Export aid wins new award
UK Trade & Investment has been proclaimed the best trade promotion agency in the developed world at the International Trade Centre’s Trade Promotion Organisation Network Awards 2010 in Mexico.
And its Gateway to Global Growth (G3) programme was cited as the reason for its nomination.
The awards recognise excellence in developing export initiatives and G3 has proved a popular means of support for companies across the UK and here in the North East where 116 companies from across the region have signed up to the initiative since it’s launch last year.
G3 is aimed at SMEs that already have some experience of exporting and offers a 12-month package of tailored strategic support to help companies grow overseas.
One of our dedicated team of international trade advisers will work with the company to conduct an international business review and help develop a strategic action plan. We will support the company as it implements its plan over 12 months, utilising all of the services appropriate to its needs.
We’re delighted G3 has proved such a success and has helped UKTI clinch such a prestigious award but it is just one of a range of support services that we offer and we’re keen to encourage more companies to take advantage of overseas markets.
Although international trade plays a key role in the region’s economy, the number of companies involved in exporting is still relatively small. We want to see more companies take up the export challenge, widen the range of products and services exported and broaden the number of markets we do business with.
There is no doubt the economic downturn has had a significant impact on the North East economy, but despite a fall in exports at the end of last year, the region’s international trade performance is still one of the few bright spots and it’s more important than ever for companies to continue to look at new markets.
UK Trade & Investment can help companies find the markets that can make the difference. Nationally, over the past 12 months UKTI helped around 25,000 businesses – 90 per cent of them SMEs – to generate £5bn for the economy. For every £1 spent by UKTI, £19 is generated for the economy.
International trade continues to be a key element of the region’s economic success and it’s been proven time and again that companies that export are more resilient. We aim to ensure that businesses have all the knowledge, skills and support they need to succeed and be there to help every step of the way.
For information about G3 and the services available through UK Trade & Investment and how to enter the North East Exporters Awards, contact the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 050 5054, email enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk or log on to the website www.ukti.gov.uk
:: David Coppock is international trade director, UK Trade & Investment (North East)
