WELCOME to your new look free 16-page Jobs&Business supplement, which brings you the latest business news, in-depth features and comment.

Not only has it been given a makeover, we have also launched a regular section to celebrate small firms, start-ups and entrepreneurs.

Small traders are vital to the economy, accounting for 99 in every 100 businesses and keeping more than 14 million people in work across the UK.

If you run a small business then please get in touch to tell us about the issues that are affecting you – from access to finance to late payments – as well as your plans for growth.

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For the latest breaking stories and an archive of business features, visit thenorthernecho.co.uk/business/ MONDAY might prove to have been a landmark day for the future of air travel in our region.

The aviation minister, Robert Goodwill, visited Newcastle International to mark the start of work on a new business park, which could lead to the creation of 7,000 jobs.

The airport estimates the development could boost the local economy by £300m.

It is hoped that the park will attract new employers and investment, and reinforce the airport’s bid to attract new flights – including a prized transatlantic route.

In support of Durham Tees Valley Airport, The Northern Echo has been running a Keep The Region Flying Campaign. But it is vital that both airports survive and have a long-term vision for success.

Newcastle International’s visionary scheme is important for the whole region and it deserves our support.

JUST under a year ago it looked as though Whessoe Engineering was about to become the latest name to enter the where are they now? list.

Few companies can compete with Whessoe’s heritage.

It dates from William Kitching’s ironmonger’s shop, which opened in Darlington in 1790, and went on to become a driving force behind the industrial revolution.

Whessoe stopped being a maker of things 25 years ago. The manufacturer became a designer of gas storage facilities, employing a few hundred office staff.

It is this niche operation which has enabled the Whessoe name to survive.

The firm nearly went under last year before the engineering wing of Korea’s Samsung took control.

Let’s hope that the combination of Samsung’s global reach and Whessoe’s reputation proves to be a recipe for lasting success.

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