AN event aimed at helping firms through tough times is taking place on Thursday.

Guest speakers from HMV, The Co-operative and retail Week will be discussing the challenges facing retailers.

Steve West, from HMV, said: “There are not many businesses in the UK that are immune from the impact of the economy, which is, at best, stagnant.

Brands including Asda, Barclays, Debenhams, M&S, McDonalds, Punch Taverns and United Utilities, will be attending the event which will focus on leadership development.

The event will take place at CEL, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, on Thursday, February 23, with breakfast at 8am followed by the event from 8.30am to 11.30am.

For more information call 0161 275 7974.