Member Article

81% of Manchester SMEs export according to FedEx research

81% of Manchester-based SMEs export according to research undertaken by FedEx Express.

It also found out that 73% of Liverpool SMEs export.

The exporting market is worth £46k per month in Manchester and £52k per month for Liverpool SMEs.

The research also revealed reasons for picking the first markets to enter and the key benefits of exporting.

Reasons for picking first market to enter:

• 51% Sharing a common language
• 38% least complicated market to enter
• 28% Largest untapped market to enter
• 25% Links with family / ancestry
• 24% Witnessed other businesses succeeding there

Key Benefits of exporting:

• 63% Improved our financial performance
• 40% Helped us to employ more people
• 37% Encouraged us to develop new products and services
• 26% Helped us to compete with larger businesses
• 23% Provided new opportunities for talented staff
• 17% Improved staff retention levels
• 11% Enabled us to open new premises / operations overseas

Vice president Northern Europe operations, FedEx Express, Trevor Hoyle said: “The study has produced some fascinating findings, revealing a number of regional cities that are noticeably bucking the trend when it comes to global connectivity.

“Through critical assessment of perceived image, reputation and geographical location of 26 cities across the UK, the study serves to paint a more vivid picture of the regional factors that come into play when trading overseas.

“With the influence and impact of “Brand Britain” our report aims to ensure British SMEs are given the best possible platform and support to succeed, helping to drive our economy forward.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .