The conversation at IFB has been more political than usual this year, as the biggest business festival of its kind found itself at the centre of the EU referendum result, the greatest shock to UK business for decades.
However, even in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit announcement, the businesses, delegates and visitors to Liverpool continued to promote the innovative projects currently making waves in the North West and the rest of the world. With an in-depth focus on smart technology, Liverpool rose to the occasion with dynamic new plans for sensor cities, advanced manufacturing and improved connectivity.
Guest speakers injected new life into the 2016 programme, sharing insight and expertise with those in attendance, as we all look ahead to a period of significant change. Although the public dialogue continues to focus on the impending EU negotiations, there remains significant interest in the future of Liverpool and Manchester devolution plans, with talks of a connected North still as high on the agenda as ever.
Following recent comments from George Osborne that the Northern Powerhouse remains a clear priority in policymaking, the North West business community understands the integral role it now plays in elevating British business within the global network.
Liverpool's road, rail and water connections continue to present the ideal foundation for building this powerhouse, with plans for Liverpool2 continuing to attract interest and investment the world over. The hard work of the delegates and all involved at the festival this year has provided the optimism and energy to support these developments, as IFB participants took advantage of the spotlight on the regions to promote Liverpool business.
The International Festival for Business continues to serve as a valuable platform with which we can showcase Liverpool and the North West's distinctive assets and ambitions. It is by continuing to position Liverpool as not only a stronghold of the Northern Powerhouse, but as a unique waterfront business offer, that we can sustain the positivity from this year's event and drive global engagement for the foreseeable future.
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