Champions of export celebrated

Aug 26 2010 by David Coppock, The Journal

THE North East’s export champions were honoured last month at a gala dinner at the Gateshead Hilton where the winners of the North East Exporters’ Awards 2010 were unveiled.

The awards, which have been running for 15 years, are sponsored by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), One North East, North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC), the Regional Language Network and HSBC, and recognise the efforts of individuals who have helped the region maintain a strong performance in international trade.

This year’s winners were: New Exporter Award – Kevin Harkin, of Smith Electric Vehicles;

Export Achievement Award – Stephen Treharne, of Prestige Seating; Innovation in Export Award – Albert Pattison, of Hart Biologicals; Export Communicator Award – Dave Ranson, of Global Manufacturing Supplies and Passport to Export Award – Michelle Taylor, of Tallulah Love.

Every one of them has shown real inspiration, innovation, motivation and dedication in their efforts to secure new business for their companies.

With the economic downturn, there are now signs around the world that growth is picking up and North East firms can benefit through trading overseas.

We know there are more individuals and companies who are playing their part in the region’s economic success and we hope the success of our winners will encourage others to follow.

We offer services that can be tailor-made to suit a company’s individual needs ranging from Passport to Export and the Gateway to Global Growth (G3) initiatives to our Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS).

In September we will be holding events and workshops to help both novice and experienced exporters, as well as for companies already signed up to UKTI programmes.

For information, call the hotline on 0845 0505 054, or email: enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk

:: David Coppock is UKTI international trade director