Arvinder Birdi – engaging the supply chain at UK Infrastructure Show

UK Construction Online, the official media partner of the UK Infrastructure Show, recently spoke to Arvinder Bird, Partner at Gardiner and Theobald LLP and keynote speaker at the show, about her hopes for the upcoming UKIS 2023 event and her thoughts on the current state of the industry.

How important are events like UKIS in terms of engaging SMEs and the supply chain?

Bringing together the infrastructure sector at events such as UKIS is invaluable as it enables organisations to engage with SMEs championing new and emerging innovations. Working closely with the supply chain across all our projects we recognise the vital role SMEs play in infrastructure projects.

What kind of support for infrastructure are you hoping to see from central and local government in the near future?

Future investment in the sector is needed more than ever. Spending on infrastructure supports economic stimulation that not only generates jobs, business growth and economic regeneration but also leaves a legacy for future generations.

What do you see as being the biggest challenge for UK infrastructure over the next 12 months?

With global inflation, high levels of demand and increasing interest rates, lower affordability is driving a greater focus towards the benefits of capital investment being realised. However, with challenges come new opportunities and as the sector adapts to the ever-changing landscape, we’ll rely increasingly on supply chain collaboration to continue to deliver infrastructure programmes which offer social, economic and environmental value.

What are Gardiner & Theobald’s main ambitions for the year ahead?

Working strategically with our clients we’ll continue to ensure that benefits-led major infrastructure projects are fit for the future. Through our extensive experience on some of the most notable infrastructure projects and our data-led approach, we’ll provide bespoke solutions for our clients’ commercial needs. We also look forward to further industry collaboration, ensuring key topics such as net zero carbon, the growth of smart tech and the importance of inclusivity are at the heart of new developments.

What are you most looking forward to at UKIS?

G&T is looking forward to connecting with our supply chain partners and clients whilst discussing the future of infrastructure. We look forward to hearing new perspectives from our peers, as well as sharing insights into key opportunities for the sector. Lastly, it is great to have the opportunity to meet with future new partners and build long-lasting relationships.