Local Buying Program suppliers joined BHP Mt Arthur Coal buyers for a Meet the Buyer event on Wednesday, February 19 at the Muswellbrook RSL.
The Meet the Buyer event was similar to a “speed dating” session which allowed local suppliers the opportunity to network with BHP Mt Arthur Coal employees. This session was then followed by a digital marketing workshop for our local registered suppliers.
Muswellbrook based business owner of Double Picc café, Simon Davis addressed attendees, representing 32 local businesses on his experience with using the Local Buying Program.
“Becoming an approved Supplier was a simple task and it is well worth the short amount of time it took to register,” he said.
“Coming from a mining background, I had a lot to learn and being a part of the Local Buying Program was easy and a contributing to our early success.”
Mt Arthur Coal general manager, Adam Lancey expressed his support of the Local Buying Program as well.
“Engaging local and indigenous suppliers in the communities where we operate not only ensures the economic benefits of our operations and shared with our communities, but simply makes good business sense,” he said.
“There is no denying that a thriving small business community is essential for a healthy local economy.”
“Small businesses can offer one of a kind products and services, have the flexibility to respond to requests on short notice and can offer a one on one reliable service; all while keeping money filtering through the community.”
C-Res Director, Melissa Westcott, who is a small business owner and Facebook extraordinaire, gave our Local Buying Program suppliers some excellent advice and insight into digital marketing for small businesses. Melissa is one of only seven people in Australia who is trained in delivering this training for Facebook.