by 4theManagement | Jul 10, 2026 | News, Our Events, Past, Reports
South West Wales leaders call for ‘whole value’ procurement to keep wealth local
A coalition of regional businesses has identified practical steps to help major investment create local jobs and stronger supply chains.
Business leaders and anchor institutions across South West Wales are calling for urgent action to keep more economic value in the region.
They want organisations to use their spending power more strategically. As a result, regional investment could support more local jobs, businesses and communities.
Why local procurement matters
4theRegion convened a high-level roundtable at the Swansea offices of Redkite Solicitors. The discussion focused on the localisation of supply chains. In particular, attendees considered how local businesses could benefit from major regional investment. South West Wales is expecting significant investment through projects such as freeports and renewable energy. However, these projects will only benefit the wider region if local SMEs can compete for and win contracts.
Representatives from housing, finance, food, professional services and construction took part in the discussion. They warned that many public and private procurement systems continue to favour scale and the lowest price. Consequently, national suppliers can have an advantage over smaller regional businesses. This approach can overlook local knowledge, community benefits and the wider economic impact of keeping money within the region.
Keeping investment rooted in the region
As host of the roundtable, Redkite Solicitors highlighted the importance of creating lasting regional value. Katherine Simpson, Head of Residential Property at Redkite Solicitors and Regional Partner for its Swansea offices, said:
“As a firm rooted in communities across Wales, we see every day how local knowledge, local relationships, and accessible professional services make a real difference to people and businesses. South West Wales has enormous potential, and if we want major investment to translate into long-term prosperity, we must make it easier for regional suppliers and SMEs to be visible, prepared, and genuinely considered. Keeping more value within South West Wales is not only good procurement, it is good place-making.”
Moving from lowest price to whole value
The alliance is calling for a shift from “lowest price” to “whole value”. This approach would consider more than the initial cost of a contract. For example, it would recognise local employment, supply-chain resilience, carbon reduction and retained regional wealth. Zoe Antrobus, Director of 4theRegion, said:
“South West Wales has everything it needs to be a thriving, resilient region – talented people, ambitious businesses, strong communities, and huge opportunities on the horizon. But unless we are intentional about connecting investment to local suppliers, local jobs, and local young people, we risk watching the benefits pass us by.“This conversation was about moving from good intentions to practical action. How do we make sure a young person in our region can see a practical route into a good local job created by this investment?”
The role of anchor institutions
The discussion also highlighted the important role of anchor institutions. These are organisations with a long-term presence and significant spending power within a region. They include housing associations, food suppliers and financial institutions.
Organisations such as Tai Tarian, Caredig, Castell Howell and Swansea Building Society can therefore help strengthen regional supply chains through their everyday purchasing decisions. Simon Griffiths, Director of Commercial Supply Chain at Ethos Chain, offered to support local SMEs through free tender-readiness surgeries. He said:
“Procurement should not just be treated as a buying process. It is one of the most powerful economic development tools we have. If we want local supply chains to grow, businesses need visibility of what is coming, time to prepare, and procurement models that properly recognise whole value – not just lowest cost.”
Standing, from left: Jonathan Morris, Tai Tarian; Solitaire Pritchard, Codi Group; Simon Griffiths, Opus BS; Michael Jones, Bevan Buckland; Leon Jones, Green Light Technology Solutions; Paul James, Redkite Solicitors; Dan Thomas, Beacon; Jordan Thomas, Redkite Solicitors; Danni Watts-Jones, DWJ Wealth Management; Jo Vazquez, Quatro Gymnastics; Nathan Griffiths, Swansea Building Society; and Ed Morgan, Castell Howell.
Seated, from left: Lucy Roberts, Caredig; Zoe Antrobus, 4theRegion; and Katherine Simpson, Clare Tregoning and Rhian Davies of Redkite Solicitors.
Turning discussion into action
Moving quickly from discussion to immediate action, the leaders identified several critical steps to transform the regional economy:
- Supplier Spend Mapping: Piloting a postcode-level audit of where regional anchor institutions currently spend their money to identify “leakage” and shift spend locally.
- Pipeline Visibility: Campaigning for transparent, forward-looking procurement pipelines so local SMEs have the time to prepare, invest, and form consortia.
- Tender-Readiness Support: Launching practical surgeries and guidance to help small and medium-sized businesses compete for larger regional contracts.
- Youth Employment Links: Directly connecting regional supply chains to youth employment, using models like the Green Careers Pathway to ensure inclusive opportunities.
- A ‘Front Door’ for Business: Establishing 4theRegion as a central gateway for business-to-business connections, helping local firms find trusted suppliers and collaborate.
The summit forms part of 4theRegion’s ongoing mission to unite people, businesses, and organizations around the shared goal of cultivating a happier, healthier, and economically thriving South West Wales.
Get involved
Contact 4theRegion to learn more or to get involved in future events and regional conversations.
4theRegion is an independent, not-for-profit alliance working to co-create a happier, healthier South West Wales with a thriving economy.
