Mersey Maritime has organised ‘Investing in a connected future’ to take place on September 12 during London Shipping Week chaired by BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin. Tony McDonough reports

Industry body Mersey Maritime is to host an event in London that will showcase the Liverpool city region to potential investors.

Chaired by BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin, the event – ‘Investing in a connected future’ – at the Willis Building on September 12 will form part of International Shipping Week.

Liverpool city region is one of the fastest growing in England and the UK’s second largest sub-regional economy worth, more than £156.8bn.

The event aims to build on the momentum generated by recent major developments in the city, such as, the regeneration of the waterfront, the opening of the Liverpool2 container terminal, the expansion of the Knowledge Quarter innovation district and the creation of a centre for maritime skills and entrepreneurship.

Key themes for debate will include Liverpool’s growing reputation as an innovation hub, the importance of skills development among young people and entrepreneurs, and the vital role of connectivity.

Speakers will include senior representatives from Invest Liverpool, Knowledge Quarter Liverpool, Liverpool Airport, retailer B&M, Liverpool John Moores University, and Peel Ports. 

Chris Shirling-Rooke, Mersey Maritime’s chief , said: “We are bringing to London the very best that Liverpool has to offer and will be showcasing what the UK’s most prestigious port city can do for our economy.

“Investing in a connected future is all about opening the doors for business opportunities and investment that will benefit us all.

“We’re going to be joined by leaders in the maritime, business and academic worlds, from the UK and abroad, so it will be an excellent dialogue on the contribution that Liverpool is due to make in future of our industry.”