The event was the first stage in this process and opens dialogue with potential partners from across the business spectrum. The aim was to set out broad timescales for the delivery of the Village, and provide a general overview of its shape and content. It is hoped that this event provided the context for companies to share their thoughts and ideas on the procurement of this prestigious project.

This was very much an introductory session - not the beginning of the formal procurement process - for a spectrum of local businesses, from banks to building firms, where they learned what will be needed to ensure they make the best possible bid for contracts.

The event was hosted by Councillor Archie Graham, Executive Member for Commonwealth Games Delivery and Councillor George Ryan Executive Member for Development and Regeneration at Glasgow City Council. Steve Inch, the Council’s Executive Director of Development and Regeneration Services, made a presentation explaining what should be included within the Athletes’ Village and explaining the timetable for its delivery.

Councillor Archie Graham, Executive Member for Commonwealth Games delivery at Glasgow City Council, said: "The Commonwealth Games will provide tremendous opportunities for local firms and local people, and these seminars will have helped these firms to make preparations for bidding for work as Glasgow gets ready for 2014. The Games may be six years away, but work will begin fairly soon, and it is important that the city's firms gain as much information as possible to allow them to make the best bid they can."

Councillor George Ryan, Executive Member for Development and Regeneration at Glasgow City Council, said: "The delivery of a successful Games in 2014 will require a whole range of skills and services, from construction and design to sourcing of sustainable materials and waste management, and many opportunities will be available for local businesses, creating huge economic benefit for Glasgow and Scotland."