Welsh Steel Sector Research

AimAn independent commercial view of the Welsh steel sector would help both stakeholders and Welsh Government officials better understand the capability and capacity of the sector in Wales. The aim of this work is to provide Welsh Government with a deeper understanding of the steel sector in the form of an evidence-based report that will serve to inform public sector policy decisions and provide current economic impacts data on the steel sector in Wales. The report will establish a baseline and in doing so must:- detail the make-up of the Welsh steel industry currently, including upstream as well as downstream supply chains (with specific details of those based within Wales). Where possible, the report will need to provide evidence on employment, output and trade figures within both the direct Welsh steel industry, as well as within the wider supply chains.- identify the opportunities and threats faced by the sector. This includes challenges and opportunities around meeting decarbonisation targets and international trade. Robust trade data based on HS commodity codes should be used to support the findings whenever possible.ObjectivesWelsh Government requires the research to:-- review the current evidence base around the steel sector in Wales;- map the steel sector in Wales, including supply chains and where possible quantify its contribution to Wales’ economy;- establish key opportunities, strengths and risks facing the sector and consider whether these are unique to Wales as opposed to the wider UK.Content should include an overview of key points and published material around the steel sector in Wales (and the wider UK) to set the context. The research is anticipated to consist of three broad sections, however we’d welcome proposals on this and how the aims of each section could be best achieved.1. Desk-based research to review and provide critical assessment of available evidence base around steel sector in Wales (and the wider UK) and highlighting any gaps.2. All available quantitative and qualitative sources should be considered including commercial databases such as FAME and others to map the steel sector in Wales, including supply chains. Where possible, the sector’s contribution to Wales’ economy through employment, GVA, trade should be quantified and explored beyond publicly available information. This may include, but not limited to, indirect and induced employment/output. Alongside this quantitative analysis the contractor should engage with professional bodies and businesses to gain insight into their members in Wales.3. Consider external factors that impact on the sector, with a specific focus on international trade and decarbonisation and how the situation has evolved over time. Identify threats and opportunities related to these issues and whether there are any specific aspects of the steel sector that make steel companies with a Welsh location or headquartered here unique compared to those located in other parts of the UK.A thematic analysis of the findings should be detailed, making clear the findings based on evidence from research participants and be distinct from any author opinion and analysis. More detailed discussions on the proposed industry engagement plan; engagement methods and tools; and number of engagements will be conducted during the inception meeting.Notes: The successful bidder will be familiar with sources of UK and Wales economic statistics including HMRC and ONS data. They’ll also have a good understanding of any commercial databases that could be used to quantify the contribution of the steel sector in Wales.- The successful contractor will also be able to consult with Welsh Government policy officials and analysts to support this research.- It will be beneficial to make links with other UK agencies and bodies to consider what published material is available to support the development of this work, and to consider prior investigations examining the steel sector in Wales.OutputsThe Welsh Government requires an independent and comprehensive report detailing the steel industry in Wales.Inception report – To include details of the work plan, Gantt chart, risk register, with minutes of the inception meetingMid-project briefing document – context-setting overview of desk-based research and literature review on the Welsh steel sector and an update on mapping the sector within Wales, including on outlining next steps regarding industry engagement. This should be completed and agreed before the stakeholder aspects of the work commences.Final report – provided in English will include as a minimum:- An executive summary;- Detailed sections based on the Aims and Objectives above;- Charts/tables/infographics where they aid understanding of the data;- The collected data is to be provided in an Excel file;- An outline of recommendations/next steps for policy makers to consider.Summary Report – In addition to the final report, a stand-alone Summary Report that will be provided in English and Welsh for publication.- Any associated datasets/data documentation suppliedNOTE: To register your interest in this notice and obtain any additional information please visit the Sell2Wales Web Site at https://www.sell2wales.gov.wales/Search/Search_Switch.aspx?ID=127405.