BURY businesses and those elsewhere in the region are being urged to safeguard their competitive edge by realising the implications and opportunities of euro trading.

That is the plea from the North West Euro Forum, a partnership of business representative bodies from across the region with the Government Office for the North West.

The forum has been looking at the practical implications to business of the introduction of the single currency for a number of years.

Martin Morgan, chairman of the North West Euro Forum and international business manager for Lloyds TSB in Manchester, said: "The introduction of notes and coins is the tangible demonstration that the euro is here to stay. "It marks a new chapter of business opportunities for companies in the North West, and ignoring its implications is no longer an option.

"There are still many companies who have made little or no preparation for dealing in the new currency.

"Most of these companies feel that the issue will not affect them, but in business, it is risky to say never. Out of the blue, you may be faced with an important new customer demanding invoicing in euros and if you can't deliver, you can bet there will be plenty of companies that can."

The North West Euro Forum's website, www.eurohelp.org.uk, offers local businesses impartial information on the practical implications of handling the euro.

And the site also offers a selection of useful contacts that will help organisations to make the change efficiently.

Mr Morgan said: "It is still not too late to seize the opportunities presented by being able to deal in the euro.

"The initial steps are generally simple, cost effective and keep business disruption to a minimum.

"The forum's website is a good place to get the contacts and information needed to make the necessary preparations.

"I urge every business to review their position and make sure they can take advantage of this new way of transacting business."

For detailed information, call the forum's help desk, on 0151 288 5137.