91ÖÆƬ³§¹ÙÍø

UK-based automotive suppliers looking to exploit a £3 billion opportunity were giving a helping hand this week with the first in a series of new SMMTevents designed to increase the UK’s supply chain share.

20 supply chain firms were invited to Open Access: Ford at the firm’s Dunton Technical Centre in Essex, where they were matched to specific buyers with a ‘shopping list’ of requirements.

The event was the first of 91ÖÆƬ³§¹ÙÍø’s new Open Access series which, through this new focused approach, aims to optimise UK suppliers’ chances of obtaining contracts with companies further up the chain.

On Ford’s wish-list was a variety of components involved in powertrain production, including prototyping, modelling, testing, engine mounts, air intake systems, exhaust and engine components. Feedback from Dunton attendees indicates that 75% of the meetings will be followed up, while 90% said that the event was either good or excellent.

A number of Open Access events at a variety of vehicle manufacturers and Tier-one suppliers will take place in 2014. Suppliers can register interest , and will be cherry picked for invitation based on the purchasing requirements of buyers at the host manufacturer. Manufacturers can find companies matching the demand criteria using 91ÖÆƬ³§¹ÙÍø’s (ASF), so suppliers are urged to keep ASF profiles accurate and up to date to improve their chance of invitation.

Enquiries should be sent to [email protected].