NE businesses should go for Olympics gold - McInnes

3.12.00pm GMT Fri 8th Feb 2008

Alison McInnes today called on North East businesses to apply for London Olympics contracts, describing the 2012 event as a "golden opportunity for businesses UK-wide."

The London Organising Committee (LOCOG) estimate that there are 75,000 outstanding business opportunities covering direct contractors and their supply chains over the coming years, and so far 50% of contracts awarded have gone to companies outside of London.

Commenting, McInnes said,

"£6bn of contracts will be available over the next five years, and I would urge North East business to consider applying for them."

She added, "I commend the London Organising Committee for avoiding the trap of making this an exclusive London event. The North East is a hotbed for business innovation and I hope that North East business will consider applying for contracts."

The first step for businesses is to register their interest at LOCOG's website at www.london2012.com/business.