Renfrewshire's economy put in the spotlight at special conference
The annual Renfrewshire Economy Conference took place at Paisley Town Hall.
The future of Renfrewshire's economy was in the spotlight at a special conference.
Business leaders, public sector partners, community organisations and policymakers came together to discuss future direction and growth.
The annual Renfrewshire Economy Conference took place at Paisley Town Hall with keynote speakers including Mairi Spowage from the Fraser of Allander Institute; Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce chair Bob Grant; and Renfrewshire Council's head of economy and development services Alasdair Morrison.
Scotland's economic and fiscal outlook, the role of business-led growth in regional prosperity, and Renfrewshire's economic strategy were items on the agenda as attendees were given an overview of the economic landscape during a captivating morning session.
Mr Grant said: 'The conference was an excellent opportunity to bring partners involved in economic development within Renfrewshire together to connect and learn from each other.
'The focus on challenges and future opportunities for our SME [small and medium-sized enterprises] community was a powerful reminder of the crucial contribution a thriving business community makes to the growth of our region's economy.'
Further speeches were made by Chris Brodie of Skills Development Scotland who covered employment, skills gaps and future skills, while Kevin Rush, director of regional economic growth with the Glasgow City Region, highlighted future investments and key developments.
Mr Rush said: 'It was great to meet with so many ambitious and forward-thinking Renfrewshire businesses.
'Events like the Renfrewshire Economy Conference are vital in helping us collectively understand the challenges and opportunities across our regional economy.
'The £160 million investment zone represents a major vote of confidence in Glasgow City Region and our collaborative model of economic development.
'It will unlock new investment, boost productivity and drive growth across sectors – particularly here in Renfrewshire – where our strengths in advanced manufacturing and innovation will play a central role.
'Working in partnership across local authorities, government and business, we are better able to shape and deliver the kind of inclusive, sustainable growth that benefits all our communities. This conference is a powerful example of that collaboration in action.'
Breakout table sessions then allowed reflections to be made on shared achievements, current and forthcoming challenges, and how partnerships can be formed to take advantage of the economic opportunities in Renfrewshire across the coming decades.
Councillor Andy Steel, convener of Renfrewshire Council's economy and regeneration policy board, opened the conference.
He said: 'I was delighted to be part of such a positive conference which brought together leading voices from our local and national economies as we seek to learn from each other and identify the opportunities we have to work together for the benefit of Renfrewshire.
'It's important that we do not work in silos as the greatest rewards will be found through partnership working and recognising the important role we all play in Renfrewshire's economy and its development.
'It was fascinating to hear the insight from the keynote speakers and take part in the table discussions.
'And I look forward to the lessons learned being taken forward in Renfrewshire as we continue to develop a strong, diverse economy which creates opportunities for all.'
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