Kent County Council (KCC) held a sellout conference to support local businesses to work to supply services which benefit residents.

The Supplier Day was held on Tuesday 27^th January at Detling Showground, near Maidstone, and it was the first opportunity experts had to present the KCC’s new Commercial Strategy 2026-2028 to leaders of businesses operating in the county.

The plan maps out how the council plans to use the £1.47bn of third-party contracts. Covering everything from social care services for vulnerable people to managing potholes on Kent’s roads, the strategy aims to get the best value for Kent council taxpayers from every pound spent.

Opened by KCC’s Leader, Linden Kemkaran, the main stage sessions included the importance of having Kent suppliers, a look behind the curtain at how doing business with KCC works and an introduction to the Procurement Act.

There were also focused breakout sessions so sectors could meet the buyers, understand how to build efficiency and resilience into contracts and understanding the benefit of having social value and supporting new talent in the business world.

KCC’s Leader, Linden Kemkaran, said: “With more than 700 tickets booked and more than 300 businesses represented, our Supplier Day brought together a wide range of organisations to hear how they can help get the best value out of every pound we spend delivering for the people of Kent.

“From caring for our most vulnerable residents to making sure we have the materials we need to keep Kent’s roads moving, our Commercial Strategy has it all covered with an approach will mean communities see real results.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to making the day such a positive and impactful event.”

Throughout the day, businesses were able to connect, network, and build relationships with one another and with the council, strengthening partnerships and supporting our shared commitment to delivering the best outcomes for Kent’s communities.

Source & picture credit: Kent County Council