Focus internationally to beat the downturn

Mar 31 2009 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

TEES Valley firms are being urged to think global in a bid to strengthen their business and beat the recession.

And UK Trade and Investment, the Government organisation that supports companies in the UK doing business internationally, is offering a helping hand to firms looking to tap into overseas markets.

As a region, the North East has enjoyed steady growth in its export performance.

Latest figures showed a fall in the last quarter of 2008, but figures for the year overall were more than 17% higher than in 2007 with £11.2bn worth of goods exported around the globe.

UKTI says Tees Valley companies have played an important part in that success, but while many have already switched on to the benefits of international trade others have yet to realise what they are missing out on.

Simon Crosby, head of team for UKTI’s international trade advisers in the Tees Valley area, said: “The area has long been - and still is - a world leader in the chemical and pharmaceutical sector, which is a key contributor to the region’s international trade success.

“But while these remain important industry sectors, the Tees Valley is increasingly diversifying its industrial base and our reputation is growing in several new areas including ICT and digital technology.

“Tees Valley companies have a lot to offer and we’re here to help them every step of the way - whatever the size of the company, whether they are a novice or experienced exporter and whatever their product or service, we want to help them make the most of the opportunities available in overseas markets.”

UKTI has a team of international trade advisers who work with companies to develop and implement a realistic and achievable export plan.

They can then help companies access the wide range of support services.

“Each business and each market is unique,” added Mr Crosby, “and our aim is to provide companies with the right advice and support to help them succeed as they make their first tentative steps into a new market.

“Through OMIS - the Overseas Market Introduction Service - a company can be put directly in touch with our staff in more than 200 countries, each with the expert knowledge needed to help draw up a programme to ensure success.

“Obviously, it makes sense to find out as much as you can about a new market before embarking on any export plan, as mistakes could be costly and with the exchange rate at its current level, UK goods are even more attractive for overseas customers.”

UKTI also organises a programme of market visits, giving companies the chance to explore a market.

“Research has shown that companies involved in overseas trade were on average larger, more productive, pay higher wages and use more capital-intensive production methods than non-exporting rivals,” he added.

“Through international trade, companies can increase turnover and profitability, utilise spare capacity and spread business risk.”

For help with exporting, contact UKTI’s hotline on 0845 05 05 054.