An innovative programme to connect our region's businesses with
vital supply chain opportunities is opening a new chapter with
even more tailored support.
The refreshed Tees Valley Supply Chain will provide personalised
advice from expert advisors and specialists – helping firms
tackle supply chain challenges, enter new markets, and link with
world-leading companies both in our region and further afield.
Businesses across Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar
and Cleveland, and Stockton can all benefit from the fully-funded
support.
This includes access to workshops, networking events, exhibitions
and industry visits, as well as tailored guidance from
third-party specialists.
Middlesbrough-based Harlum Services has already benefitted to
find new opportunities with major firms.
Founded by former steelworkers Harry Taylor and Calum Brown,
Harlum identified a pressing industry gap: appropriate welfare
facilities for offshore workers which are low-maintenance and
more inclusive for women.
Their Wind Turbine Welfare Unit addresses this need by providing
toilet systems specifically designed for installation inside wind
turbines – particularly when offshore wind is aiming to increase
female representation to more a third by 2030.
Harlum first connected with the Tees Valley Supply Chain
programme in 2023.
With support from RTC North advisors, they re-branded,
established a base in Middlesbrough, and sharpened their business
strategy.
And this led to fully funded participation in Offshore Wind NE
2024, where Harlum officially launched their Welfare Unit and
made invaluable connections with leading industry players
including RWE, Ørsted, and Equinor.
Calum Brown, Harlum Services Director said: “In a challenging
funding landscape, RTC made it easy for us to launch our product.
We continue to work closely with our advisor, Lesley, whose
ongoing support is invaluable to our growth strategy.”
The new and improved supply chain programme is more ambitious
than ever – with a stronger focus on international trade,
practical productivity improvements and sector-specific
opportunities.
It is designed to support companies at all stages, whether they
are seeking to break into new markets, embrace innovation or
strengthen their existing supply chains.
And the programme is also being supported by the North East
Defence & Security Cluster, which will provide guidance and
knowledge with opportunities and events.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We have world-leading firms
on our doorstep – with more to come through huge projects coming
to Teesworks and our wider Freeport.
“But they don't flourish, and don't work for people, if these big
firms can't access our own vital companies, our own expertise and
our make the most of our strengths. This is exactly what the
Supply Chain programme does – provide the ideal way of getting
our businesses the backing, knowledge and focussed support they
need to thrive.”
Manufacturing and engineering firms, energy companies, logistics
and distribution companies, those in advanced manufacturing and
technology, and firms looking to enter new markets are urged to
get in touch.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke, TVCA Cabinet Member for Inward
Investment, added: “This is about making sure our businesses –
from ambitious start-ups to established firms – have the tools
they need to grow, diversify and win contracts.
“By connecting them with major projects, opportunities and
specialist expertise, we're helping to build their resilience and
ultimately create more jobs for local people. As Harlum's success
shows, this a real chance for our businesses in Middlesbrough and
our region to think bigger and take that next step.”
Jim Barr, RTC North Project Manager (Tees Valley Supply Chain),
said: “RTC North are delighted to once again be involved in the
delivery of this impactful programme. A refreshed approach and
offer will help to showcase the fantastic businesses within the
region to a much wider audience. Our experienced team is ready
and waiting to support your business in innovating, competing,
and growing your supply chain ambitions.”
Funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
(UKSPF), the programme is delivered by RTC North on behalf of the
Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority.
To find out more and register your interest, visit Supply Chain - Business
