Moray businesses are being invited to a local event to see for themselves how the new economic vision for the area is being implemented.

The seminar, on August 10 2006, is being organised by SCDI (Scottish Council for Development and Industry) and hosted by Johnstons of Elgin at their Newmill premises.  It will focus on progress of the Moray 2020 economic strategy which was published last year by HIE Moray.

Moray 2020 which was produced in light of announcements about reductions in the local RAF workforce analysed the economic strengths and weaknesses of the area.  It set up an economic vision for the year 2020 and drew up a series of action plans required to achieve it.

These included the need to invest in and transform the transport and business accommodation infrastructure; to improve regional marketing; and encourage greater inward investment. Opportunities to increase the number of knowledge-based businesses and ways of effectively retaining and attracting young talent were also highlighted.

Hervey Gibson, an independent economist and managing director of international strategy and economics consultancy Cogentsi will be the guest speaker at the evening event. Mr Gibson who helped prepare the Moray 2020 strategy will outline the wider vision for Moray and also assess progress over the first six-month implementation period.

Chief executive of HIE Moray James Gibbs said: "The Moray area faces significant challenges and opportunities in the next 15 years and if we are to realise our ambitious vision for our economy, we will need the fullest possible participation of both the public and private sectors. I hope as many people can come along to this event as possible."

SCDI North East manager Ian Armstrong said:  "A strong, vibrant economy in Moray is a vision that business shares with HIE. This event gives local companies the opportunity to join forces with the public sector in implementing the new economic strategy and help to remove any barriers to their growth."

The event is a 7pm for 7.15pm start at Johnstons of Elgin, Newmill, Elgin. There will be an opportunity for questions and answers after the event and a light buffet will be served.

To book a place please contact:

Fiona Downie
SCDI
c/o ConocoPhilips (UK) Limited
Rubislaw House
Anderson Drive
Aberdeen AB15 6FZ

Tel: 01224 205868