Kuwait and see on £200m contracts

OLDHAM business Sellers Engineering has taken part in an outward trade mission to Kuwait.

Envirolink Northwest joined forces with UKTI (UK Trade and Investment) and Advantage West Midlands to pave the way for UK recycling and waste companies to enter the Middle Eastern market.

The trip meant that nine UK companies, including three waste and recycling industry suppliers from the North-West, were introduced to potential clients.

The municipality of Kuwait is tendering for new environmental services to the value of £200 million over the next five years, with the first being implemented in 2010.

The trade visit laid the foundations for UK companies to become suppliers when the tender is received next year.

Sellers Engineering Ltd, in Drury Lane, Chadderton, is the leading UK manufacturer of Eurobins, containers and material handling equipment for the waste and recycling industry

The visit saw the company build relationships in the Middle East to further expand their business.


Minister told of Chamber concerns

OLDHAM members of Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce met Government Minister Phil Woolas at the Bower Hotel, Chadderton, to address the concerns of local businesses.

Arranged by Local Chamber Council president Paul Roberts, the meeting brought together representatives from sectors, including engineering, information technology, recruitment and law, to discuss the rise in National Insurance contributions, bank lending and late payment to sub-contract firms.

Attendees suggested penalties should be introduced regarding late payment.

Brian Sloan, head of business and economic policy at Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said afterwards: “There was a useful exchange of ideas and views.

“Phil Woolas fed back to the group, directly from Lord Mandelson, on issues raised at the previous meeting that took place in December.

“He also told the group that engagement with Chamber members was important to his work, as this gave him practical examples to discuss with civil servants.”

Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce is holding a number of events with Parliamentary candidates over the next two weeks.

More information about the events, which are free to attend, can be found at www.gmchamber.co.uk