SKILLS and entrepreneurship are two winning characteristics that have historically given the UK a competitive edge in overseas markets.
Many North East companies already boast these traits and are successfully competing in markets around the globe. And this month UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is hosting International Trade Week to give companies a chance to hone their export skills further to help them develop and grow.
UKTI has teamed up with HSBC and key partners and business organisations in the region including the Energy Industries Council (EIC), Business Clubs North East (BCNE), Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and Lloyds TSB to put together a packed programme of events.
International Trade Week (January 31 to February 4) will feature events at venues across the region and will offer something for businesses of all sizes, whatever their sector, whether new to exporting or experienced international trade entrepreneurs.
UKTI’s International Trade Advisers will be hosting several “Meet your ITA” events during the week, giving companies a chance to talk to their local ITA about the support they can offer.
Other events will include an Advanced Export Seminar for those companies that are more experienced exporters to enable them to work with an experienced facilitator and fellow exporters to generate new approaches and ideas and take their business to the next level.
These are just some of the highlights of the week that promises to be an exciting opportunity for us to celebrate our export achievements as a region and to build on our international success.
Recent figures have once again shown that North East exports are continuing to grow and with the annual rolling total value of goods exported from the region at £11.26bn, we have now regained the great majority of the export value lost since the economic downturn began.
This is obviously good news but we need to continue that upward trend and it is through initiatives such as International Trade Week and UKTI’s new and improved services that we aim to help more companies win new business in more overseas markets.
If you’ve never thought about exporting before or have never worked with UKTI, now is the time to take the plunge. International Trade Week boasts events covering a wide range of topics that will be held every day, at different times and venues – so there’s bound to be one that’s just right for you.
For more information about International Trade Week and the wide range of services available through UK Trade & Investment contact the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054, email enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk or log onto the website: www.ukti.gov.uk . You can also follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/UKTINorthEast
:: David Coppock is international trade director, UK Trade & Investment (North East)
