Member News
An innovative programme to connect our region’s businesses with vital supply chain opportunities is opening a new chapter with even more tailored support.
The refreshed Tees Valley Supply Chain will provide personalised advice from expert advisors and specialists – helping firms tackle supply chain challenges, enter new markets, and link with world-leading companies both in our region and further afield.
Businesses across Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton can all benefit from the fully-funded support.
This includes access to workshops, networking events, exhibitions and industry visits, as well as tailored guidance from third-party specialists.
Middlesbrough-based Harlum Services has already benefitted to find new opportunities with major firms.
Founded by former steelworkers Harry Taylor and Calum Brown, Harlum identified a pressing industry gap: appropriate welfare facilities for offshore workers which are low-maintenance and more inclusive for women.
Their Wind Turbine Welfare Unit addresses this need by providing toilet systems specifically designed for installation inside wind turbines – particularly when offshore wind is aiming to increase female representation to more a third by 2030.
Harlum first connected with the Tees Valley Supply Chain programme in 2023.
With support from RTC North advisors, they re-branded, established a base in Middlesbrough, and sharpened their business strategy.
And this led to fully funded participation in Offshore Wind NE 2024, where Harlum officially launched their Welfare Unit and made invaluable connections with leading industry players including RWE, Ørsted, and Equinor.
Calum Brown, Harlum Services Director said: “In a challenging funding landscape, RTC made it easy for us to launch our product. We continue to work closely with our advisor, Lesley, whose ongoing support is invaluable to our growth strategy.”
The new and improved supply chain programme is more ambitious than ever – with a stronger focus on international trade, practical productivity improvements and sector-specific opportunities.
It is designed to support companies at all stages, whether they are seeking to break into new markets, embrace innovation or strengthen their existing supply chains.
And the programme is also being supported by the North East Defence & Security Cluster, which will provide guidance and knowledge with opportunities and events.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We have world-leading firms on our doorstep – with more to come through huge projects coming to Teesworks and our wider Freeport.
“But they don’t flourish, and don’t work for people, if these big firms can’t access our own vital companies, our own expertise and our make the most of our strengths. This is exactly what the Supply Chain programme does – provide the ideal way of getting our businesses the backing, knowledge and focussed support they need to thrive.”
Manufacturing and engineering firms, energy companies, logistics and distribution companies, those in advanced manufacturing and technology, and firms looking to enter new markets are urged to get in touch.
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke, TVCA Cabinet Member for Inward Investment, added: “This is about making sure our businesses – from ambitious start-ups to established firms – have the tools they need to grow, diversify and win contracts.
“By connecting them with major projects, opportunities and specialist expertise, we’re helping to build their resilience and ultimately create more jobs for local people. As Harlum’s success shows, this a real chance for our businesses in Middlesbrough and our region to think bigger and take that next step.”
Jim Barr, RTC North Project Manager (Tees Valley Supply Chain), said: “RTC North are delighted to once again be involved in the delivery of this impactful programme. A refreshed approach and offer will help to showcase the fantastic businesses within the region to a much wider audience. Our experienced team is ready and waiting to support your business in innovating, competing, and growing your supply chain ambitions.”
Funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the programme is delivered by RTC North on behalf of the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority.
To find out more and register your interest, visit Supply Chain - Business
