Supply chain conference: Delivering the next generation of water infrastructure for Wales

Introduction and background

Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water (“DCWW”) is delivering a significant infrastructure transformation programme, with over £4 billion of investment planned between 2025 and 2030.

To help maximise supply-chain opportunities, DCWW is hosting the Supply chain conference: “Delivering the next generation of water infrastructure for Wales” on 10 November 2026 at the International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales), Coldra Woods, Newport, NP18 1DE.

The event will bring together potential suppliers, current delivery partners and businesses from across the wider supply chain to explore how they can contribute to this programme of major delivery.

The event is intended for organisations of all sizes, including existing and prospective suppliers, growing businesses, specialist contractors, Welsh businesses, SMEs, investors, lenders and other interested organisations. This event is an opportunity to be part of DCWW’s landmark investment plans that will help modernise essential infrastructure, support economic growth and create a stronger, more prosperous future for Wales.

Purpose of the event

The event aims to

• Understand the opportunities: Hear about DCWW's investment programme, forthcoming supply-chain opportunities and the vision for Wales.
• Understand what DCWW needs: Learn about the skills, goods and services required to work with DCWW.
• Prepare to participate: Understand how organisations can position themselves to participate in future opportunities.
• Understand delivery expectations: Hear about the duties and considerations that support successful and inclusive projects across Wales, including Welsh language requirements and the well-being of future generations.
• Connect and collaborate: Engage with DCWW, existing and prospective delivery partners and other organisations to explore potential supply-chain relationships and collaboration.

The event will also include updates on DCWW’s £600m Direct Procurement for Customers (“DPC”) Cwm Taf Water Supply Strategy (“Cwm Taf WSS”) scheme. Preliminary market engagement for Cwm Taf WSS (Procurement Identifier: ocds-h6vhtk-06d32b) has been undertaken and continues ahead of the formal procurement process currently envisaged to launch in Q1 2027. A separate Preliminary Market Engagement Notice has been published and updated for the Cwm Taf WSS scheme. The conference will also provide networking opportunities for organisations interested in Cwm Taf WSS, including prospective delivery partners, supply-chain SMEs, investors and lenders.

Event format

The proposed event programme comprises four elements, A-D below. The final programme and arrangements will be confirmed ahead of the event and made available via the Business Wales event webpage.

• Plenary session

The plenary is expected to feature presentations covering

• DCWW's future outlook and investment programme,
• Update from Welsh Government on investment in Wales,
• Procurement and supply-chain opportunities.
• Programme and project updates, including the Cwm Taf WSS scheme, and
• Sustainability and future generations considerations.
• Meet DCWW & Framework Suppliers

The area will provide a forum for organisations to introduce their capabilities, ask questions and explore opportunities to work with DCWW.

Representatives from DCWW’s supply-chain-facing functions will be available on a drop-in basis to discuss operational requirements, priorities and potential supply-chain opportunities.

Framework Suppliers

A selection of DCWW's existing framework suppliers will host exhibition stands, providing opportunities for potential suppliers to learn about their activities, discuss capabilities and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

The list of participating existing DCWW framework suppliers, along with a list of attending organisations, will be shared with registered organisations ahead of the event via their registration email addresses.

• Innovation and Ideas Area

Attending organisati