FIRMS from across East Lancashire are set to take part in the biggest business debate ever.

Northern Technologies in Nelson is one of more than 50 venues hosting the '2010: A Business Odyssey.'

The lecture has been produced by the Department of Trade and Industry to explore issues of interest to business over the next decade.

Speakers taking part in the event, which will be linked via satellite, include environmental guru Jonathon Porritt, Tim Waterstone and Niall Fitzgerald, chairman of Unilever.

"These speakers will give us an overview of how the information age, new industries, global markets and the trend towards ethical and environmental accountability will dominate the business agenda in 2010," said Chris Greenhalgh, operational director, technical services.

"It is fair to say that they and the companies they represent are the drivers behind these issues s the scene they set will be of relevance and importance to East Lancashire companies.

"These are global issues which local companies will need to understand and deal with if they are to remain competitive in world markets."

. Delegates will have a chance to quiz the speakers via the live satellite link.

"These issues affect companies of every type and size."

Further details on taking part are available from Chris Greenhalgh on 01282 695186.

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