Leading business figures have endorsed the campaign to get north-east companies spending their budgets with other local firms.
More than 235 companies – ranging from one-man bands to some of the region’s largest – have signed-up to the Buy North East Roll of Honour.
They have pledged to put local sourcing on the agenda of their next board meeting and move at least one piece of business to a local supplier.
Martin Gilbert, the co-founder and chief executive of one of Europe’s largest independent fund managers, Aberdeen Asset Management, has joined the Buy North East campaign, which aims to boost the region’s economy in the wake of the oil price slump.
Mr Gilbert said: “The Buy North East campaign is a great idea and one I fully support.
“I’m proud that Aberdeen AM over the years has procured goods and services from local suppliers.
“Not for sentimental reasons but because of the high quality standards many firms in the north-east have.
“Why look further afield when one can work with trusted companies and their people within our local community to the benefit of all.”
Another high profile business leader to back the campaign is Jeanette Forbes, chief executive of energy sector-focused information technology company PCL Group.
She said the Buy North East campaign could change perceptions of those living and spending in the region.
She added: “Throughout Scotland the perception has been that because of the energy sector our streets here in the north-east were paved with gold.
“The misconception is that although the energy sector plays a very important role in providing careers and work for many people, not everyone working in the energy sector lives in Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire nor does the majority of the disposable income earned by these individuals become reinvested into our city and shire as most live outside of this region.
“The Buy North East initiative will hopefully realign this thought process and in turn persuade those who are about to make purchasing decisions think a little closer to home on how that money would benefit our local people and wider community.”
The campaign, which will run over the coming weeks, is led by Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce, Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council – as well as Aberdeen Journals and Scottish Enterprise.
Your business can join by signing up to the Roll of Honour at www.buynortheast.co.uk.
