An event designed to boost business in Brent has proved so popular that £100 million worth of contracts have been made available.

The ‘Meet the Buyer’ event, hosted by Brent Council, seeks to provide small and medium-sized businesses in the borough with jobs on major regeneration schemes.

They will get to speak with larger companies – including McAleer and Rushe, Catalyst, and St George – in the hope of securing sub-contracted work.

Initially there was £60 million worth of projects on the table, but the event’s popularity has seen the value jump by two-thirds.

And the council is still encouraging as many businesses as possible to take advantage.

Cllr Shama Tatler, responsible for planning and regeneration at Brent Council, said: “Our ‘Meet the Buyer’ events are a key part of our work to support local economic growth and aim to ensure that the regeneration that’s happening in Brent directly benefits Brent businesses, Brent jobs and Brent residents.

“I’d encourage any small business in Brent to attend this event and show the large companies that whatever their need, be it a job worth a few thousand pounds or several million, they need look no further then what’s already here in Brent.”

The council has also organised the opportunity for businesses in Brent to attend a free workshop hosted by supply-chain specialists to help them prepare any pitches.

Organisers have advised interested parties to book early for the ‘Meet the Buyer’ event, which will be held on July 11 at Brent Civic Centre, as there are limited places available.