Reasons for international expansion

The art of connecting global business

80% believe that international expansion is highly essential for the success of their organisation

60% stated that the quality of digital and communications infrastructure was a factor in a decision to expand

52% of business decision makers stated that reliablecommunications amongst all branches/territories is essential to successfully run a global organisation

62% highlighted the quality of IT infrastructure and services as a reason to expand

75% said that growth opportunities are the main reason prompting them to look to expand overseas

Barriers to expansion

of respondents identified a lack of finances as hindering their expansion.

2%

of organisations are restricted from international expansion by the limitations of their own technology.

37%

stated that the digital infrastructures in their target market had in some way blocked any plans for expansion.

94%

The effect of a digital first economy

Desirability of markets

9191% of businesses stated that ifa country is “digital-first” *economy then this is a “great help” when expandinginto it.

* “Digital-first” economies have a ubiquitous, nationwide, high speed internet connection.

About The art of connecting global businessBT’s international report, “The art of connecting global business”, surveyed 1150 business decision makers based in 13 regions around the globe. It explores the reasons for international expansion, which markets are desirable and why, the effects of being a ‘digital first’ economy and barriers to expansion. The survey, carried out by international market research agency Vanson Bourne on BT‘s behalf, interviewed companies with over 100 staff in the process of, or considering, international expansion. They are based in: UK, Benelux, France, Germany, South Africa, Spain, UAE, Brazil, China, Hong Kong, India, Singapore and USA. The art of connecting global business is being launched to mark the opening of the International Festival of Business, one of the biggest business events of 2014, of which BT is an official partner. It can be downloaded from www.bt.com/ifb-research-2014

The UK is the most desirable country in Europe, and second in the world, for companies looking to expand their business overseas.

USA 33% UK 30% China 29%

Hong Kong 27% Germany 26%