Strengthening Local Supply Chains and Expanding Global Reach
Schedule
Thu Jun 11 2026 at 06:00 pm to 08:00 pm
UTC+01:00Location
AV Dawson | Middlesbrough, EN
About this Event
Family Business UK, A V Dawson and North East Chamber of Commerce event are bringing together regional business leaders, policymakers and industry experts for a special evening discussion on the future of supply chains and international trade in the North East.
Hosted by AV Dawson at their excellent events suite at the Port of Middlesbrough this event will explore how the region can strengthen local supply chains while expanding its global reach. With panoramic views of one of the UK’s most important working ports and the iconic Transporter Bridge, the venue provides a fitting backdrop to a conversation about the North East’s industrial heritage and its future as a centre of international commerce.
Event Theme: Connecting the North East: Local Supply Chains and Global Ambitions
What the event will cover
The discussion will explore key issues facing businesses across the region, including:
1. Building resilient local supply chains in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics and energy
2. Creating new export opportunities for North East businesses
3. Strengthening collaboration between industry, government and family-owned businesses
4. Supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises through local procurement
5. Encouraging closer regional cooperation between the North East and Tees Valley Combined Authorities
Speakers
The evening will feature a panel discussion with:
· Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor
· Phil Witcherley, Director of Economic Growth and Innovation, North East Combined Authority
The discussion will be followed by a moderated audience question and answer session.
Programme
· 6.00pm – Arrival and Networking Reception: Guests arrive, register and enjoy a welcome drink and light refreshments.
· 6.30pm – Welcome Remarks: Opening remarks from AV Dawson and the North East Chamber of Commerce.
· 6.40pm – Panel Discussion: “Building a Competitive, Connected North East”.
· 7.20pm – Audience Q&A.
· 7.50pm – Closing Remarks.
· 8.00pm – Informal Networking.
Who should attend
This event is aimed at:
· Regional business leaders and entrepreneurs
· Manufacturing and exporting companies
· Supply chain and logistics firms
· Policymakers and local government representatives
· Universities, innovation organisations and business support partners
About the organisers
The event is jointly hosted by Family Business UK, AV Dawson and the North East Chamber of Commerce and bringing together businesses and policymakers to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the regional economy.
What do I wear to a Chamber event: We don’t have a dress code, but we suggest dressing as if meeting new clients. Your comfort is key.
Behaviour and conduct: our events create an inclusive space for individuals and organisations to meet, where we expect all our attendees to behave with courtesy and respect, to both each other and Chamber colleagues.
Where is it happening?
AV Dawson, Riverside Park Road, Middlesbrough, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00


















