Member Article

NECC and UKTI urge North East businesses to export

The North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) and UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) welcomed North East business people to the Stadium of Light this week to discuss boosting their businesses through international trade.

At the region’s first International Trade Lunch, the NECC urged businesses to maximise their potential and consider exporting to a worldwide market.

Nicola Bolton, UKTI managing director of Trade, said: “Exporting is vital to the UK economy. Medium-sized businesses play a vital role in creating jobs, boosting skills and helping to reduce the trade deficit.”

Nicola explained UKTI is targeting inward investment, supporting UK businesses to build capacity and begin exporting. By increasing manufacturing and keeping the supply chain local, it is hoped that businesses will no longer be so reliant on overseas suppliers.

A company who has had significant success since expanding their trade outside the UK is RIBA Enterprises, the Knowledge Management business of the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Chief executive, Richard Waterhouse spoke of why it was time for international development, he said: “Business has become global,”

“With global standardisation there is huge opportunity for international growth, but businesses often wonder where to go first.

“There is a lot to think about: ease of entry into a particular country; size of potential market; and whether or not there will be a good relationship fit. My advice to those thinking about expanding their business and exporting is - don’t do it alone. Get all the support you can, but have fun. It’s an exciting ride.”

James Ramsbotham, NECC chief executive said: “The North East has a great reputation for export, ahead of any other region in the UK. As the region’s largest membership organisation we want to help our members build upon this impressive record.

“Working alongside UKTI we aim to help our members’ grow their businesses by offering support and advice, and providing networking opportunities with organisations who have successfully exported internationally. The government has challenged the UK to double our export levels. We’ve done it once, why not do it again?

“Exporting to a new market can be a daunting prospect but there is advice and help available. We’re looking forward to working with North East businesses, helping them become more innovative, profitable and increasing their level of growth.”

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