Supplier development seminar to be held in Clarenville

Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, announced today that her department is hosting a Supplier Development Seminar on Thursday, March 16, in Clarenville, in cooperation with the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, Newfoundland and Labrador Division.

"These seminars are an effective way for government to educate the local business community about government purchasing requirements," said Minister Dunderdale. "It also allows government to gain insight into the supplier capabilities that exist in this province."

The seminar will take place Thursday, March 16 at St. Jude Hotel from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will include presentations from federal, provincial and local procurement specialists, followed by a networking lunch.

"The establishment of key relationships is very important to local businesses," said Bill Stirling, vice-president of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, Newfoundland and Labrador. "Identifying markets for local businesses is very important to their success, so it is important they are aware of all of the opportunities available to them."

Many seminars have been held throughout the province over the past year. The most recent was held in Plum Point and attracted 19 companies. A total of 145 companies throughout the province have participated in supplier development seminars to date.

The Supplier Development Initiative is a partnership of the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development and the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters. It is designed to strengthen the relationship and understanding between public sector purchasing agents and private sector groups and thereby facilitate the development of our local supplier community.

Media contact:
Lynn Evans, Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, (709) 729-4570, 690-6290
Bill Stirling, CME, (709) 772-3654

2006 03 09                                      2:20 p.m.