Business leaders discuss potential impact of Liverpool’s IFB2016

Members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Trade & Investment met this week to discuss the role that Liverpool’s upcoming International Festival for Business 2016 will play in showcasing British industry to a global audience.

The reception, held in Westminster, looked at how IFB2016 will boost exports for UK businesses, stimulate inward investment and unlock economic growth.

During the event, festival representatives addressed an audience composed of 100 business leaders and government officials, with more than 30 nations represented.

Paul Lindley, the founder baby food manufacturer Ella’s Kitchen, is an ambassador of the festival. Speaking at the meeting, he said: “For businesses today, Brand Britain is one of the most valuable trading assets.

“With the help of UKTI, we can be bold about exporting and entering new markets where British brands are viewed at a premium.”

He continued: “It is great to see such strong government support for businesses looking to expand internationally – IFB2016 is just one example of this and highlights our strength as a great trading nation.”

According to IFB2016’s director, Ian McCarthy, last year’s event generated £200m in inward investment and led to the creation of more than 7,000 jobs, in addition to giving businesses access to new markets.

He commented: “IFB is about showing off the best of British and letting the world know that the UK is the home of international business.”

This year’s festival, he added, will be “even more ambitious”.

Set to be held at Liverpool’s Exhibition Centre, IFB2016 will focus on the manufacturing, creative and digital, and energy and environment sectors.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →