Denbighshire leads the way in helping small businesses

The Council is ‘leading the way’ to help small firms secure public sector contracts, a business group has said.

The Council is helping local businesses by improving its procurement procedures and has been praised by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) for its work.

Ben Cottam, Federation of Small Businesses Wales’ Head of External Affairs, said: “FSB Wales has long enjoyed a close and productive relationship with Denbighshire County Council in boosting the opportunities for small businesses within the public sector supply chain.

“As we move to new ways of creating sustainable, local supply chains, we are pleased to see Denbighshire leading the way among authorities in innovating and looking for ways to embed local and diverse supply chains which not only benefits the public purse but grows local business and generates local economic activity.”

The Council is making it easier for firms to apply for contracts as part of the £100 million it spends with private and third sector organisations on goods, services and works needed to deliver public services each year.

It has produced new guidance for businesses and they can also register online to receive automatic updates when contracts are up for tender.

In 2016/2017 Denbighshire’s procurement spend was £113 million with more than £30 million spent with 938 different businesses in the county.

Figures do not include work carried out by Denbighshire based sub-contractors working for firms not based in the county.

Tom Booty, Denbighshire’s programme manager for Facilities, Assets and Housing, said: “Denbighshire is helping businesses based in the county gain a better understanding of the procurement process and make it easier for them to be considered for contracts.

“One of the aims of the Council’s Economic and Community Ambition Strategy is to help businesses in Denbighshire thrive.

“Using local suppliers to provide specific goods or services can lead to employment opportunities and job creation, as well as sustain existing jobs.

“We would encourage businesses to familiarise themselves with the procurement procedures and guidance on our website and give themselves the best chance to be considered for future contracts.”

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