On 11th May 2016, West Bromwich Albion FC hosted the Black Country LEP’s Annual Conference.

The prestigious event was presented by Sameena Ali-Khan from ITV News Central and speakers included Dr Chris Handy, Chief Executive of the Accord Group, Ninder Johal of Nachural Records and Events, Wolverhampton Council’s MD Keith Ireland and international businessman Lord Digby Jones.

There were over 150 guests in attendance, from Black Country businesses, public and private sector organisations and professional bodies. The main topics covered were progress and developments in the region, and the Partnership’s role in the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The event also saw the official launch of the Black Country Annual Economic Review, containing key statistics about the local market. With a rising population, manufacturing jobs at their highest level since 2010, rising wages, a more qualified workforce and a larger number of active businesses than at any time in the last ten years, Lord Digby Jones described the Black Country as “a place gearing itself up for global competitiveness”, while Dr Chris Handy OBE praised it is “a prime location to live, work and invest in”.

You can download the full Black Country Annual Economic Review or take a look at our Business Services pages to see how Think Sandwell could help with your business development plans.