Cumbria Business Growth Hub has announced that it will be hosting a Meet the Buyer event in partnership with BAE Systems.

The event, which will take place on September 18 at The Forum in Barrow, is aimed at Small to Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) operating in the old Barrow Borough Council postcode area, or those with a physical site address in Barrow.

These businesses are being invited to attend the event if they have an interest in supplying their products or services into the Aerospace Defence and Security Sector.

The half-day event will feature two keynote speakers, Make UK Defence and BAE Systems, who will be discussing working within the Aerospace Defence and Security Sector.

Following the speakers, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with buyers from within the sector, as well as representatives from relevant trade bodies.

Lunch and networking opportunities will also be provided to those who are attending the event.

Lesley Robinson, Head of Business Support - Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, is delighted to be working with BAE Systems.

She said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for SMEs within the Barrow area to meet and speak directly to buyers. Part of the support we’re contracted to deliver is supply chain engagement and increasing opportunities for Barrow businesses to extend their supply chain – what a great way to start working with BAE Systems!”

Tom O'Byrne, Head of Supply Chain Excellence at BAE Systems Submarines, said: "Small to medium sized enterprises play a pivotal role providing key products, skills and intellectual property in support of our collective mission.

"These organisations contribute to our national endeavour working with, alongside and as part of the extended supply chain to design, build, test, and commission the most advanced submarines ever operated by the Royal Navy."

Interested parties are encouraged to register their interest by emailing Lesley Robinson, who will collect information before places can be allocated.

The Barrow Business and Enterprise Support programme, funded by Barrow Town Deal, is a collaboration between Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, Cumbria Business Growth Hub, and Cumbria Social Enterprise Partnership.