A NEW project to help small firms work better has been launched.

Major employers including Lucas Rists and British Aerospace have joined forces with Nelson and Colne College for the launch of the Supply Chain Pathfinder.

Backed by funds from Pendle Partnership's Single Regeneration Budget and Europe, the initiative aims to help firms take advantage of the latest management techniques to improve efficiency, productivity and profits.

The Supply Chain Pathfinder programme is now being offered to firms throughout Pendle

"The key to achieving benefits such as improved efficiency and profitability is good management training but for small companies that has always been easier said than done." said Tony Mountain of Nelson and Colne College's management unit.

"The Supply Chain Pathfinder programme can help managers in small firms improve the success of their companies by allowing them to use the wealth of knowledge available to get first-class service from their suppliers and in turn meet the quality standards of those larger organisations they deal with."

Steve Marsden, managing director of Nelson-based Marsden Engineering, believes the initiative will prove helpful.

"It enables companies such as ours to gain practical knowledge and proficiency in specific management skills - something which there is great demand for among small businesses which are trying to grow."

Further details are available from Tony Mountain on 01282 615665.

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