More than 25 companies from the region’s automotive supply chain showcased their expertise to car manufacturers including Aston Martin, SAIC and BMW at an event in the region.
Autolinks took place in Birmingham for the seventh year in a row to give firms the opportunity to talk to technology partners and explore the potential of knowledge transfer partnerships for developing new products and meeting the low carbon agenda.
It is anticipated that in excess of 100 meetings were held during the day, with early estimates suggesting millions of pounds of new work could have been identified for the West Midlands.
The event was backed by the Manufacturing Advisory Service –West Midlands (MAS-WM), UKTI and Birmingham City University.
Rachel Eade, automotive cluster manage for MAS-WM, said: “We had more than 25 SMEs in attendance, such as Brandauer, Powertrain, Sorion and Servosteel. The feedback about the contacts they made during the event has been extremely positive and there is already demand for a similar event next year.
“Low Carbon was also a major talking point and there were plenty of discussions about how the supply chain can get involved and work with academia to explore existing expertise.”
Rowan Crozier, sales director at contract presswork and stampings specialist Brandauer, added his support.
He said: “Autolinks is an essential way for us to meet potential customers and indeed suppliers in one day and all under one roof.
“It opens doors, reduces travel time and, by booking the meeting in advance, you know you are going to see the people you really want to.
“We made three excellent contacts on the day which could well lead to new value added contracts.”
MAS-WM Auto is a dedicated offer for automotive suppliers and is part of the organisation’s umbrella of support it offers to more than 1,900 manufacturers every year.
