VSBW Meet the Buyer hailed a resounding success
Over 100 companies and 250 attendees from across Kent and the South East turned out for the Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) Meet the Buyer event last week to learn about the scope of the forthcoming marine civil engineering works.
The event was hosted by the Port of Dover and VolkerStevin Boskalis Westminster (VSBW), in partnership with Constructionline, at Dover’s iconic Cruise Terminal 1 (CT1).
Local businesses were able to discuss sub-contracting opportunities with both the Port of Dover’s procurement team, DWDR project team and the VSBW commercial team. At the event, contractors were provided with details of forthcoming work packages and given the opportunity to tender.
Jack Goodhew, General Manager – Special Projects, Port of Dover, said: “The day was a resounding success and it was apparent from the sheer volume of attendees that there is a real interest to be involved in the build of this exciting project. We are committed to working with local businesses and have already engaged a number on the build so far.”
Stuart Eckersley, Project Director for VSBW, stated: “Bringing together potential subcontractors and suppliers with a large principal contractor in this way is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the local economy, bringing contractors together to forge new business relationships and bring job and training opportunities for local people.”
The event was a prime opportunity, in an informal environment, for the project teams to give local businesses and contractors an insight into the complex requirements needed to deliver this exciting development.
Natalie Hart, Key Account Manager for Constructionline said: “Constructionline were delighted to be a part of VSBW and Port of Dover's supplier engagement event. We believe strongly in the value that local suppliers can provide to main contractor supply chains, and continue to proactively support events like this.”