The SME Forum is an opportunity for small and medium sized members to discuss the unique challenges they face. Moving purely online owing to the pandemic, details have been shared by ACE for the first quarter of 2021, with a strong focus on recovery and sessions on procurement.

Neil Humphrey new ACE chair Pipeline & Procurement will join the forum on Friday 5 February for a ‘have your say’ style event. This is a chance for SMEs to shape ACE activity in this area.

Meanwhile, Andrew Kinnibaugh, director general at the NDI, part of Make UK, will speak on defence sector procurement and preview an upcoming ‘meet the buyer’ event on Friday 19 February. 

Finally, Noble Francis, chief economist of the Construction Products Association (CPA) will speak to the forum to share his views on the economic outlook for the country and industry on Friday 5 March.

Steven Hale (Crofton), chair of the SME Forum said: “Throughout the pandemic, the forum has been a vital source of member support and guidance and has been crucial in providing a safe space for SME leaders to share concerns, ideas and support each other.

“We hope to continue in the same vein as we turn to recovery and I’m delighted to host sessions on procurement, as well as the return of Noble Francis who will share his expert view on the short to medium term outlook for the economy and our industry.”

ACE and EIC members interested in attending the SME Forum should email Chetna today for more details.