More than 50 delegates from businesses across Sefton attended a ‘Meet the Buyer’ event organised by InvestSefton’s Business Growth Programme team.



The aim of the event was to give companies across the borough, particularly smaller contractors and suppliers, the chance to learn about a prestigious new mental health facility being built on the site of the old Southport Infirmary. The new facility will have 44 en-suite bedrooms, treatment rooms, a café and gardens.

Buyers and commissioners were in attendance from Merseycare NHS Foundation Trust and Farrans Heron Joint Venture (FHJV), who have been commissioned to build the centre later this year.

A broad range of businesses were present, with more than 30 types of products and services on offer, including building trades, electrical wholesale, locksmiths and a Southport-based low energy lighting manufacturer.

During the first half of the event businesses learned about the work packages to be let, FHJV’s supplier registration processes, and opportunities including collaborative bidding. There was also information on free support available from the Business Growth Programme and Sefton@Work.

The second part of the event comprised an ‘Ask the Buyer’ Q&A session, followed by meetings with the buyers. The event was rounded off with a business-to-business networking session, with collaborations forged on the day.



Cllr Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council’s Labour Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, said

“We are delighted to be working with FJHV on this new important development and have already seen some local businesses firming up meetings with the contractor to potentially win new contracts.

“The event, organised by InvestSefton, gave smaller local businesses the chance to meet up and try and secure new work within the borough benefiting everyone involved.

“This is another example of how Sefton Council act as enablers and facilitators for businesses in our borough and it aligns with our 2030 vision of helping to build resilient communities and businesses.

“Feedback from the day was excellent with 88% of respondents saying they were interested in collaborative working and collaborative bidding with other Sefton companies in the future.”