Press Release

Local firms take opportunity to "Meet the Buyers"

 

08 July 2010

Representatives from over 120 local businesses attended the 9th annual Gatwick Meet the Buyers event, held on the 8 July at the Arora Hotel, Crawley. 

The always-popular event gave local businesses the chance to introduce their products and services to buyers from over 35 major organisations based in and around Gatwick.  The event was officially opened by Henry Smith MP for Crawley.

Over the last nine years, it is estimated that Gatwick Meet the Buyers has helped local businesses to win over £10 million in new contracts.

Meet the Buyers places potential buyers on stands for relevant local suppliers to sell to in a series of pre-arranged appointments. Suppliers are matched to the buyers’ purchasing requirements in advance of the event which saves companies valuable time looking for suitable suppliers. Over 900 face to face meetings are estimated to have taken place during the one day event.

Henry Smith, MP for Crawley, opened and praised the event, said: “Gatwick Meet the Buyers presents a real opportunity for local businesses. The potential of Gatwick-based companies to increase procurement locally and develop business locally is a win-win situation for all as it's important to develop purchasing relationships as neighbours."

Nick Dunn, Chief Financial Officer, Gatwick said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring this event, this, our first year competing to make Gatwick, London’s airport of choice for passengers and airlines. 

“This event adds real value to the economy by helping local companies win new business. Last year, Gatwick Meet the Buyers generated an estimated £2.5 million in new business, an impressive figure that we aim to beat this year,” added Nick.

Gatwick Meet the Buyers is supported by Gatwick Airport, Gatwick Diamond Business Association, West Sussex County Council, Crawley Borough Council, Mid Crawley District Council, Horsham District Council, Business Link and West Sussex Economic Partnership.

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