Join us and help shape the future of the region.
by 4theManagement | Jun 15, 2026 | News, Our Events, Past, Reports
EVENTS > ITS YOUR PEMBROKESHIRE 2026
It’s Your Pembrokeshire 2026
Tuesday 19th May 2026
It’s Your Pembrokeshire 2026 brought together businesses, community groups, social enterprises, public bodies, young people, educators, volunteers and local organisations from across the county, for a day of discussion at The Queen’s Hall in Narberth. The purpose of the day was to create space for people to connect, share what they are seeing on the ground, and identify the issues and opportunities that matter most for Pembrokeshire’s future.
PEMBROKESHIRE EVENT REPORT 2026
Around 200 people from across Pembrokeshire came together at The Queens Hall in Narberth on Tuesday 19th May 2026 for It’s Your Pembrokeshire 2026, a county-wide forum hosted by 4theRegion to explore the future of the county and the practical action needed to strengthen local communities, businesses and places.
The event took place shortly after the election of a new Welsh Government, giving added relevance to discussions about how economic development should work in practice. Across the day, participants called for greater attention to local supply chains, town centre renewal, youth opportunities, community-led action, and better ways for local people and organisations to influence decisions affecting Pembrokeshire.
The forum brought together people from business, community organisations, public services, social enterprises, education, the voluntary sector and local government for a day of presentations, panel discussions, networking and open conversations. It was supported by a wide range of local organisations and partners, including PAVS, PLANED, North Pembrokeshire Trade and Tourism, PACTO, Pembrokeshire College, Grŵp Resilience, Bluestone, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum and Pure West Radio, and sponsored by Redkite Solicitors alongside local businesses and regional initiatives who contributed to the event.
Opening the event, Pembrokeshire County Council Chief Executive Will Bramble welcomed the opportunity for people from across the county to come together, share perspectives and consider how Pembrokeshire can respond to current challenges and future opportunities, including demographic change, the need to strengthen local communities, support town centres and make the most of the county’s economic, social and natural assets.
A key insight from the day was that Pembrokeshire is not short of ideas, commitment or local initiative. The issue raised repeatedly was how to connect this energy more effectively, make local activity more visible, and ensure that community and business voices are heard in the places where priorities, policies and investments are shaped.
We have captured the key perspectives and priorities emerging from the open discussions.
An 8-page summary report of the discussions and the key themes emerging.
The transcript of the speech given by Will Bramble, Chief Executive, PCC
The Pembrokeshire Choose Local Directory
4theRegion’s new printed book for Pembrokeshire was launched at the event. 2000 printed booklets are to be distributed across the county, shining a light on the businesses, organisations and projects that are active and engaged in co-creating a happier, healthier Pembrokeshire, with a thriving economy. Click here to find out more about this brilliant local publication.
Contact 4theRegion for further information and to get involved in our future events. 4theRegion is an independent not-for-profit alliance “co-creating a happier, healthier South West Wales with a thriving economy”. Join us!
by 4theManagement | Apr 17, 2026 | News, Our Events, Past, Reports
EVENTS > ITS YOUR SWANSEA 2026
Around 1,000 people attended It’s Your Swansea 2026, 4theRegion’s annual conference and exhibition for Swansea, held at Swansea Building Society Arena. The event brought together local businesses, community organisations, public sector partners, educators, students, start-ups and residents for a full day of presentations, exhibition stands, networking and open conversations about Swansea’s future.
This year’s theme was Choose Local, with 4theRegion launching the new Choose Local directory for Swansea and encouraging people to connect with local organisations, businesses and community initiatives across the city.
SWANSEA EVENT REPORT 2026
Thursday 12th March 2026
It’s Your Swansea 2026 filled Swansea Building Society Arena with a lively mix of exhibitors, speakers, community groups, businesses, students and local residents, all taking part in one of 4theRegion’s flagship local events.
The event combined a busy exhibition hall with a main stage programme, Start-Up Expo and Open Agenda discussions, creating plenty of opportunities for people to meet, share ideas and find out what is happening across Swansea.
The morning session featured a regeneration update from Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, followed by contributions from My Choice Swansea, Swansea University, Gower College Swansea, Redkite Solicitors, Codi Group, UWTSD, Swansea Bay Foundation and The Swansea Edit.
Throughout the day, attendees visited exhibition stands, joined conversations, and took part in Open Agenda sessions shaped by the topics people in the room wanted to discuss.
The Start-Up Expo added a focused space for people interested in self-employment, side hustles and new business ideas, with local founders sharing their stories and practical workshops on start-up basics, accountancy, marketing and grant applications.
Click below to read the full report, or
Scroll down for photos!
The Swansea Choose Local Directory
4theRegion’s new printed book for Swansea was launched at the event. 2000 printed booklets have been distributed across the county, shining a light on the businesses, organisations and projects that are active and engaged in co-creating a happier, healthier Swansea, with a thriving economy. Click the button to find out more about this brilliant local publication.
IT’S YOUR SWANSEA THROUGH THE YEARS
Contact 4theRegion for further information and to get involved in our future events. 4theRegion is an independent not-for-profit alliance “co-creating a happier, healthier South West Wales with a thriving economy”. Join us!
