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Thursday, February 13, 2025

Moray Council Shifts Focus to Personalised Support for Local Businesses

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Moray Council has announced plans to withdraw from the Supplier Development Programme (SDP) from the 2025/26 financial year, redirecting funds to offer bespoke support for local businesses.

The decision was confirmed during the Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee meeting on 4 February 2025.

The £4,000 plus VAT annual membership fee previously paid to the SDP will now be invested in personalised procurement support delivered locally.

This new approach will include one-to-one guidance and tailored workshops aimed at helping Moray businesses navigate the tendering process and secure public sector contracts.

While the SDP provided access to national procurement training, Moray businesses showed limited engagement.

In 2023/24, only nine businesses from Moray attended SDP events, with similar figures expected for 2024/25.

By focusing on direct local support, the council aims to equip businesses with the necessary skills to compete for contracts more effectively.

This strategy is designed to ensure that economic benefits are retained within Moray, supporting community growth and resilience.

Moray Council’s Business Gateway service will continue offering procurement advice alongside the new workshops and training sessions.

These sessions will be developed in collaboration with Moray Council’s procurement team to address specific local business needs.

Additionally, Moray businesses will still have access to free online guidance through the Scottish Government’s Supplier Journey website.

Cllr Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, emphasised the council’s commitment to local business support.

“Supporting local businesses remains a priority for Moray Council,” he stated.

“By redirecting our resources, we can provide hands-on, tailored support that meets the specific needs of Moray businesses.”

He added that this approach aligns with the council’s Community Wealth Building Strategy, aiming to boost local economic confidence and success.

Businesses seeking information on upcoming procurement support and workshops are encouraged to visit Moray Council’s website or contact the Business Gateway team directly.

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