THE North-east business community has been urged to support the regional economy at an event held to promote and celebrate local commerce.
Chief executive of Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Russell Borthwick asked businesses to think about how they can help keep the tens of millions of pounds spent by local companies circulating within the region.
He was speaking at the first Ultimate Business Show, organised by the Chamber and held at the AECC, which attracted over 750 visitors across the day.
Russell said: “The Ultimate Business Show has proved a great success, not least in its aim to promote and celebrate commerce in North-east Scotland.
“It presents the perfect platform for attendees to source products or services locally that can help save them money, while helping keep the North-east economy buoyant.
“At a time when the regional economy is feeling the draught from the oil and gas sector downturn, it is more important than ever that we ‘Think North-east First’.
“We have brought together 75 of the highest profile businesses in the region who are ready and willing to talk about how they can help other companies work differently, smarter, provide solutions and save money.
“Tens of millions of pounds are spent every year by local organisations with companies based elsewhere in the UK and further afield.
“We are asking them to consider how we can keep this cash circulating in and contributing to the regional economy.”