Member Article

GLE preferred bidder as UKTI export support provider in London and South East

The Government is expected to sign new five-year contracts with locally based providers to deliver export support to businesses, Trade Minister Lord Livingston announced today.

The preferred bidders have been chosen by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and the length of contracts will give businesses consistency and underline the Government’s long term commitment to increase the number of companies that export.

GLE, a not for profit Enterprise Agency has been appointed to provide export advice for SMEs in London and the South East.

All the providers will be locally based, helping companies start exporting or increase their overseas business by finding customers in new markets, taking part in trade shows and exporting online around the world.

The lengths of the contracts also mean that English companies will be eligible to bid for up to £100 million in additional export support through the European Structural & Investment Funds.

Trade Minister Lord Livingston said: “I am delighted that we can commit to long term contracts and provide the support that businesses need to break into new markets creating jobs and growth for their region.

“UKTI will be working with locally based organisations, including social enterprises and Chambers of Commerce, to ensure that public money is targeted at where it is most needed and spent responsibly.”

Welcoming today’s announcement Alan Pain, UKTI’s newly appointed Regional Director for the East of England said: “I am pleased to welcome the opportunity to continue to work with Exemplas Trade Services Ltd in the region.

“Together we look forward to helping companies to start exporting and to grow their overseas business through the expert advice, support and opportunities that UKTI provides.

“Over the last year alone support has been given to 3355 businesses throughout the East of England and many more will now benefit from today’s announcement.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .