THE cream of Yorkshire's design talent is to meet major businesses from the region in Barcelona.

A new pilot initiative by Yorkshire Forward aims to encourage businesses in the area to keep their design contracts within Yorkshire's borders.

Yorkshire and Humber's design industries employ 8,500 people and generate £300 million for the region's economy. But many of the area's large companies source their design outside the region.

Susan Johnson Executive Director of Business from Yorkshire Forward said: "We have a rich wealth of design talent in Yorkshire and Humber that competes on a national and international basis. This initiative will highlight the strengths of our region's design houses to its largest companies and help to retain some of the work these companies currently outsource.

"We have chosen Barcelona as a venue because of its strong design heritage that will challenge and inspire delegates to think outside of the box."

The trip will take place between April 22 and 24.

Companies attending include vehicle tracking firm Minorplanet, high street shoe retailer Stylo Barratt Ltd and computer retailer ICM.

Anyone wanting to get involved should phone Robert Ling on 0113 3949793 or email robert.ling@yorkshire-forward.com

Updated: 11:11 Tuesday, March 30, 2004