Businesses in Down encouraged to apply for InterTradeIreland’s new Supply Chain and Sourcing Service

Businesses from each sector will benefit from an independent review of their supply chain to identify opportunities to save money by sourcing across the island, which will also contribute to a reduced carbon footprint.

InterTradeIreland is working in partnership with Blue Sky Food Consulting and MOAT Consultants to deliver the programme. Blue Sky Food Consulting will work directly with food businesses, and MOAT Consultants will work with manufacturing and engineering businesses.

The specialists will work with each business to complete an on-site supply chain audit and mapping exercise. This will involve conducting a walk-through of business operations, identifying and documenting areas or opportunities for potential cross-border solutions. Businesses may also be eligible for follow-up mentoring support to help maximise the opportunities identified.

Colin McCabrey, Director of Trade at InterTradeIreland said: “I’m delighted to launch our first Supply Chain and Sourcing Service. This initiative presents a great opportunity for 60 business across the island to receive support from sector-specific supply chain specialists from both the food industry and the manufacturing and engineering industry. Under their guidance, businesses will gain invaluable insights to enhance their supply chain operations by identifying new sales and sourcing opportunities on the island.”

Margaret Dineen, CEO & founder, Blue Sky Food Consulting, said: “As a food supply chain consultant within the industry, I understand the value of a service like this, which can hugely benefit any company to further grow and scale. I’m delighted to work in partnership with InterTradeIreland and directly with businesses to help them thrive in today’s competitive market.”

Aidan Farnan, Director at MOAT Consultants said: “We’re delighted to work in partnership with InterTradeIreland to deliver this new service to help SMEs identify and mitigate supply chain risks. If you’re a business operating in the manufacturing or engineering sector and looking to build a stronger and more resilient future, don’t miss out on this opportunity to strengthen your supply chain with expert support.”

To be eligible for support, businesses must:

Be operating in the food or manufacturing/engineering sector

Have less than 250 employees

Have a turnover of more than £50,000 and less than £40m (or euro equivalent)

Be a business registered in Ireland or Northern Ireland

Have a minimum of 12 months trading history

Limited places are available, and businesses are encouraged to apply without delay. Please visit: www.intertradeireland.com/supplychainandsourcingservice