063 or email victoria.pourzand@yorkshire-forward.com