The Cumbrian Economy
Cumbria's economy comprises over 8500 employers and a workforce of just under a quarter of a million people. Together they produce goods and services whose annual value is estimated at £4.7 billion.
Two important and distinguishing sectors are tourism, which provides employment for over 11% of the workforce, and agriculture, where direct and indirect employment provides work for just under 12%.
In addition the County has a number of unique claims to fame. Not only are we the home of Britains premier nuclear research establishment (BNFL) at Sellafield in West Cumbria with a principal naval shipyard at VSEL in Barrow but Cumbria is also the site of the largest quiche producer in Europe (Cavrays in Carlisle).
There are numerous sources of assistance available to support the development of business in Cumbria.
A Brief Guide on How to do Business with Cumbria County Council
Cumbria County Council aims to establish and maintain economical, efficient and effective purchasing arrangements for all goods and services required within the Authority.
Our goal is to secure ‘best value for money’ and we are always happy to discuss our contracts and purchasing arrangements with potential suppliers in order to achieve this.
We have a keen interest in supporting the local economy and local suppliers are particularly encouraged to register with us to gain the opportunity to bid for business.
In all dealings with suppliers and potential suppliers, our officers will do their utmost to preserve the highest standards of honesty, integrity, impartiality and objectivity and will treat all suppliers in a professional, transparent and ‘even handed’ way.
Organisations interested in trading with us can now access a portal where details of our tendering opportunities, and those of other local authorities in the region, are available. Registering on this site is free and easy and will enable your organisation to access and tender for a range of contracts.
http://www.thechest.nwce.gov.uk (external link)
For further information please contact Les Hopcroft Procurement Manager on 01228 606967 or email: leslie.hopcroft@cumbriacc.gov.uk
A brief guide on how to do business with Cumbria County Council (pdf)