Birkenhead session is the first in a new programme of Maritime Knowledge Hub events that aims to cut through the cold-call process by bringing the right people together. Tony McDonough reports.

Port of Liverpool owner Peel Ports is to take part in a Dragons’ Den-style event for SMEs organised by Mersey Maritime.

Representatives of firms who feel they have a product, service or approach that can add value to the Peel Ports business will be able to make a presentation during the two-hour event.

It will take place at Mersey Maritime’s Maritime Knowledge Hub (MiHub) in Birkenhead on Wednesday, March 29.

It is the first in a new programme of MiHub vents that aims to cut through the cold-call process by bringing the right people together in an environment that can boost business opportunities.

Business with an offer that is of interest to the panel will be potentially fast-tracked onto the port operator’s supplier list, enabling them to compete for existing or future business.

The panel will comprise of Gary Hodgson, chief operating officer of Peel Ports Group; David Huck, port director; Adam Green, head of procurement;  and Brad Crumbleholme, head of engineering.

Chris Shirling-Rooke, chief executive of Mersey Maritime, said: “One of our key aims has always been to increase supply chain opportunities for SMEs.

“We are really excited to be working with Peel Ports to offer eligible SMEs the opportunity to access senior decision makers at one of the largest port operators in the UK.

“This is the first event like this that we have held and we are expecting it to be an interesting and busy morning for SMEs and Peel Ports.

“This event avoids the painful process of cold-calling and allows our members to directly access business decision makers.”