Supporting business in Hull

Last week was business week in Hull, and I really enjoyed attending some of the events to support local business. It is one of the biggest events like this in the country, and it was great to see so many people involved in business wanting to invest in the region, and take advantage of some of the great opportunities in our area.

Sometimes it’s too easy for business to be labelled as the ‘bad’ guy, interested only in profit. But there was plenty of evidence over business week of businesses willing, and in fact eager, to give back to their local communities. Local businesses need our support. They are, after all, where many local jobs come from, and as such a core part of what we need to improve the local area.

There was much talk, of course, about the opportunities linked to the development of the wind farm industry in this area. It was good to hear from people already making the most of these opportunities, and those planning to be part of the supply chain. There was also positive talk about what will happen once the wind farms have been built, and the longer term opportunities such as maintenance.

The big challenge, of course, is whether Hull manages to make the most of the opportunities out there. There is a once in a lifetime opportunity with the investment of Siemens, and it is essential everyone involved does all they can to ensure we make the most of it.

So it was good to hear hopeful messages from local businesses keen to make the most of the opportunities out there. They deserve our support for all their hard work, which ultimately benefits us all.