IT’S YOUR SWANSEA THROUGH THE YEARS
An uplifting new “It’s Your Swansea” song and a slideshow of past events!
by admin | Jan 16, 2026 | News, Our Events
Connect with YOUR city at this major annual event for the people, businesses and organisations of Swansea
Our landmark Swansea conference and exhibition is back at Swansea Building Society Arena on Thursday 12th March 2026 – with some exciting changes! With over 100 exhibitors, a great line-up of local speakers, and interactive discussion groups throughout the day, this unique event is free to attend for everyone with an interest in what’s happening across our county. Whether you represent a company, work in the public sector, run a community group, or simply live in Swansea and want to discover opportunities and make some new connections – be part of it!
Incorporating the Start-Up Expo
This year’s ‘It’s Your Swansea’ will be more exciting than ever, incorporating our popular Start-Up expo alongside the main event. Discover inspiration, support and useful connections in the dedicated Start-Up Lounge, with workshops and speakers throughout the afternoon.
This year, the event will feature an Open Agenda, with 20+ discussion groups that YOU can lead or be part of. It’s a REAL opportunity for meaningful conversations around the five missions which are key to the future wellbeing of our city: Strengthening Local Supply Chains (buying local!); Backing Community Action; Empowering Young People; Creating a Green Economy; and Positive Local Media.
SHARE YOUR VIEWS, NEWS & IDEAS, as we come together around these topics to explore what’s already happening and how we can all collaborate for the greater good of our city and county.
It’s Your Swansea is a fabulous opportunity to meet local businesses, connect with local organisations, find out about the ongoing regeneration of our city, and hear about the opportunities on our doorsteps. From employers recruiting staff, to exciting community projects to get involved in, to small businesses to support – there is something for everyone.
It’s an event not to be missed! Please tell your friends!
Sponsor or Exhibit
We welcome enquiries from organisations that would like to support this event, as a sponsor or as an exhibitor. Gain visibility across the event, from social media shout-outs, to in-person engagement with over 1000 local attendees. We have options to suit big businesses and small community organisations. Please click to find out more:
An Open Agenda
Making space for real conversations, It’s Your Swansea 2026 features the opportunity for YOU to host a break-out discussion on a topic that matters to you.
by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | Our Events
It’s Your Neath Port Talbot 2024
The It’s Your Neath Port Talbot event, hosted by 4theRegion, was an uplifting and energising gathering of people who care deeply about the future of Neath Port Talbot (NPT).
Bringing together around 250 people, including community leaders, local businesses, passionate residents, and representatives of key organisations such as the council and the college, this event showcased the power of collaboration and shared ambition.
It was a space for open dialogue, where everyone’s ideas and perspectives were valued, and where the possibilities for our county could be explored together. The aim of the day was clear: to inspire action, foster connections, and help all of us see the opportunities that exist across NPT – opportunities to grow our businesses, strengthen our communities, and support the wellbeing and prosperity of people in every town and village. While we acknowledged the challenges ahead, from economic uncertainty to infrastructure gaps, the focus was on recognising our strengths and finding practical, forward-thinking ways to overcome barriers.
The discussions at It’s Your Neath Port Talbot reflected a deep commitment to shaping a future that works for everyone. From tackling practical challenges like transport to harnessing the power of heritage, innovation, and grassroots energy, the event proved that when communities, businesses, and organisations come together, the connections, ideas and recommendations that emerge are hugely valuable. The collective vision shared on the day is a powerful foundation for the county’s journey forward.
Catch up on all the conversations you missed, with our full report from the event, The NPT Opportunities Report 2024.
Get involved in the upcoming 2025 event
Wed 24th September at Margam Orangery
It’s Your Neath Port Talbot returns in September 2025, and we are keen to hear from businesses, organisations and local residents who want to be involved! After all – it’s YOUR county!
by admin | Jan 7, 2025 | Our Events
The 4theRegion Start-Up Expo 2025
If you live in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire or Pembrokeshire and are thinking of starting a business or becoming self-employed in 2025, or if you’re already in business and looking for advice, inspiration and connections, the Start-Up Expo is the only place you want to be on Wednesday 5th March 2025! We are bringing together business support organisations from across our region, as well as experts, advisors, funders and consultants, all under one roof for a fantastic day of networking and inspiration, open to everyone with an interest, an idea, or a dream to start (and grow) a business in South West Wales.
Hear inspiring talks from local entrepreneurs about their journey so far;
Attend workshops on a range of vital topics, from working with social media influencers, to managing your accounts.
Find out about funding and support available to your business;
Meet organisations who can help you and advise you for free;
Connect and network with other start-ups and entrepreneurs;
Get inspired, confident and ready to make your business a success!
At 4theRegion we’re co-creating a happier, healthier South West Wales with a thriving economy, and YOUR NEW BUSINESS is part of that vision. Our region needs creative, bold and talented people, like YOU, to setup and grow fantastic businesses in our communities, and that’s why we run this event: bringing together everything you need, under one roof, to empower you to start-up and grow your new business!
This unmissable event takes place in Swansea Arena on Wednesday 5th March. It’s free to attend and open to everyone!
