Find your next business opportunity at Forth Valley Meet the Real Buyer event
Local businesses and social enterprises across the Forth Valley are being invited to explore supply chain opportunities in a free-to-attend event at Alloa Town Hall.
Article Source: Stirling Council
Last Updated: 5 September 2025 15:29
Stirling Council has joined forces with Falkirk and Clackmannanshire Councils, as well as the Supplier Development Programme (SDP), to connect interested groups with public and private sector buyers on Tuesday, 16 September from 9.30am-1pm.
In addition to the headline partners, exhibitors also include organisations such as Business Gateway, FES, Forth Valley College, NHS Forth Valley, Ogilvie, the Robertson Group and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
The Meet the ‘Real’ Buyer event provides an opportunity to introduce businesses and social enterprises to procurement officials in an informal setting, as well as connecting with support bodies to help with business growth and advice on the bidding process.
Stirling Council leader, Cllr Gerry McGarvey, said: “Stirling Council spends approximately £140m per year with commercial organisations. A recent report from Ernst and Young suggested we will have the fastest-growing economy in Scotland over the next three years and be among the top four for growth in the UK.
“It is a clear signal of the opportunities emerging across our region – and the Meet the ‘Real’ Buyer event is a fantastic gateway for local businesses and social enterprises to tap into that momentum. By connecting directly with key contractors and public sector partners, organisations can build valuable relationships, gain insights into upcoming projects and secure places on vital procurement frameworks.
“We’re keen to open the door for local businesses to grow, collaborate, and play a central role in shaping our area’s future development.”
There is an annual public spend of around £16.6 billion in Scotland and SDP Scotland offers free training to support and champion the tendering for this work.
SDP Programme Manager, Gillian Cameron said: “It has been four years since the last Forth Valley Meet the ‘Real’ Buyer event and SDP is delighted to return to the region alongside our fellow exhibitors.
“With so many exciting contracts coming up in the area, there will be plenty to discuss. Tickets are limited, so early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.”
Businesses of all sizes are welcome to attend and can book their place now and a full list of exhibitors is also available. For more information, please contact: info@sdpscotland.co.uk
Anyone wishing to supply Stirling Council should register as a Supplier on Public Contracts Scotland. Registration is free and only takes a few minutes to complete. Support to access public sector opportunities is also available.
For general enquiries email procurement@stirling.gov.uk or telephone 01786 233384.
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