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THINKING ABOUT TRADING INTERNATIONALLY?
Despite the recession – or maybe
because of it – many small businesses
are setting their sights on international
markets and experiencing healthy
growth as a result. Exporting offers
opportunities for innovation as you
develop products to meet the needs
of international customers. It even
enhances credibility and provides
financial stability.
There is absolutely no reason why small businesses cannot export successfully. British brands are well respected overseas, and being a small and flexible business can be a real advantage in many sectors, which is why more and more smaller companies are deciding to export every year.
Whether you want to export goods to increase turnover or to spread your risk, or import goods that will help reduce your costs, there is a wealth of advice and information available to help you get started.
Who can help?Once you’ve made the decision to export or import there are three main organisations that offer support, training and advice: UK Trade and Investment, the British Chambers of Commerce and the Institute of Export. Gov.uk is also a good source of online information.
Small businesses need not be cut off from the global
marketplace or feel that international business is only for big companies.
In fact, for many smaller firms, trading abroad can
be the path to greater success and growthSusan Haird, Acting Chief Executive
UK Trade & Investment
Did you know…
The UK is the world’s 10th largest exporter of goods and services
90% of UKTI’s customers are SMEs
The UK is the 6th largest importer of merchandise
Exports account for nearly 30% of the UK’s GDP
In the last 12 months UKTI has helped around 25,000 businesses to export
Sources: UK Trade & Investment, World Trade Organisation
Exports account for 60 per cent of UK productivity growth and provide genuine benefits for British SMEs. Research shows that firms which export increase their productivity by nearly 35 per cent in the first year alone. They achieve stronger financial performance and are 11 per cent more likely to stay in business.
Mark Prisk, Business and Enterprise Minister
In an increasingly competitive and international world, trade and investment are ever more critical to Britain’s
economic success.
Stephen Green, UK Minister for Trade and Investment
UK Trade & Investment
UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) works with businesses throughout the UK to help them enter international markets. The organisation is well set up to assist small businesses and SMEs account for 90 per cent of UKTI’s custom. With offices all over the country, UKTI’s International Trade Advisors can provide sector-specific advice about trading internationally, along with tailored support for your business.
Through the Passport to Export programme you can access expert help and advice. Your business will be assessed for readiness and likely success, you’ll receive professional mentoring and training as you prepare to enter your chosen market, and ongoing support once your business is trading internationally.
UKTI also leads delegations to visit overseas markets, with the opportunity to meet buyers and start developing relationships. There are also grants available that enable businesses to exhibit at overseas trade shows – a great opportunity to test markets, build awareness and generate sales.
For more details visit www.ukti.gov.uk or call 020 7215 8000.
Regional contacts
London Shand House, 14-20 Shand Street, London SE1 2ES Tel: 0207 234 [email protected]
South East Unit 10, Fulcrum 2 Solent Way, Whiteley, Fareham PO15 7FNTel: 0845 278 [email protected]
South WestLeigh Court, Abbots Leigh, Bristol BS8 3RATel: 0845 606 [email protected]
East of England Bishops Square Business Park, Hatfield Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Tel: 0845 641 9955 Email: [email protected]
East Midlands Innovation House, Raynesway, Derby DE21 7BF Tel: 0845 052 4001Email: [email protected]
North East Regional International Trade Office, Spectrum 6, Spectrum Business Park, Seaham R7 7TT Tel: 0845 050 [email protected]
North West Warren Bruce Court, Warren Bruce Road, Trafford Park M17 1LBTel: 0845 603 [email protected]
Yorkshire 1 Capitol Court, Capitol Business Park, Dodworth, Barnsley S75 3TZ Tel: 0845 604 [email protected]
Companies around the world like the British business ethos. We have a reputation for honesty, reliability, open-handedness and the willingness to work in partnership with people.
Doug Mahoney, International Trade DirectorUK Trade & Investment
The rewards of international business can catapult a [small] company into becoming a large one very quickly indeed.
Susan Haird, Acting Chief Executive
UK Trade & Investment
British Chambers of Commerce
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is the national body for a network of 56 accredited Chambers of Commerce throughout the UK. With over 100,000 business members nationally, every Chamber plays a central role in its local business community. There are regular networking events throughout the year designed to help you develop local contacts and grow your business. Many Chambers have also embraced social media to help you keep in touch with what’s happening locally.
Accredited Chambers possess international trade expertise and will be able to help you overcome trade barriers and understand all the rules and regulations associated with entering overseas markets. Importantly, the International Trade teams can produce your export documentation, including Certificates of Origin and ATA Carnets. This service is available to members and non-members.
Find your local accredited Chamber of Commerce by visitingwww.britishchambers.org.uk
International trade has a vital role
to play in the re-balancing of the
UK economy.
David Frost, Director General,
British Chambers of Commerce
The Institute of Export
The Institute of Export represents and supports the interests of everyone involved in importing, exporting and international trade. Membership of this professional body offers a unique range of benefits, including an internationally recognised suite of qualifications and training and the Continuing Professional Development programme – all of which are designed to develop knowledge, skills and techniques. IOE members also receive regular updates, newsletters and a magazine, providing up-to-date information on trading overseas. A range of events are held locally and nationally throughout the year.
Find out more about the IOE by visiting www.export.org.uk
Regional Contacts
London Andy Gibson [email protected]
Southern Graham Card [email protected]
Coventry & South Midlands Brian McLaughlin [email protected]
South West Geoff Coates [email protected]
North West Anthony Pierce [email protected]
Wales John Power [email protected]
Mid Wessex & Thames Valley Blair Coutts [email protected]
Wessex Rob Lewis [email protected]
Northern Ireland Vera McWilliams [email protected]
Scotland Maureen Munro [email protected]
North East Lesley Batchelor [email protected]
East of England Graham Jones [email protected]
We are a very globally engaged country. World trade was made for
Britain. We engage like no other country.
Lord Digby Jones, former Director General Confederation of British Industry
gov.uk
Gov.uk replaces the old Business Link website, providing a simpler, clearer and faster way to locate free information and advice about importing and exporting. A comprehensive international trade section features helpful tools and easy-to-understand practical guides thatwill help you understand key aspects of ‘going global’. From researching potential markets and help understanding Incoterms® (International Commercial Terms) to protecting your intellectual property rights, it’s all there – and easier to find than ever before.
Visit www.gov.uk for more information.
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Issue 2 / February 2011
Details contained in this document are to the best of our knowledge correct at the time of publishing.
