YORK must play to its strengths and shout about its successes, York business conference was told.
The virtual event on Monday kicked off five days of events as part of York Business Week, which is now in its 11th year.
Cllr Andrew Waller, cabinet member for economic growth at York council, said the programme aimed to lend support through difficult times.
It was also about showcasing projects emerging out of the pandemic and celebrating success stories, he said.
“Let’s not be afraid to point out where York is doing well, indeed better than anywhere else in the country,” he said.
The message was endorsed by one of the speakers, Jon Geldart, director general, Institute of Directors, who highlighted the need to promote York as a vibrant economy and its opportunities for young people.
“We have to play to our strengths.When people look at the north they see certain things. The good thing is the old perception is changing. In York and the north east and out to Hull we are starting to change the narrative and that’s important.”
He said people complained about transportation links in North Yorkshire, stressing the need to keep pressure on Government to improve the digital infrastructure.
He said a robust infrastructure for York and the region was vital to support and create jobs, while retaining and attracting talent.
“Getting the Government to do things that are iconic is important, as much as it is getting them to do things that help the framework in which businesses can operate,” he said.
“If we have a digitally-based economy that means young people don’t have to go to Leeds, or London to get a job and flourish. They can do that here.
“I am a real advocate for improving the digital skills but also the digitisation up into North Yorkshire to make sure, when online, people have the ability to serve the world from North Yorkshire. That’s where we’re going to see innovation, job retention and wages increase.”
The annual conference marked the start of York Business Week 2021 which is in its 11th year and offers a host of workshops, sessions and networking opportunities designed to support and connect local businesses.
Small business owners are being invited to share experiences and find support at an in-person event – What keeps you awake at night?, organised by the Small Business Peer to Peer Network Programme, on Wednesday, November 10 at Spark York.
The University of York is hosting tours on Wednesday, November 10, and Friday, November 12 to showcase how the Guildhall, built in the 15th century, will be transformed into a centre for enterprise development.
Another Business Week highlight, Future of Bricks & Clicks, hosted by York BID at Malmaison on Thursday, November 11, welcomes retail expert Jack Stratten who will highlight upcoming trends, and share clear ways businesses can get ahead in the digital world.
Meanwhile, employers will be sharing how they are adapting work spaces as staff return on Friday, November 12.
For full programme details visit www.yorkbusinessweek.co.uk/programme.
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